Camping near DeFuniak Springs with horseback riding
For laid-back hiking, springs, and lake access in the Panhandle, head to DeFuniak Springs.
- DeFuniak Springs
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Camping near DeFuniak Springs with horseback riding guide
Overview
DeFuniak Springs is an easygoing town at the heart of the Florida Panhandle, where nature lovers can swim in springs, hike through scenic refuges, and reach the Gulf Coast’s white-sand beaches on a day trip. In addition to vineyards and lakes with bass fishing, this hidden gem has spacious campgrounds and uncrowded parks, especially during the Panhandle’s peak visitor seasons in winter and spring break. Multiple RV resorts with full hookups are set in the area, making DeFuniak Springs a great home base to explore the surrounding wilderness.
Where to go
DeFuniak Springs Surrounds
About 15 minutes east of town, the Ponce De Leon State Park allows visitors to swim in its 68°F spring waters. Morrison Springs County Park is also a great spring site for swimming and diving.
Econfina Creek Wildlife Management Area
This wildlife preserve east of DeFuniak Springs and just north of Panama City has a 14-mile stretch of the Florida Trail for hikers to explore. Birders come looking to spot bald eagles, osprey, kestrels, and warblers, while the spring-fed Econfina Creek is popular with kayak and canoe paddlers, and sites like Pitt and Sylvan Springs are accessible for swimming.
Falling Waters State Park
Forty minutes east of DeFuniak Springs, Falling Waters State Park is home to Florida’s tallest waterfall. The peaceful forested campground offers campsites with picnic tables and fire rings.
Gulf Beaches
DeFuniak is about an hour from an excellent stretch of Gulf Coast beaches with warm water and white quartz sand. Henderson Beach State Park in Destin has 30-foot sand dunes, while Grayton Beach State Park near Seaside features freshwater dune lakes and hiking trails. Both parks have campgrounds and great beaches for sunbathing. An offshore artificial reef system creates numerous opportunities for snorkelers and scuba divers to gaze at tropical fish—Destin has a variety of rental shops.
When to go
DeFuniak is a bit more seasonal than parts of Florida further south—winter low temps are in the upper forties, and summer high temps have a bit less bite and humidity. This makes for solid year-round camping, but make sure you have warm gear in winter and rain protection year-round. During hurricane season in summer and fall, Florida campers should keep an eye on the National Hurricane Center’s Atlantic Outlook to avoid any potential storms.
