Discover the best forest campgrounds near Fort Walton Beach, Florida

United States
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Florida
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Fort Walton Beach

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12 top forest campgrounds near Fort Walton Beach

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The Wandering Path

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents21 acres · Milton, FL

Located 20 minutes north of downtown Milton, FL, The Wandering Path is a serene escape, offering a unique blend of untouched natural beauty and comfortable accommodations. With 2000 feet of waterfront along the picturesque Coldwater Creek, this nature retreat is a world away from the hustle and bustle of city life, set within a sprawling 20-acre landscape. Accommodations at The Wandering Path are designed for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Four glamping tents, equipped with real full-size beds, portable AC for summer, heaters for winter, and essential amenities, ensure a comfortable stay amidst nature. Each tent is adorned with solar string lights, and outdoor essentials like a picnic table, fire pit ring, small charcoal grill, and trash can are provided. For those who prefer a more raw connection with nature, four primitive campsites are available, each equipped with solar string lights, a fire pit ring, and a trash can. A hike-in site with a picnic table is also an option for adventurers. Guests have access to a centrally located bathhouse with two full bathrooms, ensuring comfort and convenience. There is now an outdoor kitchen for all guests to use. There is no cookware, silverware or dishes. There is a counter-top oven, toaster, 2 stove top burners, 1 flat top griddle, sink and keurig coffee maker. There are reusable k-cups for you to put your own coffee in, or your own k-cups. The property boasts 2000 feet of trails alongside the creek, perfect for hiking and exploring the natural surroundings. Kayak rentals are available for guests with appropriate vehicles, and fishing enthusiasts are welcome to cast their lines into the spring-fed creek. At The Wandering Path, nights come alive under a starlit sky, unblemished by city lights, making every evening perfect for a campfire. It’s more than just a stay; it’s an experience of tranquility, a chance to recharge amidst nature’s embrace. We look forward to becoming your go-to spot when you’re in need of recharging. We are less than 1 hour from Pensacola and Navarre beaches, 15-20 minutes to local grocery stores and restaurants. At this time, no pets or children under 12 are allowed in yurts. ***All pets do require prior approval to maintain the safety of other guests.

Bay Forest Retreat

7 sites · Lodging, Tents11 acres · Navarre, FL

Explore 11+ acres of rustic and untamed woods. We are two military veteran families who enjoy the land as a place for family and friends to explore, camp, and relax at the 250+ feet of the East Bay beach. Primitive camping is permitted at designated wooded high grounds in the middle of the property. It is a 5 and 10-minute rugged hike in to the middle ground and waterfront, respectively. The trail remains under development, so please bring close-toed shoes or boots for hiking throughout the property (depending on rainfall, there may be mud and water). Our Glamper is a 10x12 canvas furnished tent located a short but rugged 2-minute hike from parking. It provides the opportunity to go camping without having to pack all the gear. Our location is minutes from the Emerald Coast - 7 mins to Navarre Beach, - 30 mins to Pensacola Beach, - 15 mins to Naval Live Oaks, - 45 mins to Fort Pickens, - 50 mins to NAS Pensacola, - 45 mins to Santa Rosa Island, - 35 mins to Okaloosa Island, - 40 mins to Destin. Recommended local restaurants: St. Michael's Brewery which has rotating food trucks and is family friendly, Ye Olde Brothers Brewery, Dewey Destin’s, Windjammers, TC’s Front Porch, Deb’s Coffee, The Eatery food truck park, Top’s Burgers, and New York Pizza Depot. Other sightseeing in the area includes: Museums: National Naval Aviation Museum, Air Force Armament Museum, Fort Pickens, Indian Temple Mound Museum, Pensacola Museum of Art, Museum of Industry, and Destin History & Fishing Museum Additional activities include: Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center, HH Arts Gallery, Emerald Coast Science Center, Gulf Breeze Zoo, and Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park.

Malakai 🏕 different by design

6 sites · Lodging, Tents12 acres · Milton, FL

Welcome to Malakai campgrounds different by design 🏕 I purchased this land several years ago after a loss of a child a daughter her named was (little jo) JoLisa Marie Roadcap , it was a life changing moment, teaching me that family and enjoying of life is what it all about... so I want to welcome you here to Malakai for a peaceful and relaxing time, it's even a place that may help you heal from life hardships... At 5:30 just as the Sun comes up it is time for you to go out on to the deck and listen to the birds song 🎵 . As the Sun starts to rise on a new day ✨️ dozens of species of birds from the Great American Bald Eagle , To the endangered woodpecker, The blue herrings, bluebirds(we have mating pair that comes every year) blue jays, mocking birds, doves and several other species and occasionally a couple small black bears like walking through, we want you to have a peaceful and relaxing stay here while you visit everything,here at Garson Point were several species of carnivorous plants grow wild and our beaches have much to offer. It's official -- after 4 years of politics we are officially a park and a preserve.....9 acres of 🚶‍♂️ trails 👣 we are still constructing trails by hand I believe this place has a spiritual strength to people of all nations History of our location Count De Galvez awarded a land grant on Garcon Point to Antonio Garzon following his 1781 Siege of Pensacola in consideration of “his good services rendered as an interpreter to the Indians of Pensacola." The grant was held for 35 years before Maria Garzon, who survived husband Antonio, sold the land they called Garzon’s Point to Joseph (Jose) Bonifay. The land uses were favorable for cattle grazing and turpentining through the 1800s. Many more pioneer families moved into the area and began their own business in the booming industrial opportunities of western Florida. It came to be known as Yellow River Marsh State Buffer Preserve on June 12, 2000, when it was purchased by the state of Florida to protect rare and environmentally sensitive lands, plants and animals. Through generous donations, Preservation 2000 and the Florida Forever Program, more land was added to protect contiguous habitat of the Garcon Ecosystem. Today Yellow River Marsh Preserve State Park provides recreational opportunities for hiking and nature study along the Great Florida Birding Trail among rare and endemic plant species and within one of Florida’s oldest multi-cultural frontiers.The preserve is located in Santa Rosa County on Garcon Point, which separates Escambia Bay from Blackwater Bay. Nearly 20 rare and endangered species of plants 🪴 and animals make their homes along the bay and its wet prairies, dome swamps and flatwoods.

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Gateway Trails

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents14 acres · Holt, FL

Wooded, FHU, tent and Glamping Sites! - Welcome to Gateway Trails! Our site offers a place to stay as a gateway to Destin, Okaloosa Island, Pensacola Beaches and waterways, or to the expansive local activities in the Blackwater State Forest and surrounding rivers, including hiking, hunting, canoeing, and kayaking! We have: 3 FHU Sites - Water, electric, and Sewer at each site. (One 50 AMP + Two 30 AMP sites); Boondocking Site, Primitive Site, and Glamping in our refurbished 2003 Dutchman Camper. The site is on fully fenced in 14 acres. The campsites are behind a natural barrier of trees that offer privacy. Though we are a peaceful setting, there are neighbors beyond the fence and you may hear donkeys braying, roosters crowing, cows mooting, or dogs sounding off to deer moving around in the woods of the state forest. There are well maintained walking/biking/hiking trails are on the property, with many shaded sections. Porta potty on site for our tent campers and boondockers, but coming soon - a bathroom house w/ flush toilet! Our Sites: Red Oak Nook has 50 AMP power and we have an available converter from 50 AMP to 30 AMP. Go Bull's Landing and Long Leaf Landing both have a 30 AMP power hookup. We also offer Cozy Camper at Long Leaf Landing for an amazing "glamping" experience with A/C, microwave, refrigerator, and RV bathroom & shower! We also have a primitive site and Boondocking site. A large spacious boondocking/tent site and a walk in primitive site! Something for everyone! We are pet friendly! Though pets need to be on a leash outside of your site. Follow us on Instagram @gatewaytrails850 or Facebook Gateway Trails to see more details about the campsite and surrounding area. Check out below how far we are from some area Points of Interests! *3 miles to Baker or Holt, Fl for grocery, restaurants, dollar generals *7 min drive from I-10 Holt Exit (Exit 45) *1.9 miles to Bone Creek Recreation Area *5 miles to secluded Blackwater River access point (this route does require dirt road rough terrain access). *2.0 Miles to South Laurel Farms Florida Wedding Venue *40 Miles to Destin via Mid-Bay bridge *35 Miles to Pensacola, Fl *50 Miles to Pensacola Beach, Fl *Not far from Hwy 189 South as you travel to Destin, Florida from Alabama *And if you are coming from Texas, Louisiana, or North Georgia & Alabama we are a great ½ point to Walt Disney World or Tampa!

Ellis Farms

25 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Holt, FL

Come join us in the heart of the beautiful Blackwater Forest. We are less than 10 minutes from many nature trails for hiking and a crystal-clear creek for swimming. If you’re seeking to step away from the hustle and bustle of life and relax, we welcome you to our little spot we call home. We warmly welcome all big groups. Please be respectful to the campers around you. Our location: 20 minutes to Crestview 45 minutes to Pensacola 1 hour and 15 minutes from Pensacola Beach 40 minutes to Navarre Beach

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Country near the Beach

2 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Pensacola, FL

The property is 3.29 acres. Surrounded on 3 sides by thick trees. The front of the property is open and great for letting the dogs run around. The back of the property has a pond and dock fed by a creek that is great to swim in that also feeds a major bayou in Pensacola Bay. Perfect for a kayak, canoe of paddle board trip. And also has about .75 acres of thick wooded area for a great forest feel on the property. Only one 50 Amp connection but if you have a generator or are tent canping I have many locations to camp

Apple Hill Cabins and Camp Ground

36 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · AL

Associated on 40 acres. Adjacent to Conecuh and Blackwater National forests. Five RV pads, areas for primitive camping. Two Rustic Cabins with bath and showers. Amenities include fishponds,( no license required, no catch limit). Ponds have bass, brim, catfish and tilapia. Access to Blackwater River for swimming, canoeing, tubing or Kayaking. Hunting allowed in National Forests in season with license, skinning rack available on site. only 45 miles from the beach camp or stay in cabins an drive to the beach and save a $$$$$$ drive or pull your big rvs and leave them in goods hands to you return for your next vacation

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Lake City Campground

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents22 acres · Florala, AL

Just a 10-minute drive to Lake Jackson, Alabama’s only natural lake, this peaceful camping retreat is the perfect place for families to relax and enjoy nature. Positioned in the city of Florala, this campground is a combination of Florida Sunshine and Alabama heritage making it a valuable repository of outdoor activities and perfect for the history-seeking enthusiast. This veteran-owned and operated campground provides a place where family time is revisited with games and campfire stories. Memories can be made in only a short drive for shaded picnics on the beaches of Florala State Park, exploring the peaceful downtown antique shops, or just a shaded stroll through 21+ acres of nature located right outside your door. This location is also an affordable destination for visiting the beaches of Destin, Ft. Walton, or Navarre. Being just an hour drive away, you can spend time enjoying the refreshing salt air, and then return to the campground for some time to relax in the serenity of nature.

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Larry & Sheila's Blackwater Getaway

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Wing, AL

WEDDINGS, Vow Renewals, Special Anniversary, Family Reunion, Large Parties? Enjoy It All River Side With Rustic But Elegant Vibes. One Of The Host Is An Ordained Minister; The Other Host Is An Event Planner/ Designer. Different Package Options Are Available. Come Plan Your Special Day with Us. Two Month Minimum Notice on Booking If You Wish for Hosts to Plan/Decorate for Your Event. 50 Guest Maximum. Two Night Minimum Booking For Event. $2300 Covers Reservation Of Property, Decorations and Cleanup. Food Packages, DJ.'s ETC Will Be Additional According To Your Individual Needs. This listing will accommodate Two Full 30 Amp RV Hookups for Your Wedding Party with Lots of Extra Space to Pitch a Tent and Park Your Guests. Cabin and Additional RV Site Coming Now Available. Check Out Our Other Listings For More Details.

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The Red Barn

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Crestview, FL

Nestled on 3 acres right next to blackwater national forest & yellow river management area. Lots of swimming, kayaking, fishing, hunting! Hunters delight! Also less than a hour drive to local beaches! Pensacola, Navarre, Ft. Walton! We offer kayaks on site for a small fee! There’s also several swimming areas on Blackwater river close by as well!

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Travel Downs RV Park

1 site · RV2 acres · Pensacola, FL

Private 2 acre property with 20x40 concrete pad with custom fire pit. Half of Property is cleared with woods surrounding it, gated entrance. Custom shed with washer/dryer, toilet, sink, shower and tankless water heater. Located 10min from perdido key beach’s and Johnson beach national seashore.

Saved 43 times

Rosie’s at Natural Bridge

4 sites · RVs10 acres · Defuniak Springs, FL

10 acres located in the beautiful wilderness of Northwest Florida.Learn more about this land:10 beautiful secluded acres with tons of old oaks. Cypress wetlands within walking distance. Only 10 minutes from gorgeous Lake Jackson in Florala, Alabama and 25 minutes to beautiful Lake Defuniak and historic Defuniak Springs. Tons of little lakes tucked all around area great for fishing or kayaking. Great place to enjoy wildlife. Near historic Defuniak Springs, Florida and about an hour and a half to Panama City Beach. Many sites for tent camping and RVs are welcome too, though there is no hookup at this time.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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(11)

Henderson Beach State Park

Destin, Florida

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(6)

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park

Miramar Beach, Florida

Grayton is a beautiful secluded beach front.

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(8)

Grayton Beach State Park

Miramar Beach, Florida

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(2)

Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park

Niceville, Florida

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(4)

Blackwater River State Park

Harold, Florida

Conecuh National Forest

Carolina, Alabama

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Forest camping near Fort Walton Beach guide

Overview

Florida’s panhandle is home to Fort Walton Beach, which is flanked by Santa Rosa Sound and Choctawhatchee Bay. Campers can swim, boat, fish, mountain bike, and explore one-of-a-kind natural occurrences close by—find cave systems, sinkholes, and stalactites at Florida Caverns State Park and a rare coastal dune lake in Deer Lake State Park. Camping options range from high-end RV resorts with all the amenities to primitive backcountry camping. Equestrian campers can also find access to designated trails and stables for their horses at Florida Caverns State Park. And furnished rental cabins await campers just across the Alabama state border in Little River State Forest.

Where to go

Florida Caverns State Park

About 100 miles northeast of Fort Walton Beach, rainwater eroded bedrock for eons, creating the limestone cave system of Florida Caverns State Park. Open year-round (but closing each day at sunset), the park offers guided cave tours among sinkholes, stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones—just show up early, since tour tickets are first-come, first-served and sell out fast. Hipcampers can also enjoy bicycling, hiking, and boating on Chipola River. Stay nearby at pet-friendly tent and RV campsites with 50-amp hookups.

Little River State Forest, AL

Northwest of Fort Walton Beach, just across the border to Alabama, sits Little River State Forest. Hipcampers will find 2,100 acres of longleaf pine and a man-made dam and spillway that created Little River Lake—perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating (rentals available in the park). Little River State Forest has RV and tent campsites with electric and water hookups and primitive, backcountry camping anywhere in the park. Ride a horse through gorgeous pine forests, slide down the spillway, or look for quail and bobcats during the day, then retire to a furnished cabin at night.

Deer Lake State Park

Deer Lake is a rare landscape formation of coastal dune lakes. In Deer Lake State Park, campers explore growths of Gulf Coast lupine, spoonflower, and pitcher plants all while witnessing the migration of birds and butterflies. Three dollars per vehicle in the honor box allows campers to stroll the boardwalk across the dunes to find the perfect picnic, swimming, or fishing spot in warm Gulf waters. There’s no camping in the park, but campsite options nearby include pet-friendly RV campsites with potable water on pull-in and back-in concrete pads, dirt pads, and grassy fields.

When to go

Summers at Fort Walton Beach last from May to the end of September, with the temperature averaging 85°F. Expect cloudy skies, increased rainfall, and high humidity. During spring and fall, temperatures usually stay around 65°F and drop no lower than 45°F. Many campers may prefer to camp from September to October or April to May to avoid the humidity, but lots of campsites and resorts are open year-round.