Camel Lake Campground
4.39165 reviews23239 NW CAMEL LAKE RD
Camel Lake Campground
$20.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$30.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Facility rates are $30 per night for RV sites with electricity and $20 per night for non-electric RV sites. Additional charges include $10 per day for electric hookups and an $8 booking fee. User reviews frequently mention hidden fees, such as one stating, 'They charge $10 per day for electric! They charge an $8 bogus fee regardless of how long you stay.'
About this campground
Escape to the tranquil shores of Camel Lake Campground, where just 10 secluded campsites offer an intimate retreat within the breathtaking Apalachicola National Forest. Whether you're setting up your RV at one of the electric sites or pitching a tent beneath towering pines, you'll enjoy modern comforts including flush toilets and a clean bathhouse, all while maintaining that cherished connection to nature. The shimmering waters of Camel Lake beckon just steps away, promising peaceful mornings and unforgettable sunsets.
Camel Lake Campground is a small, quiet facility with 10 campsites suitable for both RVs and tents. The campground offers a mix of developed sites with water and electric hookups and primitive sites.
Historical SignificanceStep into a living piece of conservation history at Camel Lake Campground, nestled within the storied Apalachicola National Forest. This protected wilderness has long served as a sanctuary for biodiversity and a testament to successful forest preservation. Adventure seekers will discover that the legendary Florida Trail passes right by the campground, offering direct access to one of the state's most celebrated hiking experiences and connecting visitors to a broader network of natural wonders.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of Florida's seasons at Camel Lake, where each time of year brings its own rewards. Summer arrives with warmth and vitality, though savvy campers come prepared for nature's smaller residents during the buggy months. Winter transforms the campground into a camper's paradise, with crisp, dry air and comfortable temperatures that make for perfect nights around the campfire. Spring and fall offer moderate precipitation that keeps the landscape lush and vibrant.
ElevationThe campground rests at a gentle elevation characteristic of Florida's coastal plain, providing easy access and comfortable camping conditions for visitors of all abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in one of Earth's most remarkable ecosystems, where ancient longleaf pines stretch skyward and carpet the ground with fragrant needles. Wander through expanses of native wiregrass swaying in the breeze, and discover the fascinating world of carnivorous pitcher plants thriving in specialized bog habitats. The seepage slopes create a mosaic of microenvironments that support incredible biodiversity. To the south, rare pine savannahs paint a picture of Florida as it existed centuries ago, while nearby creeks and swamps teem with wildlife that will delight nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Geological RegionCamel Lake Campground sits at the heart of the Apalachicola National Forest, recognized globally as one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet. This extraordinary landscape showcases the full spectrum of North Florida's natural heritage, from majestic longleaf pine forests to delicate wiregrass prairies. The unique geology supports specialized habitats like seepage slopes and pitcher plant bogs, while rare pine savannahs to the south offer glimpses of ecosystems found nowhere else on Earth. It's a place where ancient geological forces have created a modern-day wonderland for nature lovers.
Campsite details
AccessibilityDay-use parking lots, picnic areas, and restrooms are accessible. Specific accessibility details for campsites are not provided.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as "spacious and large," with plenty of room between sites for privacy.
Sites PrivacyUsers generally found the sites to be private and well-shaded. "Plenty of shade and privacy," said one reviewer.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites 1 or 2 for proximity to the lake and scenic views. Site 5 is noted for privacy and space.
Best CampsitesSites 1, 2, and 5 are highly rated for their lake views and spacious layouts.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
8:00 AM
Check-out
6:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights during a visit, with a limit of 14 nights total within a rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null, as the exact number of guests allowed per site is not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 10 spacious sites spread across a loop, some with electric and water hookups, and all designed for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round from January 1st to December 31st.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or via the app.
Walk-in AvailabilityThere are no walk-in-only sites; all sites are reservable in advance through Recreation.gov.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made any time before the arrival date but incur a $10 cancellation fee, and additional penalties apply for late cancellations. Late cancellation for individual campsites forfeits the first night's recreation use fee. Refunds are processed through Recreation.gov.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Camel Lake Campground provides diverse recreational activities including swimming, hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing in a serene natural setting. The centerpiece is a crystal-clear lake suitable for swimming and boating.
Hiking
The campground features a one-mile loop trail around the lake and offers access to the Florida National Scenic Trail. According to user reviews, the trails are "well-maintained" and provide an excellent way to explore the natural beauty of the area.Fishing
Fishing is allowed in Camel Lake. While one user noted catching only "catfish and mudfish," the activity was generally enjoyed by guests.Swimming
A sandy beach provides easy access to the lake for swimming. However, some users expressed concerns about alligators in the lake.Biking
Biking opportunities are available on the trails and surrounding forest roads, though one review mentioned the need for a map to navigate the area safely.Boating
Non-motorized boating such as kayaking and canoeing is allowed. "The lake is excellent for kayak and boarding," stated one reviewer.Wildlife viewing
The campground is located in the Apalachicola National Forest, known for its biodiversity. Wildlife sightings include bald eagles, otters, and alligators.Beach activities
The beach area is sandy and suitable for sunbathing and swimming, though some users expressed concerns about "problematic gators."Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, but the campground remains open year-round, offering potential for off-season hiking and wildlife viewing.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are popular on Camel Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated fire rings at each campsite.
- Quiet hours are Null, as scheduled quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include sharp rocks on the access road, alligator presence in the lake, and high insect activity during warmer months. Several user reviews highlight dangers posed by the road, with one stating, 'Sharp rock 3-6 inches in diameter...poked through my outer tire creating a big hole.'
Active alertsThere are no current alerts or advisories explicitly documented.
Weather forecast
85
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 75%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.1 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
Nearest emergency services include hospitals in Tallahassee, approximately 40 miles away. For police or immediate assistance, contact the Bristol Police Department.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1st to December 31st, designated as peak season.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, and they are described as "well-maintained" and "secured." Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is directly adjacent to Camel Lake, with sites offering lakeside views and a 1-mile trail encircling the lake.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include rough access roads, hidden fees, lack of a dump station, and maintenance issues at the campground. Reviews frequently mention, 'The road into the park really needs some work.'
HostCampground hosts are generally attentive and helpful, frequently praised for their friendliness and maintenance efforts. Some hosts have been actively involved in assisting campers, such as one review noting, 'Rick helped with hooking up and unhooking the camper.'
Campground Map
23239 NW CAMEL LAKE RD
Driving directionsTake SR 20 west from Tallahassee through Hosford to Bristol. Turn south on SR 12. Continue south to the Apalachicola National Forest boundary sign and look for a sign for Camel Lake soon after you pass the work station and trailhead on the left. Turn left on Forest Road 105, which is an unpaved road. Drive 2 miles to the recreation area entrance on the right.
The access road (Forest Road 105) is a 2-mile unpaved road requiring careful navigation due to potholes and sharp rocks. Several user reviews highlight the rough condition, with one stating, 'The 2-mile stretch of road getting there is absolutely terrible...it contains sharp rocks, so you have to go very, very slow.' Another reviewer noted, 'The road into the facility has significant rough spots, so it’s slow going.'Nearby places
Hosford (approx. 12 miles, 20-minute drive), Tallahassee (approx. 40 miles, 1-hour drive)
Nearby supplies
The closest supplies, such as groceries and fuel, can be found in Bristol, approximately 12 miles away. User reviews advise stocking up on essentials before arriving due to the facility’s remote location.
Camper Reviews
4.4
165 reviews
Camel Lake Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Camel Lake Campground are generally positive, emphasizing its serene and secluded location, spacious campsites, and friendly hosts. However, the poor condition of the access road and the absence of a dump station are common complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 165 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects frequently mentioned include the peaceful environment, well-maintained facilities, and helpful campground hosts.
Based on 165 reviewsCommon Concerns
Negative feedback includes the "poor road conditions leading to the campground," a lack of hot water in the showers, and the absence of a dump station. Some users also noted issues with bugs and...
Based on 165 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing bug spray, a fan to combat gnats, and sufficient supplies due to the campground's remote location. Several reviewers advised caution when driving the 2-mile unpaved road...
Based on 165 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is described as peaceful year-round, though summer months are noted for bugs and heat. Winter camping offers cooler temperatures and fewer insects.
Based on 165 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The lake is beautiful and clean," said one user. Another noted, "The bathrooms were spotless!" A recurring sentiment was: "The campground hosts were very friendly and helpful."
Based on 165 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Sites #1 and #2 are praised for their lake views. Site #3 is described as "spacious and private," while Site #10 is noted for its proximity to the lake.
Based on 165 reviewsAccessibility Features
Day-use facilities are accessible, though no specific reviews address campsite accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 165 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed and welcomed. One reviewer appreciated the quiet environment, which made it easy to camp with their dog.
Based on 165 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025