Tent camping in the Youngstown, Florida area offers diverse options from coastal settings to inland forest experiences. The region experiences mild winters with temperatures rarely dropping below 40°F and hot, humid summers often exceeding 90°F. Most primitive camping areas require advance reservations during peak seasons (March-August), with forest service roads sometimes becoming challenging after rainfall.
What to do
Water activities at Eastern Lake: Point Washington State Forest provides lake access for paddling enthusiasts. A reviewer at Eastern Lake Campground 2 noted, "I had a beautiful view of Eastern Lake and easy access to the water where there is a small dock. Great place to launch a canoe or kayak."
Military recreation access: Active duty and veterans can take advantage of activities near Raptor Ranch at Tyndall AFB. "It's close to Tyndall AFB and the Tyndall marina where you can rent kayaks, canoes, pontoon boats, jet skis, bikes, and more," explains one camper, adding it's "about a 15 minute drive from Walmart, Win Dixie, and a slew of restaurants."
Biking trails: The Point Washington trail system offers options for cyclists of various abilities. Eastern Lake Campground features "three hiking trail options on the Eastern Lake bike/hike trial. The hiker or bicyclist can travel the 3.5-, 5- or 10-mile loop," according to one visitor.
What campers like
Lakeside camping convenience: Campers appreciate the ease of water access at Eastern Lake Campground 2. A visitor reported, "Great primitive camping with several spots on the water in camping area 2. Has a 'outhouse' no running water or hookups in the primitive camping area. Roads are easy to travel in a sedan."
Beach proximity: Many campers value the easy access to Gulf beaches. At El Governor Motel & RV Park, "You can walk across the street to the beach. The sunsets are beautiful! The bath house and laundry room is always spotless," according to one reviewer.
Solitude opportunities: The chance for quiet camping draws many to the area. At Point Washington State Forest, one camper shared, "It was so quiet there and we were the only ones at the campground, we enjoyed the peace and quiet, and the alone time."
What you should know
Post-hurricane rebuilding: Several campgrounds continue recovering from Hurricane Michael. At El Governor Motel & RV Park, a camper noted, "The Park is open, good access to the beach but not much for park looks."
Road conditions: Forest access roads can present challenges. One camper at Point Washington warned, "I will say that the mud holes are huge and you definitely don't want to take a small car through it, that's the only downfall."
Reservation requirements: Many primitive sites require advance planning. For Point Washington State Forest, "The primitive campsites, which require reservations through the ReserveAmerica system, can be accessed via forest roads 11 or 2 from U.S. Highway 98."
Gate codes: Security measures are in place at some locations. A camper noted that at Point Washington, there is a "code to lock on gate when you go in. No amenities but 1 pit toilet."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for potential wildlife encounters. At Point Washington, one camper observed, "Signs for active bears but we saw none."
Beach day planning: Schedule beach visits to complement tent camping. At Cotton Landing, campers find "no drama and bathrooms were decent," though they should "get fire wood along the dirt road on your way in to avoid the ticks and sticker bushes."
Insect preparation: Pack appropriate bug protection for different seasons. One camper at Cotton Landing warned about ticks being "definitely out at this campsite but only in the woods."
Noise considerations: Be aware of potential noise from nearby establishments. At Eastern Lake Campground 2, a camper reported, "We stayed at campground 2 site 3, a stone's throw across the lake from the Old Florida Fish House. You can definitely hear the music coming from there."
Tips from RVers
Site proximity: Expect close quarters in some RV parks. At El Governor, "This is a very small campground where you park very close together. The park is very clean. No shade. Full hookups. Bath and showers and laundry."
Military discounts: Veterans should inquire about special rates. At Raptor Ranch at Tyndall AFB, "The campground doesn't have as much shade or as many trees as it had before the hurricane in 2018, but it is back open for business and is a great place for military and veterans to park their campers short or long term."
Beach security: Consider valuables security at beach-adjacent sites. One RVer at El Governor noted they "were a little concerned as our lot backed up to the road and there was no security we could see. Gates open 24-7, but had no issues."
