Sue H.
Scout
ScoutHenderson Beach State Park Campground
We stayed in Loop A, site 7. Sites are big, level, and secluded. Concrete sidewalk to beach boardwalk, which is also private. Bathrooms are clean and modern.
Camping near Vernon, FL
13 campgrounds with availability this weekend
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Camping near Vernon, FL spans developed state park sites with electric and water hookups to primitive forest service camps along wooded waterways. Falling Waters State Park, located just 15 miles northwest in Chipley, features Florida's tallest waterfall and provides developed campsites with electric and water hookups. Within a 30-minute drive, campers can access Sand Pond Campground in Pine Log State Forest and Cotton Landing, which offers more primitive camping experiences along waterways. The region balances RV-friendly destinations with tent camping areas, many situated near lakes or within forested settings that provide natural shade and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Florida state parks in this region typically require reservations up to 11 months in advance, especially for popular destinations. As one camper noted about Falling Waters, "Home to the tallest waterfall in Florida. Easy to park, level sight, quick access to I-10 but very quiet." Forest roads accessing more remote sites can become challenging during wet weather, with several reviewers cautioning against attempting these routes in standard passenger vehicles. Summer brings high humidity and temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, while winter offers milder conditions ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. Hurricane season (June through November) occasionally impacts camping availability and conditions.
Natural features distinguish many campgrounds in the area, with several sites offering access to swimming holes, fishing spots, and paddling opportunities. Florida Caverns State Park, approximately 30 miles northeast of Vernon, provides a unique camping experience near the state's only publicly accessible cave system. According to a visitor, "The campsites are very nice with good bathroom facilities. The swimming hole rocks and the water is crystal clear." Campgrounds closer to the Gulf Coast, about an hour south, feature access to the region's famous white-sand beaches. Bathroom and shower facilities vary significantly between developed state parks and more primitive forest service campgrounds, with the latter sometimes offering only basic amenities.
Best Campgrounds near Vernon (125)
1. Falling Waters State Park Campground
"Home to the tallest waterfall in Florida. Easy to park, level sight, quick access to I-10 but very quiet."
"Falling Waters boasts Florida's largest waterfall and in the wet season it is a sight to be seen!"
1 Site AvailableAvailable this weekend
from $18 / night
2. Sand Pond Campground — Pine Log State Forest
"Far enough away from the hustle and bustle of the beach areas but close enough to enjoy them just the same."
"In site 3 we had a great view of the river and easy access to the hiking trails! If you like primitive camping, this place is the way to go."
1 Site AvailableAvailable this weekend
from $23 / night
3. Outback Springs RV Resort
"Outback Springs RV Park in Bonifay Florida is one beautiful place."
"A beautiful new pool, hot tub and outside lounge are available. The pool and surrounding area was clean and well kept."
Check Availabilityfrom $54 - $66 / night
4. Cotton Landing
5. Lakeview Campsites
"Lakeview Campsites have access to a huge lake and several other places to visit nearby. Check them out and share some pictures of your stay!"
Check Availabilityfrom $60 - $120 / night
6. Hitchinpost RV Park and Campground
"We were here for an overnight stop on the way back to Florida. The owner is great and we had a pull through site so we didn't have to unhook."
"It is close to the highway so there is a little noise."
Check Availabilityfrom $30 - $45 / night
7. St. Andrews State Park Campground
"A little less “outdoor feeling” than other Florida state parks but very comfortable. The park itself is great with an amazing beach."
"Clean and peaceful and beautiful walking trails and easy access to the beach. Beautiful sunsets on the beach."
7 Sites AvailableAvailable this weekend
from $28 / night
8. dead river landing
9. Southern Grace Lavender Farm
Check AvailabilityAvailable this weekend
from $45 - $55 / night
10. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground
"My wife and I are frequent campers in NW Florida and Alabama. Topsail is certainly one of our favorites. Excellent access to the beach, hiking, biking (many miles), lakes, great campground. "
"Beautiful beach, trees between paved spots, bike path, cute coffee shop on site, bike rentals, & a great location!"
11 Sites AvailableAvailable this weekend
from $24 - $130 / night
Drive Time
- 39 min from Panama City, FL
- 50 min from Crestview, FL
- 54 min from Dothan, AL
- 1 hr 24 min from Tallahassee, FL
Recent Camping Photos near Vernon, FL
107 Photos of 125 Vernon Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Holmes Creek Camping & RV Resort
dead river landingT
My Father's Sanctuary
Tom Johns Landingh
Falling Waters State Park Campgroundb
Blue Spring Recreation AreaK
Sand Pond Campground — Pine Log State Forest
Pine Lake RV ParkB
Hidden Cypress Farm LLC
Up the Creek RV Resort
Retroville 1960s-70 Drive In Movie/TV Themed RV ParkD
Blue Hole Campground — Florida Caverns State Park
Recent Reviews near Vernon, FL
658 Reviews of 125 Vernon Campgrounds
- Sue H.Scout
defuniak springs free camping
Directions on the dirt AND Google take you to an outdated, run down housing complex that's really sketchy looking. No campsite, bathroom, etc there.
ashley R.
GuideSt. Andrews State Park Campground
Heaven on earth!
- ashley R.Guide
Stay n Go RV Resort
Full hook ups, big rig friendly. The hosts were extremely helpful and nice. Laundry room was great $2 a load with 2 washers and 2 dryers. Perfect stop to re group. Great location near gas, groceries and clothing stores
C H.ScoutCampOut Alabama
After almost seven years at Campout Alabama, I’ve stayed quiet about why I left. But watching one of the owners publicly boast about “new money” while remembering what went on behind the scenes is too much to swallow.
I remember credit cards declining when we needed supplies for his own business. I remember us practically begging for chlorine for the pool. I remember power lines in pine trees and box fans being used to cool breaker panels. That’s what comes to mind when I see the displays of wealth.
A mansion doesn’t impress me when the people keeping your business running are asking for basic supplies and payment. Bragging about wealth under those circumstances is embarrassing.
Before delivering another speech about “new money,” try explaining why the basics were such a struggle. Chlorine. Supplies. Paying people for their work. These are basic responsibilities of owning a business.
I cannot recommend Campout Alabama under this ownership. Almost seven years gave me plenty of time to form that opinion, and no amount of bragging changes what I experienced and so many others experience!
Lorilee S.
LegendThree Rivers State Park Campground
This has to be one of the most peaceful campgrounds we’ve been to. It’s very quiet and dark at night. The bathhouse was really clean and spacious. Our site is perfect with unobstructed water views. We were able to do the trails and ride our bikes on the road.
We stopped at the entrance, but no one was in there. Luckily a nice gentleman was coming in and said for us to follow him in. Rangers are at another office within the campground from 9:00-9:30 and 4:00-4:30. We went over in the afternoon to check in.
- BBuckee B.Scout
Lakeview Campsites
Beautiful lake, misleading ad
Just be forewarned this is NOT a normal camping experience. By far.
Firstly, there are no actual accommodations as advertised. The "camping" you will experience consists of no primitive sites, no RV hookups, no amenities to speak of, and many other inconsistencies despite what's being presented here. There are no private areas even for changing your clothes much less anything else. As it sits beside a major county roadway with a public boat ramp with roadside public parking making any chance of alone time impossible most days. You CANNOT per county ordinances have any unregulated fires or burning due to the lake being EPA protected. If you get caught disturbing any of the flora or fauna you are subject to possible fines or prosecution by FWC. Not one stump is to be disturbed at all. The advertisement is misleading regarding this property. For the amount of money being charged you may as well go a few more miles and get a room at a motel. It would be cheaper if you did. I gave two stars because of the lake itself. Which BTW, is NOT actually "visible " from this property itself. The best viewing and admiring is better at the PUBLIC areas that are county owned and somewhat maintained. The lake itself is public use for everyone. Not to mention that this property owner has a negative reputation for shady practices in the local area. Any observations of illegal practices should be reported to law enforcement. - WWilliam P.
TravelerFlorida Caverns RV Resort
Observant Non-Guest
So we didn't actually stay here. We were at another campsite that was 30 minutes away with higher reviews. However, we stopped by to check this place out on our way to the Florida Caverns and we really wished we would of stayed here! This place was amazing. And the convenience of the gas station and corner store in walking distance plus all of the activities they had for kids. We surely would of enjoyed this place. And the view of the water and ability to fish and kayak were an added plus. Our kids were disappointed in me for not choosing this one. Definently keeping it saved for the next time we go though. And it was only 10 minutes from the Florida Caverns and close to several stores and not to far off Highway 10. There was plenty of spots and cabins when we went in October and spacious and not over-crowded.
- WWilliam P.Traveler
Alliance Hill RV Resort
50 Over RV resort
Think The Dyrt forgot to mention that this site is for 50 years and older. My family and I were effected by Hurricane Isaias and were looking for a RV resort that hadn't lost power. We explained the situation to the resort manager and although we are in our 40s with 3 kids, they were very welcoming of us and so friendly. Mr. Glen, the owner, was a great person and I shared great conversation with him about his life. The view from the resort is amazing. Acres of land in a sloping hillside with gorgeous sunrises and sunsets. Small 4ft pool and very spacious and clean bathrooms and clubhouse. It SOOOO peaceful and quiet out here . I went along a trail that they have to read and watch the sunrise and was welcomed by deers that roam the land. This was a very gorgeous spot and I'll likely return in 9 years after I hit the age requirements to enjoy again😁. But we were so grateful for them being so accomodating given our circumstance.
Guide to Vernon
Camping spots near Vernon, Florida often feature varying terrain from piney woods to swampy lowlands. The area sits within Holmes County where elevations range from about 40 to 120 feet above sea level. Sites near freshwater springs stay cooler in summer, while inland locations experience temperatures sometimes reaching 100°F with high humidity during peak months.
What to do
Waterfall viewing: 15-minute hike at Falling Waters State Park Campground takes you to Florida's highest waterfall, though water flow varies with rainfall. One camper notes, "The hike trails are not that exciting with little to no reward at the end. There is a tiny 'waterfall' but not something that's gonna make you say wow once you get to it."
Freshwater swimming: Clear natural pools near Blue Spring Recreation Area provide relief from summer heat. The spring is a short walk from campsites. "Site #1. May. No one else there. Pretty hot during the day - 90s and around 70 at night. But the spring is about a 5 min walk and one can swim whenever."
Canoe rental: 45-minute drive to Econfina Creek offers paddling through multiple springs. As one visitor to Falling Waters mentioned, "Highly recommend the 45-minute drive to Econfina creek, we rented a canoe and did the 8-miles to see 7 springs."
What campers like
Private camping spots: Secluded sites at Pine Log State Forest offer peaceful surroundings away from crowds. "There are 2 different camps in the forest. Sand pond, which has hookups for water and electric, very nice, well maintained and enjoyable. Then there is Primitive camping - absolutely the best way to reconnect with nature."
Wildlife viewing: Early morning deer sightings common in several parks. At St. Andrews State Park, campers report, "The deer around were practically tame." The park also features "lots of birds for birdwatching" according to visitors at Falling Waters.
Free camping options: No-cost sites at Cotton Landing require advance reservations. "Real nice campground that is free by reservation only, book at camplife.com. Three small spots that are ideal for smaller setups or tents. The sites are pretty close together, but each has it's own pavilion, fire ring, grill and trash can."
What you should know
Seasonal flooding affects accessibility: Several campgrounds including Cotton Landing and Blue Spring may become inaccessible during wet seasons. "This campground does flood so be mindful of that when planning a visit."
Limited cell coverage: Service varies widely between campgrounds. At Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, "T Mobile is 4 bars," while other locations may have spotty service.
Reservation lead times vary: Some locations require booking months ahead, others accept same-day arrivals. For primitive sites at Pine Log State Forest, one camper advised, "There are only three primitive camping sites out here and they are very secluded. In site 3 we had a great view of the river and easy access to the hiking trails!"
Sand and dirt road access: Many campgrounds require driving on unpaved roads. At Sand Pond, "We have about 1 mile of dirt road to get here. Some campsites can be tight if you have a big rig. Within the past year, they have removed some trees to make it easier to maneuver in the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming: Protected areas at St. Andrews State Park provide safer water access. "A special treat for the kids each year is the white tailed deer walking through the sites and the bike ride over to the 'Kiddie Pool' at the jetties."
Nature exploration: Short, manageable trails for children at multiple parks. "The hiking trails were small but very nice, great for walking the dog" noted one visitor to Falling Waters.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife spotting becomes a learning experience. The park "has interpretive center" and "wildlife viewing is good" according to recent campers.
Open play spaces: Several campgrounds feature open areas for games and activities. At Sand Pond, sites are "spacious and well set up" with some adjacent to "open field area, which would be great for kiddos who want room to spread out and play games."
Tips from RVers
Levelness matters: Most campgrounds have some leveling challenges. At Falling Waters, "Sites are level gravel with a picnic table, fire ring, and even a handy towel-drying rack."
Off-season visits recommended: Lower humidity and temperatures make winter camping more comfortable. "Summer brings high humidity and temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, while winter offers milder conditions."
Alternative options for mechanical issues: Local repair services are available if needed. At Hitchinpost RV Park, one camper shared, "Convenient and big rig friendly. There are goats. It is close to the highway so there is a little noise."
Access limitations: Size restrictions apply at several locations. "Not a very good spot for huge rigs or big fifth wheels unless you are a master at tight turns and backing in" reports a camper at Blue Spring Recreation Area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Vernon, FL?
What camping is available near Vernon, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Vernon, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 125 campgrounds and RV parks near Vernon, FL and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Vernon, FL?
Which is the most popular campground near Vernon, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Vernon, FL is Falling Waters State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 29 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Vernon, FL?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Vernon, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Vernon, FL.
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