Wright Lake Campground
4.2583 reviewsP.O. Box 579, HWY 20, Bristol, FL, 32321, USA
Wright Lake Campground
$3.00 - $20.00 / 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
Camping fees are $20 per night without eligible passes, while day-use fees are $3 (half for senior pass holders). Seasonal and holiday minimum stays apply. Reservation fees are non-refundable, and late cancellations incur penalties such as forfeiting the first night's fees.
About this campground
Nestled within Florida's enchanting Apalachicola Savannahs near the pristine Forgotten Coast, Wright Lake Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its harmonious blend of wilderness and comfort. Whether you secure one of the coveted reservable sites or arrive early for first-come, first-serve camping, you'll find yourself surrounded by thoughtful amenities including sturdy picnic tables for sunset dinners, grills for campfire cooking, and crackling fire rings for evening gatherings. Modern flush toilets and rejuvenating hot showers ensure your camping experience balances rustic charm with essential conveniences.
Wright Lake Campground offers a mix of primitive, tent, and RV camping options. Facilities include basic amenities such as water hookups and fire rings but lack electricity. Sites cater to both individual and group campers, though the campground is relatively small with only 19 sites.
Historical SignificanceHistory whispers through the pines at Wright Lake, where centuries of human stories intersect with the natural world. Just a short journey away, the formidable Fort Gadsden stands as a testament to Florida's complex past, while the scenic Apalachee Savannahs Scenic Byway winds through landscapes that have witnessed Native American settlements, colonial encounters, and the evolution of the American frontier. Interpretive trails weave historical narratives into your outdoor experience, transforming a simple camping trip into a journey through time.
Weather and SeasonsWinter transforms Wright Lake into a camper's paradise, with crisp, moderate temperatures and minimal rainfall creating perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. The dry season invites hikers and nature lovers to explore without the worry of sudden downpours. As Florida's notorious summer heat and humidity descend upon the region, the campground wisely closes its gates, allowing the landscape to rest and regenerate for the next season of visitors.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details remain part of the campground's subtle mysteries, the gentle Florida terrain ensures accessible camping for adventurers of all abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering longleaf pines create a natural cathedral above Wright Lake Campground, their straight trunks reaching skyward while carpets of wiregrass and clusters of saw palmetto paint the forest floor in varying shades of green. This iconic pine savannah ecosystem harbors countless wildlife species, from colorful songbirds to elusive forest creatures. Beyond the campground boundaries, mysterious swamps and open savannahs create a mosaic of habitats, offering campers front-row seats to one of Florida's most biodiverse and tranquil natural theaters.
Geological RegionPerched atop a gentle ridge in the vast Apalachicola Savannahs, Wright Lake Campground occupies one of North America's most significant longleaf pine ecosystems. This ancient landscape, sculpted by fire and time, showcases nature's resilience through its distinctive plant communities. Beneath the pine canopy, wiregrass meadows alternate with palmetto thickets, while nearby wetlands and savannahs create a patchwork of ecological niches. This remarkable geological setting represents one of the last great expanses of a forest type that once blanketed the southeastern United States.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is described as fairly level and accessible, with features such as water hookups and wide trails making it convenient for a range of users.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious and level, making them suitable for a variety of camping setups including RVs and tents. Some reviewers specifically praised the 'extra-large' size of certain sites.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy between sites varies. Outer sites are more secluded with natural vegetation providing some demarcation, while inner sites near the bathhouse offer less privacy due to their clustered layout.
Total Campsites19 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 18 is close to the lake and offers solar collection opportunities but is not fully lakeside. Site 15 is favorable for Starlink users due to sparse pines.
Best CampsitesHighly rated sites include Site 8, Site 15, and Site 17 for their spaciousness and tranquility.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Anytime after 8 a.m. during operating hours.
Check-out
By 6 p.m. during operating hours.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific information provided about maximum guests per site.
Groups
There is no specific information about group sites, though the campground’s layout supports both individual and potential small group camping.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCircular perimeter arrangement with comfort station centrally located. Lake-facing sites are separated by vegetation.
Open and Closed SeasonClosed during summer. Winter hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySeveral sites are first-come, first-serve, but the majority require reservations in advance.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee plus forfeiting the first night's recreation use fees for late cancellations. Changes are possible at a $10 fee for completely different stay dates. Refunds must be processed through Recreation.gov.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Wright Lake Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and boating. A 4.6-mile hiking trail and a shorter 0.2-mile loop provide opportunities to explore the surrounding ecosystems. The lake is suitable for fishing and paddling, though swimming is not recommended due to alligators and snakes.
Hiking
The campground features a 4.6-mile trail that passes through diverse ecosystems and a shorter 0.2-mile loop around the lake. Trails are well-marked but reported as overgrown in some sections. Highlights include a log footbridge and habitats for the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker.Fishing
Fishing at Wright Lake is a popular activity, with the lake described as scenic and well-suited for anglers. However, specific details about fish species are not provided.Biking
Biking opportunities are available, with some visitors noting easy, low-traffic roads leading to nearby areas like Hickory Landing.Boating
The lake is described as suitable for non-motorized boating activities such as canoeing and kayaking. Nearby Hickory Landing offers additional boating access to Owl Creek and the Apalachicola River.Wildlife viewing
The campground provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, including sightings of geckos, colorful mushrooms, and habitats for the red-cockaded woodpecker.Winter Activities
Winter activities include hiking and wildlife viewing, as the campground remains accessible during this season.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and kayaking are popular on Wright Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire pits available at each site for campfires.
- Quiet hours are 10 p.m. to 8 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include ticks, snakes, alligators, and the occasional presence of hunters during hunting season. Bug repellent is advised.
Active alertsNo specific active alerts, but some reviews mention ongoing recovery post-Hurricane Michael.
Weather forecast
84
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 87%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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 are available in Eastpoint (hospital, police station) and Sumatra (basic services).
Good to know
Peak season datesNo specific peak season dates provided.
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available throughout the campground, and they are reportedly well-maintained. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Wright Lake, offering boating and hiking opportunities. Lake-facing campsites are available but obstructed by vegetation.
Common complaintsComplaints include generator noise disrupting quiet hours, lack of cleanliness in bathrooms, and overgrown trails.
HostCampground hosts are frequently praised for their friendliness and diligence. Hosts like Jay and Bruno (dog) are specifically mentioned for excellent service.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 579, HWY 20, Bristol, FL, 32321, USA
Driving directionsFrom the intersection of CR 379 and SR 65 in Sumatra, drive south on SR 65 for 2.5 miles. Turn right onto FR 101 (Wright Lake Rd) and follow it west for 1.5 miles to the Wright Lake Recreation Area entrance on the right. Turn right and follow the entrance road up to the kiosk.
The campground is accessible via a fairly level road with no significant challenges. However, winter hours indicate operation from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and the campground is closed during summer.Nearby places
Sumatra (approximately 2.5 miles), Eastpoint (25 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest town for camping supplies, groceries, and wood is Eastpoint, approximately 25 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
83 reviews
Wright Lake Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Wright Lake Campground is frequently described as peaceful, remote, and well-maintained. Positive experiences often highlight the cleanliness of bathroom facilities, spacious campsites, and the friendliness of camp hosts. However, recurring complaints include noise from generators, lack of cell service, and occasional maintenance issues with trails and amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 83 reviews
What Campers Love
Commonly praised aspects include clean and spacious sites, friendly and accommodating camp hosts, and the campground's quiet and serene atmosphere. Visitors also appreciated the well-maintained...
Based on 83 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Notable complaints include noise from generators, inconsistent cleaning of bathrooms, lack of cell phone service, and overgrown sections of trails. Some visitors also expressed dissatisfaction with...
Based on 83 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
1. Bring bug repellent to protect against ticks and chiggers.
2. Arrive prepared for the lack of cell service.
3. Book in advance for lake-view sites.
4. Bring your own firewood, as it is not sold...
Based on 83 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is quieter and more serene in off-peak seasons but becomes busier and noisier during hunting season. Summer visits may be challenging due to heat and lack of electricity for air...
Based on 83 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The campground was serene prior to hunting season.'
2. 'The camp host was a perfectionist at keeping the bathhouse clean.'
3. 'Swimming is not recommended due to alligators and snakes.'
4. 'The...
Based on 83 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 14: 'Decent spacing with vegetation providing privacy.'
Site 15: 'Sparse pine trees allowed for Starlink connection, but not much privacy.'
Site 18: 'Supposed to be lakeside but lacked direct...
Based on 83 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
The campground is noted for its level terrain and accessible layout, though no specific features for disabled visitors are highlighted in reviews.
Based on 83 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and the campground is pet-friendly. However, visitors should keep their pets leashed to avoid encounters with local wildlife.
Based on 83 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025