Camping Under the Stars: Wakulla County’s Top Campgrounds

If your idea of paradise includes a crackling fire, starlit skies, and waking up in nature, then Wakulla County should be on your camping bucket list. Tucked away in Florida’s scenic Panhandle, this outdoor haven is home to some of the best campgrounds in Florida for families, RV travelers, and winter tent campers alike.

Whether you’re pitching a tent under the pines or pulling in with your RV, Wakulla’s campgrounds offer convenient access to springs, rivers, forests, and the Gulf Coast—all just 30 minutes south of Tallahassee.


Why camp in Wakulla?

With its mild winters, abundant wildlife, and proximity to state parks, Wakulla is a hidden gem for camping in northwest Florida. Visitors can kayak spring-fed rivers, hike quiet forest trails, fish from coastal piers, and explore dark skies perfect for stargazing—all in one weekend.

Seasonal Tip:

Winter tent camping in Wakulla is ideal for those looking to escape colder climates while still enjoying crisp air, fewer bugs, and quiet campgrounds.

👉 Explore all Wakulla campgrounds at https://www.visitwakulla.com/places-to-stay/campgrounds-rv/


Top Campgrounds in Wakulla County

Ochlockonee River State Park

Scenic view from a campsite at Ochlockonee River State Park in Wakulla County, Florida, featuring a moss-covered tree overlooking the calm river and pine forest in the background.

A favorite for nature lovers, this state park offers riverside tent sites and RV hookups surrounded by longleaf pines.

Amenities:

  • Electric and water hookups
  • Restrooms and hot showers
  • Canoe/kayak launch
  • Hiking and wildlife viewing

📍 Address: 429 State Park Road, Sopchoppy, FL 32358


Newport Park Campground

Entrance sign for Newport Park & Campground in Wakulla County, Florida, surrounded by tall pine and oak trees under a clear blue sky.

Located along the scenic St. Marks River, Newport Park is a peaceful public campground perfect for RVs and boaters.

Amenities:

  • Full RV hookups
  • Boat ramp and dock
  • Fishing pier
  • Picnic pavilion

📍 Address: 8046 Coastal Hwy, St. Marks, FL 32355


Holiday Campground

Sunset photo overlooking the bay at Holiday Campground 
This privately-owned, family-friendly campground near Panacea offers direct access to the water and a welcoming community feel.

This privately-owned, family-friendly campground near Panacea offers direct access to the water and a welcoming community feel.

Amenities:

  • Tent and RV sites with hookups
  • Laundry and bathhouse
  • Pet-friendly
  • Pool & Shop
  • Bayfront access and sunset views

📍 Address: 3149 Coastal Hwy, Medart, FL 32346


Shell Island Fish Camp

Sunset view of fishing boats docked at a quiet marina in Wakulla County, Florida, with still water reflecting the orange and blue sky and surrounding trees.

Nestled on the banks of the Wakulla River in St. Marks, this rustic spot is ideal for anglers and RVers.

Amenities:

  • Full RV hookups
  • Marina and boat rentals
  • Fish cleaning stations
  • Motel and cabins also available

📍 Address: 1838 Shell Island Rd, St. Marks, FL 32355


Bayside Marina & RV

RV parked at Bayside Marina & RV in Panacea, Florida, with gravel campsites, palm trees, picnic tables, and a scenic waterfront view of the bay.

Located just off Ochlockonee Bay, Bayside Marina & RV is a waterfront RV resort offering the perfect mix of comfort, coastal charm, and access to world-class fishing. Whether you’re parking your RV for the weekend or planning a longer stay, this scenic spot is a favorite for winter travelers and families alike.

Amenities:

  • Full RV hookups with 30/50 amp service
  • Private marina and boat launch
  • Waterfront sites available
  • On-site laundry and shower facilities
  • Pet-friendly
  • Walking distance to local restaurants and the bay

📍 Address: 300 Coastal Hwy, Panacea, FL 32346


Things to Do Near Wakulla Campgrounds

Whether you’re camping near Wakulla Springs or staying along the coast, you’ll find no shortage of outdoor adventures nearby:


Plan Your Florida Camping Trip Today

Whether you’re traveling with family, solo, or as a couple, if you’re looking for top 10 campgrounds destinations in Florida, Wakulla County is the place for its natural beauty, peaceful settings, and outdoor accessibility.

☑️ Looking for campgrounds in the Florida Panhandle this fall or winter?
☑️ Want to try RV camping with water views or cozy tent camping under longleaf pines?

📍 Find your site and start planning your trip at https://www.visitwakulla.com/places-to-stay/

A Very Wakulla Christmas: Holiday Events & Festive Small-Town Charm

If you’re dreaming of a warm-weather Christmas getaway, look no further than Wakulla County. Just south of Tallahassee, this coastal region transforms into a charming holiday hub every December.

Complete with lights, parades, Santa sightings, and even snow (yes, snow in Florida!). Whether you’re planning a family road trip or looking for festive Christmas activities near you, Wakulla’s small-town celebrations offer something for everyone.


Christmas in Panacea – December 5 & 6, 2025

Join us for a full day of family-friendly holiday fun on Florida’s coast. From markets and Santa sightings to snow and a drone show over the bay, Christmas in Panacea is one of the region’s most festive traditions.

Community Tree Lighting in Panacea Town Square | Friday, December 5

📍 Time: 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Panacea Town Square

Kick off the holiday weekend with a cozy, small-town celebration at the Panacea Town Square. The annual Community Tree Lighting brings neighbors together for the official lighting of the town’s Christmas tree. It’s the perfect way to ease into the holiday spirit before Saturday’s big events.

Mistletoe Market at Panacea Community Garden | Saturday, December 6

📍 Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
📍 Location: Panacea Community Garden

Start your morning at the Mistletoe Market, where you’ll find:

  • Handmade gifts and crafts
  • Holiday baked goods and seasonal snacks
  • Local vendors and community artisans
  • Live music and festive entertainment throughout the day

Family Activities & Refreshments at Woolley Park | Saturday, December 6

📍 Time: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Woolley Park

Bring the whole family for free, kid-friendly fun including:

  • Bounce houses and carnival games
  • Face painting
  • Holiday music and performances
  • Free refreshments and snacks
  • Santa mingling with visitors and posing for photos (4:00-5:30pm)

Let It Snow in Florida | All Afternoon

Experience snowfall in the Sunshine State with snow machines creating a winter wonderland atmosphere right in Panacea.

Visit with Santa | 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM

Don’t miss your chance to snap a photo with Santa as he strolls through the park spreading cheer.

Parade of Lights | 6:00 PM

Enjoy a festive holiday parade featuring:

  • Lighted floats
  • Local performers
  • Holiday music

A Wakulla County favorite that draws families from all around.

Drone Light Show Over Dickerson Bay | After the Parade

End the night with Panacea’s first-ever drone light show, a silent and stunning visual display of holiday magic in the sky.

  • Colorful LED drones choreographed to festive patterns
  • Reflections over the water at Dickerson Bay
  • A peaceful, modern finale to the holiday celebration

📍 VisitPanacea.org for full event info


Christmas in Sopchoppy – Saturday, December 13

Sopchoppy delivers the ultimate small-town holiday vibe with two unforgettable events in one day.

Vendors selling handmade holiday gifts and artisan soaps at the Christmas market in Sopchoppy, Florida

Christmas in Sopchoppy Festival

📍 Time: 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 Location: Sopchoppy Depot Park

Held at Sopchoppy Depot Park, this free festival includes:

  • Handmade crafts and holiday vendors—perfect for last-minute shoppers
  • Food trucks and festive treats

Sopchoppy Opry – A Country Gold Christmas

📍 Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📍 Location: Sopchoppy High School Auditorium


Wrap up your day with a holiday concert at the historic Sopchoppy High School Auditorium (164 Yellow Jacket Ave). Enjoy classic country hits with a seasonal twist, performed by talented local musicians.

🎟 Book your tickets at SopchoppyOpry.com. Proceeds go toward the restoration of this historic venue.


St. Marks Golf Cart Christmas Parade – Saturday, December 20

📍 Time: Line up at 7:00 PM | Parade begins 7:30 PM
📍 Location: Bo Lynn’s Grocery

For one of the most unique Christmas things near you, head to St. Marks on December 20 for the 19th Annual Golf Cart Christmas Parade.

St. Marks Christmas Golf Cart Parade in Wakulla County featuring decorated carts and holiday lights outside Bo Lynn’s Grocery.

Decorated golf carts, festive music, and community spirit fill the streets of this beloved riverfront town. It’s a can’t-miss tradition that captures the heart of Wakulla’s coastal charm.


Why Wakulla is One of the Best Places to Visit in December

Whether you’re escaping the cold or looking for classic holiday celebrations with a Southern twist, Wakulla County offers:

🎅 Friendly small towns with big holiday spirit
🏖️ Warm Gulf breezes instead of snowstorms
🎄 Family-friendly Christmas events all month long
🛍️ Local shopping at festive markets and vendor fairs
🍤 Fresh seafood you can eat year-round

If you’re searching for the best places to visit during Christmas or planning your holiday vacation in Florida, Wakulla is a hidden gem worth discovering.


Plan Your Christmas Vacation in Wakulla

From glowing drone shows to Christmas parades and holiday markets, Wakulla County has everything you need for a warm, memory-filled holiday season.

Mark your calendar, invite your friends, and join us for a December to remember. Start planning at VisitWakulla.com