The best camping in St. Marks River Preserve State Park, FL

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Discover the natural splendor of St. Marks River Preserve State Park.  

The best camping in St. Marks River Preserve State Park, FL

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
SandyLand Farmstay GlampingTherapy

3. SandyLand Farmstay GlampingTherapy

97%
(71)
9.2mi from St. Marks River Preserve State Park · 33 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tallahassee, FL
NEW farm- ADD on Generator A/C rentals Text Sandy at 850-363-8665 to discuss any questions or animals coming, before booking… Especially horses. We’re a FARMHER owned micro-farm in Northeastern Tallahassee within a few miles from I-10. The farm is a back-to-nature wellness glamping facility, in the city. We believe in enjoying the abundance of nature, with a few creature comforts. THE FARM- The farm started in the late 1800’s and has remained untouched since 2012, when the family farmhouse burnt. The farm's infrastructure is still present today, and we’ve started to uncover it after 20+ years. Purchased in 2023, Our new farm will provide a place to learn about sustainability as we practice being a good steward of the land. The backbone of the farm. We aim to serve the growing interest in ECOtourism & AGRItourism, by educating the public with farm tours. We will practice *Permaculture * Food forest *Low carbon footprint *Regenerative Farming & Rotational Grazing with *HERITAGE animals. Most of our HERITAGE animals are “MINI” and part of our traveling therapy program (zoo). The farm animals aid in the conservation efforts and create awareness of historic farm animals going EXTINCT, due to industry practices. (livestockconservancy.com) Every acre of the farm is a unique experience and our “special places” create lasting memories. Our favorite is “The Manger”. We plan to restore the old cattle shoot, holding pens and “manger” structure. In the future it will be a historical therapy petting zoo. We love our animals and they all serve multiple purposes on the farm. The farm’s one of the last larger parcels, undeveloped, in the area. Two miles from I-10 interchange, NEW Tractor Supply, Wendys, Amazon, and a new Gas station. Founded on the love of animals and a passion for sustainability, we remain committed to compassionate practices and the most natural care of our land and animals as possible. As stewards of the land and herd, we believe we have a responsibility to share nature's blessings. We offer several agritourism opportunities on the farm, from farm stays to day visits. It is our goal to create a space where our visitors can have fun and learn about the animals who share that space. We also strive to serve as a valuable resource for first time goat owners. To support that endeavor, we sell chicken eggs, specialty cottage goods, Our goal is to provide a perfect balance of peaceful connection with self and nature coupled with a connection to community. FURRY FRIENDS OVERNIGHT **Most of our rentals will offer private paddocks for their horses- limited spaces while we expand. IF YOU HAVE A HORSE TRAILER, ASK ABOUT SITES OR PARKING. *All horses staying overnight must pay overnight board fee.*Ask about available paddocks/round pens. * Trail/schooling fee not included. Horse transporters, competitors, staycations, evacuees, anyone traveling I-10, or nearby, will have a place to stay with your horses. Transporters can come in LATE and leave EARLY, after horses can stretch & rest. Horse staycations allow a chance to vacation with horses, or seek shelter from a storm. Horse competitors going to local show barns need horse boarding too. COME SEE US. Dog competitors and owners- Dog owners preferring not to stay at a hotel or relatives, when visiting. Dog competitors coming to Tallahassee or traveling through can come where there’s space for dogs to run. **WARNING** We are a new WORKING FARM. We are now open to the public but please understand we are working everyday to make improvements. Its not perfect but we think you’ll love it. You will see and hear all the farm sounds! You can pet the goats and we have animal experiences available to bottle feed them. It's always a big hit and makes great photos. Come and de-stress by snuggling our goats. These bouncing bundles of joy are guaranteed to make you smile! There are chickens and guinea fowl that are all personable and love to be fed. We also have two mini therapy certified horses, and two mini ZEBU cows that love to eat from your hand. We offer farm tours!!! There are livestock guardian dogs that protect the farm. They sleep lots during the day and patrol at night so they BARK lots at night... **Again we are a REAL WORKING FARM. SIGN UP for the animal feeding experience. It’s an upclose experience to help hand feed the whole herd, collect eggs and learn all about our special animals and see all the unique personalities we have here on the farm. If you are real adventurous you can help around the farm!!! LOCATION- We are located in northeast Tallahassee and only about twenty minutes from FSU stadium - straight shot! We love to host parents and students! Great weekend getaway! ***We also offer primitive camping sites as well in The Orchard area. No electric at campsites. WATER is available. *Need room for more occupants?? See optional add-ons for rental tent/screen rooms we will set up to allow for additional occupants at our units. Or pay small tent fee to bring your own and place near your site. KITCHEN- *We have a small outdoor kitchen area with grill, griddle, stove, utensils, and picnic table. Basic cooking supplies are provided in your unit (oil, salt, pepper, etc) basic cookware, utensils, disposable and washable cups and plates. You are welcome to pick from the garden when its complete. There is also a common area, to eat and hang out. We will soon have a community fire pit for all to enjoy. BATHHOUSE- In the Homestead area we have a small rustic community bath house with a hot shower and a running toilet. Soap, shampoo, conditioner, and fresh towels provided. The Primitive Orchard area has cold water faucets and compost toilet. Both bath houses are close to all overnight areas. CHECK IN/Check-out time may be flexible depending upon concurrent bookings! We ask that you clear your campsite by 11am, but you are welcome to spend the remainder of the day hanging out with the goats, riding or just relaxing. Check in time is 2pm or later. Unless you are a returning guest please arrive before 7pm. (ALL late arrivals must be approved ahead of time, unless emergency.) Late arrivals interfere with our chore routine and it’s hard to stop and show you around. Thank you. Feel free to message if you have questions! The herd looks forward to meeting you!! PARKING- Temporary UNLOADING/LOADING- Parking for one vehicle near site. Must park in nearby guest parking afterwards. It is for the safety of our animals. We have too many free roaming animals. Thank you for understanding. BUGS- Please be aware that beginning in mid-May for about six weeks is yellow fly season in north Florida! Mosquitos are around all the time but heavier near wet areas. Note: This is Florida and a rustic farmstay. There are bugs and spiders on the property. One may even end up in the domes or tents. Please understand this before complaining about bugs. I want to make sure everyone knows it happens! We love our domes and tents, but you should know this isn't an apartment in the city :)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$37
 / night
Magnolia Mountain

4. Magnolia Mountain

100%
(119)
14mi from St. Marks River Preserve State Park · 4 sites · Tents · Tallahassee, FL
Private campsite in the middle of the city! My family and I were lucky enough to find a four acre urban forest less than two miles from FSU, the Florida Capitol and downtown Tallahassee. And just a mile from midtown! We are welcoming tent campers to come experience camping in an urban forest. The camping area has a hot water shower and sink, and the main site (#76), is fully outfitted with fire ring, tent pad, fresh water, a picnic table and plenty of hammock trees! The camp area has space for up to 6 tent campers and 2 cars. All sites share the shower and sink areas and a port-o-potty that is professionally cleaned weekly. Sprinter style vans (UPDATE) - We successfully had a Sprinter Van on the site and have now started accepting booking for that style van. Due to limitations on space and clearance, we can only allow vans with a max of around 10 1/2' tall and 23' long. This is equivalent to a Sprinter 170. We can not fit RVs or extended wide bodies conversions. Pets: Pets on leashes are allowed on the property. Guests with aggressive animals will be asked to leave.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$33
 / night
Golden Acres Ranch

6. Golden Acres Ranch

100%
(11)
21mi from St. Marks River Preserve State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Monticello, FL
We are a small 50 acre ranch in the panhandle of Florida. Most of our property is pasture. Our mile-long driveway is lined with Oak Trees. We also have a few acres of Mayhaw trees in a seasonal pond. We raise Miniature Tennessee Fainting Goats to sell as family pets. We pasture a half dozen sheep for wool, live with several Peafowl for beauty and entertainment, and a couple dozen Guinee Fowl for pest control and more entertainment. A hundred and twenty-five chickens supply us with plenty of eggs. A dozen ducks offer up a few eggs a day as well. You can pet the goats and Baboy, our Potbellied pig. Walking in the pastures offers a glimpse at the local variety of flowers, birds, and insect life. Stay away from the dozen bee hives we watch over. This is a very quiet and welcoming place. We do have three Great Pyrenees gradian dogs roaming the property at night. They are mostly quiet but can occasionally spend a bit of the night barking and chasing predictors. Coyotes, foxes, and raccoons are better just off the property. Hang out, relax, read, and feed the goats. Monticello has some great restaurants, antique shops, a well-equipped sporting goods store, and a hardware store. If you are a cyclist, there are hundreds of miles of clay roads through the North Florida and South Georgia countryside. There are very few cars and lots of views. We have some routes to share. The clear-water spring-fed Wacissa River is nearby. Bring your own canoe or kayak, or rent one from one of the businesses at the head of the river. The Aucilla River is also nearby. Both are world-class trips. We can offer advice and guide services. Visit GoldenAcresRanchFlorida.com for more information. We are also a highly rated Harvest Host site.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
Bottle babies

9. Goat House Farm

97%
(497)
29mi from St. Marks River Preserve State Park · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tallahassee, FL
Goat House Farm is a 501(c)3 owned micro-farm in a rural area of Tallahassee on the beautiful Lake Talquin. The farm has its humble beginnings in the summer of 2015 with four acres, four goats, and four chickens. Founded on the love of animals and a passion for sustainability, we remain committed to compassionate practices and the most natural care of our land and animals as possible. As stewards of the land and herd, we believe we have a responsibility to share nature's blessings. We offer several agritourism opportunities on the farm, from farmstays to day visits. Our primary program is to serve area youth with agricultural education and the opportunities to work with our goats. All proceeds from bookings go toward our programming. It is our goal to create a space where our visitors can have fun and learn about the animals who share that space. We also strive to serve as a valuable resource for first time goat owners. To support that endeavor, we sell chicken eggs, specialty cottage goods, honey, and natural goat milk and honey products. We also sell raw goat milk (for pet consumption only, as per Florida law - Master Feed License #ZOO406).
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$20
 / night
Ed and Bernices Fish camp

10. Ed and Bernices Fish camp

96%
(24)
34mi from St. Marks River Preserve State Park · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · Hosford, FL
Ed and Bernices fish camp is located st 15810 NW county road 120. Hosford, Florida 32334. We kept the name of the camp. It is a historical site and has a long history. Everyone in this small community has stayed or put their boat in at this camp one time or another. We look forward to you visiting and enjoying your stay. Come and check it out.Learn more about this land:You'll have beautiful scenery! You'll be in the middle of The Ochlockonee river and forest. Plenty of hiking and natural walks, take a walk to the big sand bar to go for a swim. You'll find otters, birds, and gators surrounding you. A real Old Florida getaway! Find woods, wild life in a secluded location.  Close to I10 to commute to the surrounding towns for great restaurants, etc.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$41
 / night
The Outside Inn

12. The Outside Inn

99%
(233)
44mi from St. Marks River Preserve State Park · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Quincy, FL
Planted pine, orchard, untouched wetlands, walking trails, planted fields for wildlife viewing. Quiet and peaceful escape. Close to several state parks, including Torreya, Three rivers, Seminole, Florida Caverns, and Lake Talaquin forest. At this time I can host 1 RV or camper with full hook ups, 3 RV sites with power, water and 1 boondock (no power/water) site but large enough for an off-grid/self-sustainable RV. I'm always happy to show folks around and share the story. Please note: During the rainy season the grass may get a bit long at times. You can also expect to experience a wide variety of agricultural activities, outside of quiet hours of course. Born out of a dream that started 10 years ago when I acquired 40 acres of forgotten and unmanaged rural woods. Having dug right in with the help of the Florida Forestry Service, FWC, IFAS, NRCS and a very knowledgeable private forester; we developed a conservation management plan to restore it to its native state. The neighboring land became available and happily added another 40, I've learned so much on this amazing journey. 25K pines and a great deal of sweat equity later, it is time to share and encourage others to join in on the conservation efforts and make sure it's around for future generations.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$25
 / night
EL Q Farms

14. EL Q Farms

97%
(36)
46mi from St. Marks River Preserve State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Lee, FL
🌿 Escape to Nature at EL Q Farms! 🚐🌙 Welcome to EL Q Farms, your private getaway nestled in the heart of northern Florida! 🌲 What We Offer: ✔ Full Hookups – 50 & 30 amp power, water, and sewer ✔ Spacious Pull-Through RV Pad – Accommodates up to 40ft travel trailers ✔ Tent Camping – Cozy spots under the oaks & pines, plus bathhouse access ✔ Relax & Play – Charcoal grill + bean bag toss for some outdoor fun 🏞 Explore Nearby Adventures: ✨ Madison Blue Springs & Lafayette Blue Springs State Parks – Crystal-clear waters, swimming, paddling, scuba diving & more ✨ Suwannee River & Florida Scenic Trail – Just 10 minutes away for epic hikes & water activities ✨ Hunting & fishing near by - Your outdoor playground awaits! 🔥 Kick back, unwind, and soak in the peaceful Florida vibes. Whether you're here for a weekend escape, an extended stay, or just passing through, EL Q Farms is the perfect basecamp. 📅 Short & long-term rentals available. Book your spot today and get ready to reconnect with nature! Check us out on Instagram: @elqfarms TikTok: @el.q.farms
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$38
 / night
Scallop Tyme RV Campground.

16. Scallop Tyme RV Campground.

99%
(41)
47mi from St. Marks River Preserve State Park · 5 sites · RVs · Perry, FL
Scallop Tyme RV Campground was once an abandoned camp covered in worthless Sand Pines. There was a cabin and sheds in the center surrounded by chain link fence topped with barbwire. The timber was donated and used to fuel nearby electric plants. Once the four acres was cleared and cleaned, the idea of a RV campground started. During the early onset of Covid, my family remained in our adjacent camp because there was no Covid in the area and plenty of Covid at home. Cleaning and clearing the acreage gave us something to do. While cleaning the old, abandoned camp site inside the chain link fence; we found an old boat and motor, a Kawasaki motorcycle, and numerous civil war and Vietnam war memorabilia. The campground was opened in June 2020. Learn more about this land: Keaton Beach county boat ramp is 2 miles away. This area is known for great scalloping in the summer, red fish and trout year around. There are several guides in the area for your fishing or snorkeling pleasure. Amenities include fish cleaning table, BBQ grill, fire ring, and picnic table at each site.  Plenty of room to park your boat. Most of the RV sites are shaded. Sites 1, 2, and 5 are 50 amp. Sites 3 and 4 are 30 amp.  
Pets
Full Hookups
from 
$40
 / night
Gulf Coast RV Site

17. Gulf Coast RV Site

100%
(54)
47mi from St. Marks River Preserve State Park · 2 sites · RVs · Perry, FL
This is a private/ quiet site, away from the hustle and bustle. Take some time to enjoy the salt air along with picturesque sunsets. Launch a kayak or paddleboard. Keaton Beach is 1 mile away and Adams beach is about 4 miles north. Walter "B's" store on Beach Rd. has a small restaurant inside. Bike riding from the trail head at Keaton Beach boat ramp is a good way to get in some exercise and enjoy the natural Florida. Steinhatchee is 19 miles south of your location. Beach bums store is .5 miles from our site. Although hit by the hurricane last year, they are in the rebuild stage but still have all your essentials you may need, food truck, bait, fishing supplies, beer, ice, and many other essentials you may need to make your stay enjoyable. Learn more about this land: Pull up your RV, View stunning gulf sunsets, 1/2 mile to Keaton Beach boat ramp. General store 1/4 mile. 20 minutes to Steinhatchee. Keaton Beach pier is less than 1 mile. Golf cart friendly, great kayaking and paddling from your place and in the area. Scalloping is June through September. Airboat friendly. Visit the Steinhatchee Fiddler Crab Festival in February. Choice of 30 or 50 amp electric, sewage, and water. Out door shower, picnic table, 16' x 30' deck with railing, and 2 lights, to help with night time arrivals.
Pets
Full Hookups
from 
$50
 / night
Peter Jones Sink (~100 yards from campsite)

19. Glenn Farm

100%
(457)
91mi from St. Marks River Preserve State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Fort White, FL
The farm you’re camping on is one of the last family farms remaining in Columbia County and is named Glenn Farm after DV Glenn who married Hettie Lou Niblack in the 1930’s. Over the last 150 years it has been farmed by some of the county’s oldest families such as the Niblack and Ellis families. When DV Glenn came to Florida from his farm in Cairo, GA he took over the portion of the Niblack farm that was inherited by his wife Hettie Lou. At that time he was running native Florida cattle on over 6000 acres. Unfortunately, In 1951 he was killed in a hunting accident leaving his wife with the farm and 4 children (ages 4-11). In order to survive, Hettie Lou Niblack Glenn was forced to sell 5000 acres at $25 an acre. Holding a bachelors degree from Florida State College for Women, she was able to secure a job at the University of Florida as a secretary and with the money from the land sale she was able to raise her four children. Of the original farm, 600 acres remain intact and the Glenn family is trying to keep the farm as an agricultural operation. Your campsite is 1 of 4 spots (Arrowhead Sink, Dunagan’s Meadow, North Hall Pasture or Magnolia Sink). We also have a 1 bedroom Tiny home that used to be the farm office. Dunagan’s meadow is a pasture behind the old farmhouse (built in 1824), Magnolia sink and The North Hall Pasture are also on the main farm while Arrowhead Sink is on the edge of a hayfield about a mile down a dirt road. Glenn Farm is a place to come relax and experience a world that is rapidly disappearing. It is not a commercial campground.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Gulf Breezes Whispering Pines R.V.

20. Gulf Breezes Whispering Pines R.V.

100%
(11)
49mi from St. Marks River Preserve State Park · 4 sites · Perry, FL
Learn more about this land: Welcome to Gulf Breezes Whispering Pines R.V! We have two RV sites and a 40ft Luxury Montana Trailer, all featuring 50-30-20 electrical hookups, full water and sewer, and there is a private gate into the campsites off of Beach Road! Bikes and golf carts are welcomed in the community, and there's a 3-mile bike path and walking path to the beaches and other islands. This part of the Florida gulf coast is known for great redfish & trout fishing, and the best scalloping on the Gulf of Mexico! Bring your boat, we're only 3 miles from Keaton Beach Boat Ramp, and only about 1 mile from Dark Island Boat Ramp. Check out Roy's restaurant for a beautiful sunset dinner on the river, only about a 20 minute drive away in sleepy Steinhatchee. Enjoy the charms of small town Florida and escape from the sounds and stresses of the city!

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The best camping in St. Marks River Preserve State Park, FL guide

Overview

About

A journey into the heart of Florida's natural beauty, camping near St. Marks River Preserve State Park allows easy access to all manners of outdoor fun. Along the banks of the St. Marks River headwaters, this park unfolds as a serene escape, offering a picnic area, multi-use recreational spaces, and an intricate system of trails. Whether you're keen on hiking, horseback riding, or off-road bicycling, the park's trails promise an adventure through diverse landscapes.

As you traverse the park's road network, you'll be enveloped by upland pine forests, hardwood thickets, and the lush plant communities lining the river's banks. But it's not just the flora that captures the heart; the fauna here is equally enchanting. Tracks of black bear, turkey, and deer are common sights, hinting at the wildlife that thrives in these woods. As you explore, keep an ear out for the symphony of bird calls, and you might even spot a fox, raccoon, or opossum on your journey.

While the St. Marks River adds to the park's charm, it's worth noting that it's not navigable within the park's boundaries, making it unsuitable for canoeing or kayaking. Given the park's untouched nature, there are no amenities available. Campers are encouraged to come prepared, bringing their own water and essentials, ensuring a true wilderness experience.

When to go

The best time to visit St. Marks River Preserve State Park is during the cooler months, from October to April, when the Florida heat is more forgiving and the trails are most inviting. Summer months can be hot and humid, with a higher chance of rain, potentially impacting trail conditions and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Know before you go

  • St. Marks River Preserve State Park is open daily from 8am until sundown, 365 days a year.
  • There is no entrance fee required, making it an accessible adventure for all.
  • Prepare for wilderness hiking as there are no facilities within the park.
  • Bring plenty of water for hydration, especially during the warmer months.
  • Wildlife viewing is abundant, so bring your binoculars and keep an eye out for the park's diverse species.

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