Sand Pond Group Camp Pine Log State Forest
00 review5583-A Longleaf Road, Ebro, Florida, 32437, United States
Sand Pond Group Camp Pine Log State Forest
$5.00 - $35.00 / 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$35.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary based on site type and amenities. Primitive sites may exclude access to bathhouses, while group sites offer electric and water hookups.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Pine Log State Forest, Sand Pond Group Camp beckons young adventurers to discover Florida's natural wonders. This secluded retreat, designed specifically for youth organizations, provides an authentic wilderness experience away from the hustle of the main campground. Days here unfold with endless possibilities—cast a line into peaceful waters, traverse winding trails on foot or mountain bike, paddle through pristine waterways, or simply float in refreshing swimming holes. As twilight approaches, budding naturalists can train their binoculars on diverse bird species or capture the forest's wildlife through their camera lens, creating memories that last long after the campfire embers fade.
Sand Pond Group Camp supports a variety of camping styles. Options include primitive camping, RV sites, and tent camping. Some areas cater specifically to groups, and there are creek-side sites for primitive campers.
Historical SignificanceStep into a piece of Florida history at Pine Log State Forest, where conservation began its statewide journey in 1936. As the Sunshine State's pioneering state forest, these protected lands have served as a model for preservation efforts across Florida for nearly nine decades, safeguarding native ecosystems for generations of nature lovers to explore and cherish.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Florida's delightful seasonal rhythms at Sand Pond, where each time of year paints the forest in different hues. Winter arrives as a welcome respite, bringing crystalline blue skies and comfortable temperatures perfect for active outdoor pursuits. As summer unfolds, the forest transforms into a lush, verdant paradise where warm days invite water activities and the occasional afternoon thunderstorm provides nature's own dramatic performance, cooling the air and nourishing the landscape.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain of Sand Pond creates an accessible wilderness experience, where subtle changes in elevation reveal diverse ecosystems and hidden natural treasures throughout the campground.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a tapestry of Florida's most captivating ecosystems at Sand Pond Group Camp. Towering longleaf pines stretch skyward, their needle-carpeted floor creating natural cathedral spaces perfect for group gatherings. Venture deeper to discover the stark beauty of ancient sand hills, explore sun-dappled flatwoods teeming with native flora, and encounter mysterious cypress ponds where knobby knees rise from tea-colored waters. The enchanting titi swamps add an element of wild beauty, their twisted branches and seasonal blooms creating a photographer's paradise and a naturalist's dream.
Geological RegionSpanning an impressive 7,000 acres, Pine Log State Forest stands as a testament to Florida's geological diversity and natural heritage. This vast wilderness showcases the state's iconic sand hill communities, where ancient dunes tell stories of prehistoric seas, alongside expansive flatwoods that harbor countless species. Scattered throughout are shimmering cypress ponds and mystical titi swamps, each ecosystem seamlessly blending into the next to create one of Florida's most ecologically rich and visually stunning landscapes.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible showers and restrooms are available in the main campground. Some reviews mention that primitive sites 1 and 2 are walk-in only, which could be a limitation for campers with mobility issues.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as large and spacious, with concrete pads that are mostly flat and level.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Site #20 is highlighted as the most private, while site #9 is noted to lack privacy due to its proximity to site #8.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose waterfront sites for scenic views; site #14 is described as private, large, and ideal for relaxation.
Best CampsitesSite #20 is noted for privacy, while sites closer to the pond (e.g., #13) provide excellent waterfront views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not explicitly provided.
Check-out
Not explicitly provided.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limits are unspecified.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guests per site are unspecified.
Groups
The group site features areas for organized events. It is separated from the main campground and includes unique amenities such as picnic pavilions and a fishing pier.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are spaced out and feature concrete pads; waterfront sites are noted for scenic views.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through the website mentioned in user reviews.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-served availability is not explicitly stated, but reservation systems are highlighted.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not explicitly detailed.
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
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Sand Pond Group Camp is an activity-rich campground. Opportunities include fishing, hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, picnicking, swimming, bird watching, and photography. The trails are part of the Florida Scenic Trail and Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, offering designated pathways for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Hiking
Trails are well-marked and include options for different activities, such as the Crooked Creek and Faye & Dutch 5-mile bike trail. Some users note that trails can be under maintenance.Fishing
Fishing is available right behind many campsites, particularly those by the pond.Swimming
Swimming areas are part of the campground’s amenities, though details on lifeguards or conditions are not provided.Biking
Mountain biking trails are available, and e-bikes are popular for exploring the area.Boating
Canoeing and other boating activities can be enjoyed at the pond.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include bird watching and even lightning bug shows in the evening, as mentioned by users.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, though camping and hiking occur during colder months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed with provided rings and grills.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include muddy roads after heavy rain, mosquitoes in summer, and wildlife such as coyotes and snakes.
Active alertsSocial distancing measures limited site availability during some reviews. Dump station repairs are ongoing.
Weather forecast
85
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 65%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.2 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: 8505352888; closest hospital and police services are unspecified but likely in Panama City Beach.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates are not specified.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not detailed in the authoritative content or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground features ponds and a fishing pier. Some sites offer direct waterfront access.
Common complaintsSome complaints include dusty unpaved roads, muddy access in rain, and unclean bathrooms.
HostHosts are often praised for cleanliness and helpfulness, but some were noted as absent during certain visits.
Campground Map
5583-A Longleaf Road, Ebro, Florida, 32437, United States
Driving directionsFrom I-10 take Exit 112 for FL-79 S toward Panama City Beach. Head South on FL-79 for 29.8 miles. Turn right onto Environmental Road and proceed for 0.4 miles. Turn right onto Longleaf Road and proceed to the campground.
Access to the campground is via FL-79, then a short stretch of Environmental Road (0.4 miles), followed by Longleaf Road. Users have noted that some sections, particularly Environmental Road, can get muddy after rainfall.Nearby places
Panama City Beach (14 miles, approximately 20-25 minutes by car)
Nearby supplies
Walmart is approximately 15 miles from the campground, located near Panama City Beach.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Sand Pond Group Camp Pine Log State Forest has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, reviews describe Sand Pond Group Camp as clean, peaceful, and well-maintained, with spacious campsites and a range of recreational opportunities. The proximity to a pond and shaded sites are frequent highlights.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Campers frequently praise the cleanliness of the campsites, the serene atmosphere, spacious and well-shaded sites, and the variety of recreational options. The concrete pads are often noted as level...
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Common Concerns
Negative points include muddy roads during rain, occasional maintenance issues (e.g., submerged docks, locked bathrooms), and difficulties with the gate code. Some users experienced challenges with...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug repellant and be prepared for muddy roads if it rains. Keep the gate code handy for easy access. Site #20 is recommended for privacy, and site #14 offers great pond views.
Seasonal Insights
Winter months see fewer bugs, making camping more comfortable. Rain is a common issue year-round, affecting road conditions and dock usability.
Camper Quotes
"This was our first experience camping in Florida, and we will definitely be back!" "The group site was cleanest ever!" "The restroom/shower areas were immaculate." "The only negative is the road...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #20 is noted for privacy. Site #14 has great pond views but is less private. Site #9 and #8 are too close together, reducing privacy.
Accessibility Features
Primitive sites 1 and 2 require walking in, posing challenges for those with mobility issues.
Pet-Friendly Features
The campground is pet-friendly, but some users experienced disruptions from barking dogs in neighboring sites.
Last updated August 10, 2025