The best cave camping near Marianna

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Marianna is a quaint inland college town in the Florida panhandle. While it isn’t well known by many outdoor enthusiasts, Marianna is a gateway to a few natural wonders, including Florida Caverns State Park—the sunshine state’s only underground cave you can explore via tour. They also have the Blue Spring-fed crystalline kayaking destination of Merritts Mill Pond, where you can catch a glimpse of marine life floating right under your boat. Camping destinations are both lush and serene, with nature at your fingertips. Whether you’re a Florida native or just looking for something different, this town will surprise you.

100% (2) 41 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Marianna

Create Love Camp

1. Create Love Camp

8.4mi from Marianna · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We are a non profit building a community that rases money for reforestation and other projects. We are just getting the space set up here. -We are 10 min from the caves (they are very big a must see) -We are 10 min from the springs you can tube down so much fun we offer pick up and drop off for a fee -We have 3 cats and a wolfie dog -Its quiet and friendly.. welcome to a home away from home, your family while your here For an extra fee we -Can offer a fenced yard to keep dogs in when your out if needed for a fee -Have a camp fire built for you -Have a home cooked meals, smoothies, B-fast - Laundry service -Massage
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lakes and Springs Retreat

2. Lakes and Springs Retreat

100%
(2)
26mi from Marianna · 1 site
Welcome to our little rejuvenating heaven. This is what we want to offer you, a 2.5 acres of raw nature where you can relax, rejuvenate and enjoy the best that water and nature have to offer in Northwest Florida. You will be staying in a historic 32 ft 1954 New Moon trailer, the exact copy of the one in the movie The Long Long Trailer with Lucille Ball. Nothing less ! And don't forget to bring your kayaks, paddle boards, bikes and hiking shoes as there is a lot to do around here. Let's start with your accommodation: THE LONG LONG TRAILER If you ever wanted to stay in a vintage camper with a history, then this is it. You will be staying in a 32 ft 1954 New Moon trailer. The previous owner bought it in California and claimed it was one of the trailers used in the movie with Lucille Ball called The Long Long Trailer. We like to believe that we own a piece of American culture. The camper has water (cold only), electricity and a split ac unit. It has been partially renovated to keep the original feel and features as much as possible. It's an old lady that survived time, so we ask that you take good care of her as well to continue the legacy. BATHROOM - TOILET Inside the camper, there is a small bathroom with a sink, a small tub, and a toilet but for number ones only. For hot showers and number two's you will have access to a separate shared bathroom with an indoor toilet and a spacious enclosed outdoor shower. (See pictures) BEDROOM - BEDDING We just replaced the mattress with a brand new queen size memory foam mattress. So far everybody likes it. We only use cotton sheets for best comfort. There are 2 nightstands on each side of the bed with lamps and cellphone charger plugs. The bedroom has its own entrance door and a room divider can provide privacy from the rest of the camper. KITCHEN - APPLIANCES A comfortable kitchen area with a large sink and lots of cabinets. It's equipped with a microwave oven, toaster oven, hot water kettle and a gas stove. We also provide basic cookware, bowls and plates. Basic seasoning (good quality foods, always), paper towels, dish towels, sponges, dish soap. The cherry on the cake is the original 1954 fridge that is still working great. CLOSET A 2-door closet with hangers and a shelf and 3 storage compartments above the bed offer plenty of space for your clothing. CLEANING STUFF Basic cleaning products and gears are at your disposal inside the camper. We privilege non harsh chemical products to preserve human, animal and plant well-being. OUTDOOR SPACE In front of the camper you will find your own private area to chill out after a day of leisure in nature. You have a small table and 2 chairs as well as 2 comfortable armchairs. An umbrella is also provided. YARD - FIRE PIT We are still working on developing the property. Many parts are still undeveloped but every day we improve something. We have set up a fire pit with some lounge chairs around that you are welcome to enjoy when permitted by county regulations. HOT TUB AND LOUNGE AREA We just finished setting up the hot tub which is now ready to be enjoyed for an extra fee. Since it's an old model, and it is solar heated, you would have to tell us in advance the time you want to use it and we'll set it up at the right temperature for you. We allow one use per day for one hour. We have also an area with 2 lounge chairs if you want to soak in the sun during the day. PROPERTY ACCESS; We live in a very rural area that you can only access by a dirt road. The roads are well maintained and regular 2WD cars are fine. If you come from I-10 / Chipley via 77, count about 3 minutes of dirt road. If you come from CR20, it's about 10 minutes of dirt road. SPRING-FED LAKE Our property is located on the biggest spring-fed lake in Northwest Florida - Porter Lake. We do not have a view of the lake but we are less than 2 minutes away from the boat ramp where you can swim, launch your kayaks/canoes/paddle boards, and of course your motor boat as well. Many other lakes are very close by, just minutes away. If you like fishing, then you found your perfect haven spot. GORGEOUS EMERALD SPRINGS We are just less than 10 minutes away from 5 of the most beautiful cold water springs on the famous Econfina creek. Each site offers a parking area, picnic settings and easy access to the springs. You can swim there and also launch your own kayaks or rent them on site. YOUR NEIGHBORS We live in a camper on the same property about 20 yards distant from the New Moon trailer. But you will have all the privacy you need. We also have a few full time neighbors around the property, the rest of the lake community are family vacation homes. It means that outside the holidays it is a pretty quiet neighborhood. MORE DETAILS Please email us if you need more information. We hope we'll have the pleasure to welcome you soon.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Alliance Hill RV Resort (Age Restricted 50+)

3. Alliance Hill RV Resort (Age Restricted 50+)

13mi from Marianna
Nestled just a short drive from the historic town of Marianna, Florida, Alliance Hill RV Resort stands out as a premier destination for those seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure. This unique campground offers a serene escape with ample privacy, making it an ideal spot for families and solo travelers alike. Guests can enjoy a variety of nearby attractions, including the stunning Florida Caverns State Park and the picturesque Blue Springs State Park. Both locations provide opportunities for exploration, hiking, and swimming in natural springs. For golf enthusiasts, there are excellent courses nearby, ensuring a perfect day on the greens. At Alliance Hill, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of North Florida’s landscape. Experience the tranquil evenings under a canopy of twinkling stars and awaken to the cheerful melodies of birds at dawn. With its exceptional amenities and welcoming atmosphere, Alliance Hill RV Resort promises one of the finest RV vacation experiences in North Florida, catering to all your outdoor interests and leisure activities.
Florida Caverns State Park

4. Florida Caverns State Park

100%
(12)
State park 1.7mi from Marianna · 33 sites
From stalactite-filled caves to forest trails, natural wonders lie under and overground.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Apalachicola National Forest

5. Apalachicola National Forest

National forest 51mi from Marianna · 63 sites
Florida's largest national forest reveals the tropics’ ecological diversity on a vast scale.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

Marianna is a quaint inland college town in the Florida panhandle. While it isn’t well known by many outdoor enthusiasts, Marianna is a gateway to a few natural wonders, including Florida Caverns State Park—the sunshine state’s only underground cave you can explore via tour. They also have the Blue Spring-fed crystalline kayaking destination of Merritts Mill Pond, where you can catch a glimpse of marine life floating right under your boat. Camping destinations are both lush and serene, with nature at your fingertips. Whether you’re a Florida native or just looking for something different, this town will surprise you.

100% (2) 41 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Marianna

Create Love Camp

1. Create Love Camp

8.4mi from Marianna · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We are a non profit building a community that rases money for reforestation and other projects. We are just getting the space set up here. -We are 10 min from the caves (they are very big a must see) -We are 10 min from the springs you can tube down so much fun we offer pick up and drop off for a fee -We have 3 cats and a wolfie dog -Its quiet and friendly.. welcome to a home away from home, your family while your here For an extra fee we -Can offer a fenced yard to keep dogs in when your out if needed for a fee -Have a camp fire built for you -Have a home cooked meals, smoothies, B-fast - Laundry service -Massage
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lakes and Springs Retreat

2. Lakes and Springs Retreat

100%
(2)
26mi from Marianna · 1 site
Welcome to our little rejuvenating heaven. This is what we want to offer you, a 2.5 acres of raw nature where you can relax, rejuvenate and enjoy the best that water and nature have to offer in Northwest Florida. You will be staying in a historic 32 ft 1954 New Moon trailer, the exact copy of the one in the movie The Long Long Trailer with Lucille Ball. Nothing less ! And don't forget to bring your kayaks, paddle boards, bikes and hiking shoes as there is a lot to do around here. Let's start with your accommodation: THE LONG LONG TRAILER If you ever wanted to stay in a vintage camper with a history, then this is it. You will be staying in a 32 ft 1954 New Moon trailer. The previous owner bought it in California and claimed it was one of the trailers used in the movie with Lucille Ball called The Long Long Trailer. We like to believe that we own a piece of American culture. The camper has water (cold only), electricity and a split ac unit. It has been partially renovated to keep the original feel and features as much as possible. It's an old lady that survived time, so we ask that you take good care of her as well to continue the legacy. BATHROOM - TOILET Inside the camper, there is a small bathroom with a sink, a small tub, and a toilet but for number ones only. For hot showers and number two's you will have access to a separate shared bathroom with an indoor toilet and a spacious enclosed outdoor shower. (See pictures) BEDROOM - BEDDING We just replaced the mattress with a brand new queen size memory foam mattress. So far everybody likes it. We only use cotton sheets for best comfort. There are 2 nightstands on each side of the bed with lamps and cellphone charger plugs. The bedroom has its own entrance door and a room divider can provide privacy from the rest of the camper. KITCHEN - APPLIANCES A comfortable kitchen area with a large sink and lots of cabinets. It's equipped with a microwave oven, toaster oven, hot water kettle and a gas stove. We also provide basic cookware, bowls and plates. Basic seasoning (good quality foods, always), paper towels, dish towels, sponges, dish soap. The cherry on the cake is the original 1954 fridge that is still working great. CLOSET A 2-door closet with hangers and a shelf and 3 storage compartments above the bed offer plenty of space for your clothing. CLEANING STUFF Basic cleaning products and gears are at your disposal inside the camper. We privilege non harsh chemical products to preserve human, animal and plant well-being. OUTDOOR SPACE In front of the camper you will find your own private area to chill out after a day of leisure in nature. You have a small table and 2 chairs as well as 2 comfortable armchairs. An umbrella is also provided. YARD - FIRE PIT We are still working on developing the property. Many parts are still undeveloped but every day we improve something. We have set up a fire pit with some lounge chairs around that you are welcome to enjoy when permitted by county regulations. HOT TUB AND LOUNGE AREA We just finished setting up the hot tub which is now ready to be enjoyed for an extra fee. Since it's an old model, and it is solar heated, you would have to tell us in advance the time you want to use it and we'll set it up at the right temperature for you. We allow one use per day for one hour. We have also an area with 2 lounge chairs if you want to soak in the sun during the day. PROPERTY ACCESS; We live in a very rural area that you can only access by a dirt road. The roads are well maintained and regular 2WD cars are fine. If you come from I-10 / Chipley via 77, count about 3 minutes of dirt road. If you come from CR20, it's about 10 minutes of dirt road. SPRING-FED LAKE Our property is located on the biggest spring-fed lake in Northwest Florida - Porter Lake. We do not have a view of the lake but we are less than 2 minutes away from the boat ramp where you can swim, launch your kayaks/canoes/paddle boards, and of course your motor boat as well. Many other lakes are very close by, just minutes away. If you like fishing, then you found your perfect haven spot. GORGEOUS EMERALD SPRINGS We are just less than 10 minutes away from 5 of the most beautiful cold water springs on the famous Econfina creek. Each site offers a parking area, picnic settings and easy access to the springs. You can swim there and also launch your own kayaks or rent them on site. YOUR NEIGHBORS We live in a camper on the same property about 20 yards distant from the New Moon trailer. But you will have all the privacy you need. We also have a few full time neighbors around the property, the rest of the lake community are family vacation homes. It means that outside the holidays it is a pretty quiet neighborhood. MORE DETAILS Please email us if you need more information. We hope we'll have the pleasure to welcome you soon.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Alliance Hill RV Resort (Age Restricted 50+)

3. Alliance Hill RV Resort (Age Restricted 50+)

13mi from Marianna
Nestled just a short drive from the historic town of Marianna, Florida, Alliance Hill RV Resort stands out as a premier destination for those seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure. This unique campground offers a serene escape with ample privacy, making it an ideal spot for families and solo travelers alike. Guests can enjoy a variety of nearby attractions, including the stunning Florida Caverns State Park and the picturesque Blue Springs State Park. Both locations provide opportunities for exploration, hiking, and swimming in natural springs. For golf enthusiasts, there are excellent courses nearby, ensuring a perfect day on the greens. At Alliance Hill, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of North Florida’s landscape. Experience the tranquil evenings under a canopy of twinkling stars and awaken to the cheerful melodies of birds at dawn. With its exceptional amenities and welcoming atmosphere, Alliance Hill RV Resort promises one of the finest RV vacation experiences in North Florida, catering to all your outdoor interests and leisure activities.
Florida Caverns State Park

4. Florida Caverns State Park

100%
(12)
State park 1.7mi from Marianna · 33 sites
From stalactite-filled caves to forest trails, natural wonders lie under and overground.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Apalachicola National Forest

5. Apalachicola National Forest

National forest 51mi from Marianna · 63 sites
Florida's largest national forest reveals the tropics’ ecological diversity on a vast scale.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

Marianna camping guide

Where to go

Florida Caverns State Park

There’s a lot more to Florida than beaches, and this state park proves it. Right in Marianna, Florida Caverns State Park offers day tours, where visitors can descend below the earth’s surface, see rare geologic formations up close, and learn about the cave’s history while possibly encountering creatures such as bats, mice, salamanders and more. Tickets for tours must be purchased in person, so be sure to plan ahead and go early.

Merritts Mill Pond

Those familiar with Florida know that its natural springs are its best-kept secret. Florida has a massive natural spring network throughout the state, and Merritts Mill Pond is one place where those springs flow to the surface for us to enjoy. Like other springs in the state, this pond offers clear views to the bottom, making it a haven for diving, paddling, fishing and swimming. There are a few points where you can access Merritts Mill Pond, but the closest to Marianna is Jackson Blue Springs Recreation Area, about 10 minutes from town. Keep in mind that this is a seasonal access point, which opens in May and closes on Labor Day.

Hinson Conservation and Recreation Area

This is a great area to visit if you’re looking to explore and adventure in Florida’s wild spaces. Nestled along the Chipola River, Hinson Conservation and Recreation Area has plenty of options to paddle and look for wildlife, especially birds and fish (and maybe the occasional alligator). You can also hike along the water for a serene stroll that likely won’t include many other people. Check out Alamo Cave to see a natural bridge and enjoy even more underground action.

When to go

This part of Florida is nice anytime of year, but keep in mind that things will be hotter, and more crowded, in the summertime. Another reason to think about visiting in the cooler months, instead of summer or on spring break, is that it’ll increase your chances of seeing manatees: they’re most active in Florida’s springs from December to April. Lastly, consider spring break a factor when booking your cave tickets, as they do sell out during the busier months.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field