Karick Lake North Youth Group Camp Blackwater River State Forest
00 review11650 Munson Highway , Milton, Florida, 32570, United States
Karick Lake North Youth Group Camp Blackwater River State Forest
$25.00 - $25.00 / 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$25.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The campsite fee is $25.
About this campground
Nestled within the pristine Blackwater River State Forest, Karick Lake North Youth Group Camp provides an ideal retreat for youth organizations and groups seeking authentic outdoor experiences. This thoughtfully designed campground accommodates up to 25 adventurers in a tent-only setting, where the sounds of nature replace the noise of everyday life. Your group will enjoy modern conveniences including fresh potable water and a well-maintained bathhouse with private showers, while gathering around crackling fire rings under starlit skies. The camp's crown jewel is its direct access to tranquil Karick Lake, complete with a fishing pier and boat ramp where electric motors glide silently across the water, preserving the peaceful atmosphere that makes this destination so special.
Karick Lake North Youth Group Camp is primarily designed for group tent camping. RV accommodations are not supported at this site.
Historical SignificanceYour group will be camping in the heart of Blackwater River State Forest, a landscape shaped by centuries of natural history and named for the mysterious, tannin-stained waters of the Blackwater River. This remarkable forest represents one of Florida's most important conservation success stories, where the ancient longleaf pine forests that once covered millions of acres across the Southeast have been carefully preserved and restored, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's ecological heritage.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of Florida's panhandle seasons at Karick Lake North, where warm, sultry summers invite endless days of swimming and fishing, while cool, crisp winters create perfect conditions for cozy campfire gatherings. The humid summer months bring lush greenery and vibrant wildlife activity, while the drier winter season offers crystal-clear skies ideal for stargazing and comfortable hiking temperatures that make exploring the surrounding forest a pure joy.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain of this North Florida location provides easy accessibility for groups of all ages and abilities, with level camping areas that make setup a breeze while still offering subtle changes in topography that add visual interest to your outdoor adventure.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse your group in the breathtaking beauty of the longleaf pine-wiregrass ecosystem, where towering pines create a natural cathedral overhead and native wiregrass sways gently in the breeze. The centerpiece of your camping experience is the stunning 65-acre Karick Lake, its dark waters reflecting the surrounding forest like a mirror. This serene body of water not only provides excellent fishing opportunities but also serves as a natural classroom where young people can observe herons stalking the shallows, turtles basking on logs, and perhaps catch a glimpse of the occasional alligator maintaining respectful distance.
Geological RegionKarick Lake North sits within one of the world's most remarkable ecological treasures – the vast longleaf pine-wiregrass ecosystem of Blackwater River State Forest. This extraordinary landscape connects seamlessly with the adjacent Conecuh National Forest and Eglin Air Force Base, creating the planet's largest contiguous expanse of this rare habitat type. Here, ancient geological processes have created sandy soils perfect for longleaf pines, while millennia of natural fire cycles have shaped an ecosystem found nowhere else on Earth, making every camping trip a journey into one of North America's most unique and biodiverse regions.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features were not specifically described within the information provided.
Sites SizeThe youth group campsite accommodates up to 25 people.
Sites PrivacyThe group campsite offers a large and dedicated space, suitable for hosting a youth group. Reviews suggest the site is relatively peaceful and secluded.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo specific recommendations.
Best CampsitesOnly one group campsite available.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum 25 people.
Groups
The youth group site accommodates up to 25 people and is designed for tent camping. The area is large and suitable for hosting organized groups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle group tent camping area.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservation information not available.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot specified; reservations are recommended.
Cancellation PolicyNo specific cancellation policy mentioned.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Karick Lake North Youth Group Camp offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities. Activities include fishing, boating, canoeing, hiking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, nature study, and photography. The nearby Karick Lake Loop Trail provides a scenic and moderately challenging hiking experience.
Hiking
The Karick Lake Loop Trail is a hiking trail that circles the lake and is reported to be approximately 3.8 to 5 miles in length, depending on the source. Reviewers call it "enjoyable to hike" and "not a hard walk." The trail offers scenic views of the lake and surrounding woodland.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Karick Lake, with options for catching fish off the dock or from a boat. One reviewer noted, "The lake is full of fish," and another commented, "Wait till evening time around the docks and you can catch a lot."Boating
Boating is allowed on Karick Lake, but only electric motors are permitted. A boat ramp and pier are available for access.Wildlife viewing
The area is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, making it an excellent spot for bird watching and wildlife viewing.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically highlighted in the materials provided.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing are supported at the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire pits with cooking grates provided; gathering firewood from downed trees allowed.
- Quiet hours not mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsGangster squirrels reported by campers; wear safety gear during hunting season.
Weather forecast
91
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 38%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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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 contact: 8509575700.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates not mentioned.
Trash and recyclingUser reviews did not mention specific trash and recycling facilities, although one review noted that the dumpster is inconveniently located.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Karick Lake, a 65-acre fishing lake.
Common complaintsSome complaints about rude hosts and light pollution near bathrooms.
HostCampground host available.
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 left and head west to Milligan. At Milligan turn right onto Highway 4 to Baker. In Baker continue heading north. The road name changes from Highway 4 to Highway 189. At 4 and 189 travel 7.7 miles to the North Karick Lake sign and turn right onto the entrance road. When entering the campground take the dirt road to the right to a gate. Use the combination received to unlock the gate and proceed to the youth group campsite.
Accessibility is good for major roads. The road is dirt leading to the group campsite.Nearby places
Milton (approximate distance and travel time unavailable)
Pensacola (~1-hour northeast)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies information unavailable.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Karick Lake North Youth Group Camp Blackwater River State Forest has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Karick Lake North Youth Group Camp are overwhelmingly positive, with many highlighting the peaceful environment, cleanliness, and range of outdoor activities. Commonly mentioned themes include the well-maintained facilities, enjoyable hiking experiences, and the opportunity for fishing and boating.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Clean and well-maintained restrooms and showers, a peaceful and quiet environment, and enjoyable hiking trails around the lake. Campers also appreciated the availability of fire rings and the large...
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Common Concerns
A few users noted issues with the location of the dumpster, lack of 50-amp hookups for RVs, and disturbances from wildlife such as squirrels. One user commented on the rudeness of a campground host...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring sufficient supplies as there is no camp store. Be prepared to gather firewood from downed trees for campfires. Wearing fluorescent orange clothing during hunting season is recommended for...
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Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are highly recommended for camping due to moderate temperatures and lower precipitation chances. Summer reviews indicate higher temperatures and humidity levels, which may affect...
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Camper Quotes
- "The facilities were well maintained with separate bathrooms and showers for men and women." - "The Karick Lake Loop Trail around the lake was enjoyable to hike." - "Watch out for the gangster...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 12 received mixed reviews due to its proximity to the restrooms; the light from the facilities was noted as a disturbance at night, but it still offered a distant view of the lake.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility for people with disabilities was not specifically addressed in the sources provided.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed on leashes, and no complaints or issues regarding pet policies were mentioned in the reviews.
Last updated August 10, 2025