High Bluff Campground Lake Talquin State Forest
00 review2565 High Bluff Landing Rd, Midway, Florida, 32351, United States
High Bluff Campground Lake Talquin State Forest
$10.00 - $16.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
The base camping fee is $10 per night, with an additional fee of $6 for reservation costs when booked through ReserveAmerica.
About this campground
Escape to the untamed beauty of High Bluff Campground, where primitive camping meets pristine wilderness in the heart of Lake Talquin State Forest. This back-to-basics retreat invites adventurers to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature. Cast your line from the fishing pier, launch your boat into the tranquil waters, or gather around crackling campfires at your picnic table as stars emerge overhead. With only the essentials—fire rings, grills, and vault toilets—you'll find everything you need and nothing you don't. Leave behind electricity, running water, and the rush of daily life for an authentic outdoor experience that reminds you why camping is about the journey, not the amenities.
High Bluff Campground offers primitive camping for both tents and RVs. There are no designated group camping areas or cabin rentals.
Historical SignificanceHigh Bluff Campground serves as a gateway to two of Florida's most treasured trail systems. As part of the legendary Florida Scenic Trail, it connects adventurers to a statewide journey through diverse ecosystems and natural wonders. The campground also sits along the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, making it a premier destination for nature enthusiasts eager to spot rare birds and observe Florida's incredible biodiversity in its natural habitat.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Florida's most comfortable camping weather at High Bluff, where each season paints the forest in different moods. Winter brings crisp, dry days perfect for hiking, with temperatures hovering around a pleasant 65°F. Spring and fall offer that goldilocks weather—not too hot, not too cold—ideal for all your outdoor adventures. Summer transforms the forest into a lush, green sanctuary where temperatures climb to 90°F, creating those classic muggy Southern days best spent lounging by the lake or seeking shade under ancient oaks. While occasional rain showers sweep through to refresh the landscape, extreme weather is rare, making any time a good time to pitch your tent.
ElevationWhile modest by mountain standards, the rolling terrain of High Bluff offers surprising topographical diversity for Florida camping. The landscape rises and falls across gentle hills, with elevation changes reaching up to 100 feet throughout the region—a rarity in the Sunshine State that creates scenic vistas and varied hiking experiences you won't find in typical Florida flatlands.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living postcard where ancient live oaks draped in Spanish moss stand sentinel over your campsite, their gnarled branches creating natural cathedral ceilings. Towering pine forests whisper in the breeze while Lake Talquin's waters lap gently at the shoreline, offering endless opportunities for reflection—both literal and figurative. This is where Florida's wild heart beats strongest, where curious foxes might tiptoe past your tent at dawn, graceful deer emerge from morning mists, and the campground's friendly resident possum makes regular evening appearances, reminding visitors they're guests in a thriving ecosystem.
Geological RegionDiscover camping in one of Florida's most geologically fascinating regions at High Bluff, nestled within the Tallahassee Hills—a rare physiographic wonderland where dramatic elevation changes create a landscape unlike anywhere else in the state. Lake Talquin State Forest showcases nature's diversity with its mosaic of ecosystems: from sun-dappled upland pine forests to mysterious swamp bottomlands, from ancient sand hills that tell stories of prehistoric seas to temperate hardwood forests that rival any in the Southeast. With elevation swings of up to 100 feet carving valleys and ridges throughout the forest, this dynamic terrain offers camping adventures that defy Florida's flat reputation.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVaulted restrooms and boat ramps have handicap accessibility, but detailed accessibility features for camping sites are not provided.
Sites SizeMost sites are described as primitive and suitable for both tent and RV camping. However, some reviewers noted certain campsites are small and close together.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary; some sites are reported to be small and close together, while others offer more seclusion. One reviewer suggested reserving multiple sites for added privacy.
Total Campsites25 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUser reviews suggest reserving multiple sites for privacy as some sites are close together.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsite numbers are mentioned.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive nights allowed per reservation is unknown.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum number of guests per site is unknown.
Groups
There are no designated group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of raised gravel parking pads framed with wood and numerous shaded sites under trees.
Open and Closed SeasonYear-round operation is implied but not stated explicitly.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via ReserveAmerica.
Walk-in AvailabilityHigh Bluff Campground operates on an honor system; walk-up availability is possible if sites are not reserved in advance.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation rules are not explicitly stated in the provided information.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational activities at High Bluff Campground include fishing, boating, kayaking, hiking, picnicking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, and photography. The campground is adjacent to a hunting area and offers easy access to Lake Talquin's waters.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available, with trails allowing for exploration of the surrounding forest. One reviewer commented, 'Plenty of trails for any hikers.'Fishing
Fishing is a highlight at the campground, with Lake Talquin providing opportunities to catch catfish and bass. A fishing pier is available, and fishing requires a valid license. One user mentioned, 'Plenty of catfish and a few monster bass await.'Biking
Biking is permitted on open roads within Lake Talquin State Forest but is not allowed on designated hiking or equestrian trails.Boating
Boating activities, including canoeing and kayaking, are supported. The campground provides a boat ramp for lake access.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife commonly seen includes foxes, deer, squirrels, and a resident possum. Occasional sightings of black bears have been reported in the adjacent forest.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not detailed in the source materials.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and kayaking are supported.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted in the provided fire rings/grills.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned but weekend noise disturbances have been reported.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews mention wildlife hazards such as alligators in the lake and occasional black bears in the adjacent forest. The dirt road leading to the campground can become challenging during wet weather.
Weather forecast
85
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 59%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 0.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Partly cloudy
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 Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare and local ranger stations accessible within approximately 20 miles.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates are not specified.
Trash and recyclingThere is no mention of on-site trash or recycling facilities; one reviewer noted the presence of trash at their site during their stay.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Lake Talquin, offering access for fishing, kayaking, and boating.
Common complaintsUser reviews report issues with cleanliness (trash left at sites) and noise disturbances due to weekend parties. Facilities such as picnic tables and grills are described as worn and sometimes covered in spiderwebs.
Campground Map
2565 High Bluff Landing Rd, Midway, Florida, 32351, United States
Driving directionsFrom I-10 take exit 181 (Fl. 267) proceed south 0.4 mile to Spooner Rd.; turn left, take Spooner Road 2.5 miles to Old Federal Highway and turn left. Take Old Federal Hwy 2.3 miles and turn right on state Hwy 268/High Bridge Rd. Take Hwy 268 for 4.3 miles, and turn right onto Peters Rd. Take Peters Rd 1.1 miles until it becomes High Bluff Landing Rd. Continue 2.6 miles on a dirt road to the campground.
The campground is accessible via a dirt road for the last 2.6 miles, which may present challenges during wet conditions. It is not suitable for vehicles with low clearance.Nearby places
Tallahassee: 20 miles, Quincy: null, Havana: null
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained from Tallahassee, about 20 miles away. Grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel are located in this city.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
High Bluff Campground Lake Talquin State Forest has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of High Bluff Campground highlight the serene and peaceful atmosphere, the variety of outdoor activities, and the primitive nature of the facilities. Many appreciate the proximity to Lake Talquin for fishing and boating, but complaints include insufficient maintenance, occasional noise from parties, and lack of basic amenities like water and showers.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Reviewers frequently praised the campground's tranquility, proximity to Lake Talquin, and suitability for fishing and kayaking. One reviewer noted, 'The night sky is amazing, the lake was beautiful.'
Common Concerns
Common complaints include lack of maintenance (e.g., 'tables and grills are all rot and covered by spiderwebs'), trash left by previous campers, and noise from parties, particularly on weekends....
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend visiting during weekdays to avoid weekend noise and parties. They also advise bringing all necessary supplies, including water, as the campground lacks such amenities. For better...
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Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest the campground is quieter and more enjoyable during the off-season or weekdays. Summer months may see higher activity levels and occasional parties.
Camper Quotes
1. 'It's a very quiet place to overnight but be aware cause there's no bathroom, no water, no electricity, no dumpster station.'
2. 'Beautiful place to camp, very peaceful.'
3. 'The campground became...
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Site-Specific Reviews
While specific campsite numbers are not referenced, some sites are noted for being small and close together. Others are described as having better shade or privacy.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are briefly mentioned, with a fishing pier and boat ramp noted as handicap accessible, but detailed user feedback on accessibility is lacking.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted, and reviewers have shared positive experiences bringing their dogs. One user mentioned walking their dogs along the dirt road leading to the campground.
Last updated August 10, 2025