Karick Lake North Campground Blackwater River State Forest
00 review11650 Munson Highway, Milton, Florida, 32570, United States
Karick Lake North Campground Blackwater River State Forest
$20.00 - $32.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees typically range between $20 and $32 per night depending on site amenities. Includes 30 amp electric service and potable water access.
About this campground
Nestled within Florida's pristine wilderness, Karick Lake North Campground offers 16 thoughtfully designed asphalt campsites where modern comfort meets natural beauty. Each site comes equipped with 30-amp power and fresh water hookups, welcoming both RV adventurers and tent campers alike. Beyond your campsite, discover well-maintained restrooms with hot showers, convenient dump stations, and inviting picnic areas complete with fire pits for evening gatherings. The campground's boat ramp and fishing pier provide direct access to the serene waters of Karick Lake, where anglers cast for bass as herons wade along the shoreline. Whether you're launching your kayak at dawn, hiking forest trails, or capturing the perfect wildlife photograph, this outdoor haven promises endless adventures.
The campground accommodates both RVs and tents, with designated sites providing 30-amp electricity and water hookups. Group camping is also possible, and the sites are asphalt-paved and newer.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure unfolds within the remarkable Blackwater River State Forest, home to the planet's largest remaining expanse of longleaf pine-wiregrass ecosystem. This ancient landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, where Indigenous peoples once traveled these pine-covered hills and early settlers marveled at forests stretching beyond the horizon. Today, this ecological treasure stands as a testament to conservation success, protecting a vanishing habitat that once covered 90 million acres across the Southeast.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of Florida's seasons at Karick Lake, where winter brings perfect camping weather with comfortable daytime temperatures around 60°F and crisp nights dipping to 45°F—ideal for cozy campfires and morning coffee by the lake. As summer arrives, the forest comes alive under warm sunshine with temperatures reaching 85-90°F, perfect for swimming and water activities. Summer afternoon thunderstorms roll through regularly, bringing dramatic skies and refreshing rain that nourishes the surrounding pine forests and fills the air with the sweet scent of rain-washed earth.
ElevationThe campground rests at a gentle elevation typical of North Florida's rolling terrain, where subtle changes in the landscape create diverse habitats and scenic vistas across the pine forests and lake shores.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to mist rising from the mirror-smooth surface of 65-acre Karick Lake, where ancient longleaf pines stand sentinel along the shoreline. This stunning aquatic gem sits cradled within the vast Blackwater River State Forest, creating a sanctuary where water meets woodland in perfect harmony. Morning light filters through the pine canopy, illuminating a landscape alive with wildlife—white-tailed deer emerge from forest shadows, wild turkeys strut across sandy paths, and countless bird species fill the air with their songs. The surrounding longleaf pine forest creates a cathedral-like atmosphere, with towering trees that have weathered centuries and understory plants that bloom in seasonal waves of color.
Geological RegionSituated within the magnificent Blackwater River State Forest—Florida's largest state forest—the campground occupies a unique geological setting where ancient sand hills meet blackwater streams. The legendary Blackwater River winds its way southwestward through this expansive wilderness, its tea-colored waters stained by tannins from centuries of fallen leaves. This remarkable landscape showcases the rare longleaf pine-wiregrass ecosystem, a fire-adapted community that has evolved over millennia on these well-drained, sandy soils. The forest's rolling topography reveals the area's fascinating geological past, shaped by ancient seas and sculpted by wind and water into the diverse habitats that thrive here today.
Campsite details
Sites SizeSites are described as large and can accommodate vehicles pulling campers if the total length fits completely within the site.
Sites PrivacySome sites offer privacy and are spaced out, as noted by reviewers. However, sites near the bathrooms (like sites 12 and 13) may experience light pollution.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near the lake, like 12, offer views but may be affected by bathroom lighting. Choosing shaded or secluded sites recommended for privacy.
Best CampsitesSite 12 identified as having lake view but proximity to bathrooms may affect experience. Site recommendations vary based on preference for light/darkness and access to amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Check-out time not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit of 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
RV or tent campers must fit within designated space limits.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSmall campground with 16 asphalt sites, including a host site. Sites are spaced apart with lake and forest views.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservation details not specified beyond being required.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly described, but some sites appear to accommodate first-come-first-serve during COVID restrictions.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation details not explicitly mentioned.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, bird watching, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The campground offers a peaceful environment with a 65-acre lake, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts. Swimming is not permitted, and only electric motors are allowed for boating. The Karick Lake Loop Trail is a popular feature, offering an approximate 4-mile hike around the lake.
Hiking
The Karick Lake Loop Trail circles the 65-acre lake and is approximately 4 miles long. It is not considered a hard walk and is suitable for most hikers.Fishing
Fishing is popular at this campground, with a lake full of fish. However, some reviewers noted that their catches were limited.Boating
Boating is allowed, but only with electric motors. A boat ramp and dock are provided for convenience.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include bird watching and the chance to observe squirrels and other forest animals. The area is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed; each site includes a fire pit with cooking grate. Charcoal and firewood gathering from dead trees recommended.
- Quiet hours not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsSquirrels noted as aggressive in reviews, stealing food and damaging property. Precautions recommended during hunting season.
Active alerts: No current alerts beyond COVID-related spacing restrictions.
Weather forecast
90
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 36%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Ranger Station phone number: 8509575700. Closest hospital is likely in Crestview or Milton, though official confirmation required.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season likely corresponds to warmer months but not explicitly mentioned.
Trash and recyclingDumpster facilities are available but are described as being inconveniently located.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on a 65-acre lake with pier and boat ramp. Fishing and kayaking popular activities.
Common complaintsComplaints include aggressive squirrels, proximity of some sites (12, 13) to bathroom lights, and poorly placed dumpsters.
HostA host is available on-site. Reviews mention positive interactions with hosts during stays.
Campground Map
11650 Munson Highway, Milton, Florida, 32570, United States
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 10 take Exit 56. Travel Highway 85 northbound to Highway 90 in Crestview. Turn to the left and head west to Milligan. At Milligan turn to the right onto Highway 4. In Baker continue heading north. The road name changes from Highway 4 to Highway 189. Travel 7.7 miles to the North Karick Lake sign and turn right at the entrance road. Do not turn at the South Karick Lake sign. For campground location using the internet type: North Karick Lake Road Baker, FL 32531.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. No indication of seasonal closures or challenging terrain in the description, but users should note the specific route to avoid confusion between North and South Karick Lake entrances.Nearby places
Milton (35 miles, approximately 45 minutes), Crestview (18 miles, approximately 25 minutes), Pensacola (50 miles, approximately 1 hour).
Nearby supplies
Provisions like groceries and camping supplies are likely accessible in Crestview or Milton. Exact information is not provided.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Karick Lake North Campground Blackwater River State Forest has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews consistently praise the campground for its cleanliness, peaceful environment, and well-maintained facilities. The lake and hiking trail are standout features.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean and quiet surroundings, well-maintained restrooms and showers, and enjoyable hiking trails. Campers appreciated the lake views, spacious sites, and helpful campground...
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Common Concerns
Complaints include light pollution near the bathrooms, inconvenient dumpster placement, and mischievous squirrels stealing food and damaging property.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing firewood or tools to gather it from downed trees, avoiding sites near bathrooms if light pollution is a concern, and wearing fluorescent orange during hunting seasons for...
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Seasonal Insights
Visitors note that the campground is busier during hunting seasons and that campers should wear fluorescent orange while hiking during this time. Storms can occasionally disrupt camping plans.
Camper Quotes
"The facilities were well maintained with separate bathrooms and showers for men and women. There was hot water and the showers had great water pressure." - Allison Chunco
"Watch out for the gangster...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 12 and 13: Located near the bathrooms, these sites experience light pollution. Site 12 offers a distant lake view.
Last updated August 10, 2025