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.
