Brian K.
Guide
GuideSt. Andrews State Park Campground
Tops in my book
This campground has three camp stores, beaches, fishing, snorkeling, boat ramp, cafe and bike paths. All roads and bike paths are paved. Lots of wild life.
Best Campgrounds near Bristol, FL
The camping landscape around Bristol, Florida encompasses several distinct areas ranging from state parks to riverside retreats. Torreya State Park Campground offers well-maintained sites with both tent and RV options, as well as cabin and yurt accommodations, while Camel Lake Campground provides a more secluded experience with waterfront access. River Landing RV Park represents a newer addition to the region's camping options, situated along the Apalachicola River. Most campgrounds in the area feature mixed-use sites accommodating various camping styles, from basic tent pads to full-hookup RV sites.
Access roads to certain camping areas require careful navigation, particularly after rain events. A camper shared, "If your GPS sends you onto Forest Rd 121 or 105 find another route unless you are in 4WD." Weather patterns in this north Florida region bring mild winters and hot, humid summers, making spring and fall popular seasons for camping. Campgrounds near water features like Camel Lake and the Apalachicola River often require advance reservations during peak periods. Travelers should note that some primitive camping areas have limited cell coverage, while more developed sites typically provide basic amenities like restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings. Elevation changes are minimal compared to other camping regions, but the area does feature some distinctive terrain with bluffs overlooking rivers.
The region's campgrounds receive consistently positive reviews for cleanliness and natural beauty. According to one visitor, "Torreya State Park has a small campground. The bathroom and showers are impeccable. It's remote from any towns so bring some binoculars." Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with campers reporting sightings of gopher tortoises and various bird species. Several campgrounds provide swimming areas and fishing access, though visitors should be aware of alligators in some water bodies. Proximity to hiking trails represents another highlight, with Torreya State Park featuring challenging trails with significant elevation changes—unusual for Florida. Night skies in this less-developed region offer excellent stargazing opportunities, with limited light pollution compared to coastal camping areas. Campground hosts at several locations receive high marks from guests for their hospitality and local knowledge.
Best Camping Sites Near Bristol, Florida (154)
1. Torreya State Park Campground
19 ReviewsSneads, FL10 milesWebsite+1 (850) 643-2674$16 - $50 / night
"Torreya State Park is tucked away by itself and has a smaller campground at only 29 sites, and it's part of what makes it a great place to get away. Small and remote means peace and quiet."
"Great trails in the mountains of Florida. Campsites are narrow but long we had enough space to set our screen room up behind camper. Hurricane michael did extensive damage to the area."
2. Camel Lake Campground
12 ReviewsBristol, FL10 milesWebsite+1 (850) 643-2282$20 - $30 / night
"The trails were nice and maintained. There is a swimming area and I was able to put my kayak in for a nice paddle. Will definitely return once the Florida sun gets tucked in for winter."
"It is very quiet, the beach is nice (there are 2 gators that live on the other side of the lake), the bathrooms are clean, the shower was decent & the host was great!"
3. Eastbank
36 ReviewsChattahoochee, FL22 milesWebsite+1 (229) 662-9273$14 - $50 / night
"This is a great COE campground on Florida Georgia border. Everyone here was so friendly. Sites are large but very open. Three camping loops. We stayed in C 17."
"Get a lakeside site if you can for the most spectacular views. I thought I saw on their website that they had laundry facilities, but no, just a room with plumbing that should go to machines."
4. River Landing RV Park
2 ReviewsBristol, FL1 mileWebsite+1 (850) 447-0743$60 / night
"Don't miss out and stop by if your ever in the Panhandle area of Florida. You will not be disappointed!"
"This place has not been on the map before it is new and it has only had about a month in operating at this location."
5. Three Rivers State Park Campground
15 ReviewsSneads, FL22 milesWebsite+1 (850) 482-9006$16 - $65 / night
"A pleasant surprise when we arrived, after miles of rural driving! GPS took us the correct way, but seemed we were lost!"
"This is another example of why I just love our state parks here in Florida. Campground is set up on the river. Great small boat and kayak access right at the campgrounds."
6. Alliance Hill RV Resort
3 ReviewsAltha, FL16 milesWebsite+1 (850) 545-4928"Gated RV park so only park guests are driving in. Manager, Stacey, cheerful and kind. Obviously enjoys her job."
7. Florida River Island
4 ReviewsSumatra, FL18 milesWebsite+1 (850) 539-5999"You need to make reservations in advance with the Northwest Florida Water Management District."
"Remote campground that has fishing and off-roading opportunities. I like that it’s free, but they also have fire rings and tables unlike the hunt camps."
8. Blue Hole Campground — Florida Caverns State Park
33 ReviewsMarianna, FL32 milesWebsite+1 (850) 482-9598$20 / night
"Really enjoyed getting into this Florida gem and enjoying surrounds. Great place for a stopover in this area of Florida. Even a little rain didn't stop the fun."
"My husband and I were pleasantly surprised at our stay at Florida Caverns State Park. Although not a huge cavern such as Carlsbad or Mammoth, Florida Caverns did not disappoint."
9. Seminole State Park Campground
15 ReviewsParadise Acres, GA27 milesWebsite+1 (229) 861-3137$20 - $180 / night
"Uncrowded lakeside camping. Great for swimming, boating, fishing, and kayaking. Very quiet and peaceful. Great camp hosts. Very clean bathrooms and showers."
"The hiking trail just reopened and was an easy 2 miles. Tons of animal tracks to look for and identify!"
10. Vilas Campsite
1 ReviewApalachicola National Forest, FL15 milesWebsite
Recent Camping Photos near Bristol, FL
108 Photos of 154 Bristol Campgrounds
Kathy D.
Camel Lake Campground
Wayne P.
Triple C's Campground & RV Park-PERMANENTLY CLOSED
Ted H.
Eastbank
William B.
Three Rivers State Park Campground
Teri S.
River Junction - Lake Seminole
Melanie T.
Stay n Go RV Resort
Camp With Me
Porter Lake Campground
Brenda A.
Pine Lake RV Park
Teresa H.
Florida Caverns RV Resort
Elisha L.
Seminole State Park Campground
thomas V.
Buckhorn Hunt Camp
Dawna J.
Williams Landing Campground
Recent Reviews near Bristol, FL
549 Reviews of 154 Bristol Campgrounds
- RRichard A.
RangerSeminole State Park Campground
Entire Campground Renovated !
Seminole State Park was completely renovated for 2026. We recently visited in February as they were preparing for the grand reopening.
This is a gorgeous park with lots of things to do; fishing, boating, a sandy beach, fishing pier, with boat ramps, and kayak and canoe rentals to name a few. Miniature golf is also available for a fee.
As well as a completely renovated campground with new bathhouses, there is also cabin rentals should that better serve your stay.
All located on Lake Seminole. We were truly impressed and making plans for an extended visit.
- Brian K.Guide
Falling Waters State Park Campground
Very quiet small campground
Has a lake for swimming, small playground for kids, nice trails. Waterfall depends on rainfall however was a nice addition to the hike. Site 7 was close to site 8. We could hear them walking around the inside of their trailer. It was the only site close to another site. 7
- jjerry S.
ScoutHoliday Campground
Great location
Usually I’m a boondocker, but if I need to stay at a private RV place, this place is one of the nicest.
- jjerry S.Scout
Hickory Landing Campground
Nice remote spot
Nothing special, pit toilet, great boondocking spot, $3 nightly fee
- JJulia F.Scout
Womack Creek Campground — Tate's Hell State Forest
Sites are well spaced, lovely setting, potable water questionable
Stayed in the area with campsites 28-40, I was in Campsite #38 with my 26' travel trailer. Most other campsites for tents only. Drive in was good with flat sandy roads, not too bumpy. The setting is beautiful among tall pines and saw palmetto. Only one bathroom, having a 1 toilet and sink with low water pressure and a shower. Fairly clean. Had electric at my campsite, but no water.
Website says "non-potable water available nearby", but it was not clear where. I found a two taps on the neighboring campsite, but they were not labeled if the water was potable or not.
Walking trails from the campite were not apparent, but I walked some of the many flat sandy forest service roads. Came during early spring migration for songbirds, and heard Northern Parula and resident white-eyed vireos, but the weather was not prime for fall outs. Had a few 80+ F days in late March, but otherwise beautiful weather. Loved the sound of the breeze in the trees. I would come again but with my fresh tank filled to meet my needs.
On Saturday my neighbor had their music playing a little too loud, but other than that I enjoyed a quiet stay.
- BBob B.
TravelerEastbank
Perfect for Overnight Camp
Stayed on C 31. Easy parking for my fifth wheel. Right on the water. Breezy & full sunshine, no tree shade. Beautiful sunset! Grass needed to be mowed, and park attendant warned of Argentine ants (gave me a flyer with suggestions to protect against them). I spray my contact points anyway with bug spray, and saw rigs with bluish powder sprinkled around tires. Level concrete pad. Picnic table weathered & rough. Park was 75% full.
- EEthan D.Traveler
Buckhorn Hunt Camp
Tent and sedan friendly
I travel in a toyota sedan so I was a bit worried about taking the dirt road. From the blacktop, it’s about 2 miles of bumpy dirt road. My car had no trouble playing go-cart, but wouldn’t come through here in the rain. Otherwise, will be back if I’m in Northern FL.
I stayed in a tent and had no trouble finding a flat area with good drainage. Stakes were easy to set in the ground and held well.
Camped for one night with just two other campers. Very quiet and great view of the stars.
Decent cell service for Verizon, was even able to stream.
Bring a book or plan for some quiet meditation as there’s no trails or much to explore. Great place to stop for the night before heading down to the keys.
Grab food and supplies before entering the National Forest. If you poop, bury it unless you want to lull critters to your campsite (: No trash available so plan ahead.
I heard mourning doves, Carolina wrens, and Cardinals before the sunset and fell asleep to the southern frog chorus.
- jasonGuide
High Bluff Campground — Joe Budd WMA and Lake Talquin State Forest
Nice, very simple
This was a quick overnight stay for myself. I arrived a little bit after sunset and left fairly early in the morning.
Stayed at site number 18, which was Lakeside, but all campsites have decent view of lake through the trees. There is a dock and she can walk down to the water itself.
This is a very isolated place, and you have to drive down a dirt road, but very packed, which even sedans can handle no problem, unless it’s been raining that it might get a little slippery
When I stayed, it was 34° so didn’t do a whole lot but get set up in the rooftop tent and sleep. No real issues with Internet, for Verizon, but signal wasn’t super strong.
There is a toilet bathroom that is composting style, without sinks or showers.
But I booked I thought it said electrical, but after I booked, it said no electrical and when I arrived on site, there was a electrical pedestal, looked brand new, but not working. Unknown if they will soon have electricity or not ever used.
For its isolation and quietness and availability, I would definitely return. I don’t have a lot in this area to attend to, but this is a nice spot.
Star count is only down, ranked due to lack of electricity and water, as well as the slightly difficult drive in. That’s a plus for some people, but that’s how I do my star rankings.
Guide to Bristol
Bristol, Florida camping encompasses an area with significant elevation changes uncommon for Florida, with bluffs rising 130 feet above the Apalachicola River. The region sits within the eastern edge of the Florida Panhandle where the terrain transitions from coastal flatlands to more varied topography. Campgrounds in this area often require reservations during spring and fall when temperatures are most moderate.
What to do
Hiking challenging trails: Torreya State Park offers unusually difficult hiking paths with steep elevation changes. One camper noted, "There's a hiking loop called the Great Challenge. It's so difficult, meandering up and down in elevation for 9 miles, that you may give up." The park's rare Torreya trees and diverse plant life make the effort worthwhile.
Fishing in Lake Seminole: Seminole State Park Campground provides excellent access to lake fishing. "Great campground hosts. Beautiful lake with good fishing," reports one visitor. The lake remains popular year-round with less crowding during winter months.
Kayaking the Apalachicola River: River Landing RV Park offers direct river access. A camper shared, "The place is beautiful and clean and sits on the prettiest river the Apalachicola river." Paddlers can explore miles of riverfront with minimal boat traffic except on weekends.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Eastbank campground features generous lakefront camping areas. "Due to the warm weather there were many sites available to us in early August. We were able to get a waterfront site with a long gravel drive, picnic table and fire pit," one visitor reported. Sites accommodate larger RVs and provide partial shade.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds throughout the Bristol area maintain well-kept restrooms and common areas. At Three Rivers State Park, campers noted "Very clean facilities. A pleasant surprise when we arrived, after miles of rural driving!" The park manages to keep amenities maintained despite its remote setting.
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife unusual for more developed areas. At Torreya State Park, one camper shared, "Incredible. Park rangers were so nice. Beautiful scenery of the Apalachicola River. The steephead ravines are remarkable! Diverse flora. Rare animals seen: gopher tortoise, copperhead." Early morning offers best wildlife sighting opportunities.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access roads to certain camping areas require careful navigation. At Camel Lake Campground, a visitor warned, "If your GPS sends you onto Forest Rd 121 or 105 find another route unless you are in 4WD." Many forest roads become difficult or impassable after rain.
Remote location requires preparation: Most Bristol camping areas sit far from amenities. One camper at Florida River Island mentioned, "No cell signal, peaceful near the river." Bring all necessary supplies as the nearest full grocery stores are 30+ minutes away.
Seasonal insect challenges: Summer brings heavy insect activity. A camper at Eastbank reported, "I was battling them with our Repel insect spray. If you stay get a site with no trees and that's not near the water. The dragonflies at a certain time of day are outrageous too!" Spring and fall camping reduces this issue.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas with safety considerations: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming spots with varying amenities. At Camel Lake, a visitor noted, "We stayed for 4 nights. It is very quiet, the beach is nice (there are 2 gators that live on the other side of the lake), the bathrooms are clean." Always supervise children near water.
Playground availability: Three Rivers State Park Campground offers play areas for younger children. A recent visitor mentioned, "The playground close to the camping loop is nearly complete and looks super fun for the Littles." These facilities provide activity options during hot afternoons.
Nature education opportunities: Many parks offer ranger-led programs that engage children. At Torreya State Park, "Tour the Gregory House - it's worth the couple bucks! 130 ft bluffs and great view of the Apalachicola River." These programs typically run weekends during peak season.
Tips from RVers
Limited full-hookup options: Most campgrounds offer electric and water only. At Florida Caverns State Park, a camper noted, "Nice full hookups campsites. A lot of nice hiking trails. The caverns tour is worth it." Reserve these limited sites well in advance during peak season.
Site selection considerations: RVers should carefully select sites based on access and level ground. At Seminole State Park, one visitor explained, "The waterfront sites are pullthroughs on a halfmoon loop. The sites are level gravel pads with a walkway that leads to a raised gravel sitting area for each site." Request specific site numbers when booking.
Generator restrictions: Many parks limit generator use to specific hours. A visitor to River Landing RV Park shared, "She figured out how to get water to us and welcomed us with food and music." Call ahead to confirm power options, especially during hurricane season when outages are possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Bristol, FL?
What camping is available near Bristol, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Bristol, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 154 campgrounds and RV parks near Bristol, FL and 6 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Bristol, FL?
Which is the most popular campground near Bristol, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Bristol, FL is Torreya State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 19 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Bristol, FL?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Bristol, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 free dispersed camping spots near Bristol, FL.
What parks are near Bristol, FL?
What parks are near Bristol, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Bristol, FL that allow camping, notably Apalachicola National Forest and Lake Seminole.
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