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

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

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

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

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

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:

• 🚣 Paddle the Wakulla River from TNT Hideaway
• 🌊 Take a jungle cruise at Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park
• 🦋 Hike and birdwatch at St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge
• 🐟 Fish coastal waters from St. Marks or Panacea

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/

Looking for the perfect summer escape the whole family will love?

Wakulla County, Florida offers wide open spaces, sunny skies, and plenty of laid-back fun for every age. Whether your crew is craving nature walks, animal encounters, or a quiet afternoon under the trees, you’ll find something special waiting here.

From picnics and playgrounds to marine life adventures and lighthouse views, here are some top family-friendly things to do in Wakulla County this summer!

🧺 Picnic and Play at Local Parks

If you’re after an easy, low-cost day of fun, Wakulla’s local parks are the way to go. Hudson Park in downtown Crawfordville features a shaded playground, picnic tables, and even a splash pad to help beat the heat. It’s the perfect spot for an afternoon snack and play.

For something a little more scenic, head to Wakulla Springs State Park, where you can spread out a blanket beneath massive oak trees and watch for manatees surfacing in the clear spring water. Don’t forget your camera!

🌿 Explore St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge and St. Marks Lighthouse

Over at St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, you can explore trails, birdwatching boardwalks, and take in the sweeping view of the iconic St. Marks Lighthouse. It’s a chance to connect with nature, learn a little science, and snap some amazing family photos.

🔬 Learn Something New with Educational Adventures

Summer fun can be smart, too! The Gulf Specimen Marine Lab in Panacea is a hands-on marine life experience that kids (and adults!) won’t forget. Explore touch tanks with sea stars, hermit crabs, and even baby sharks. 🦈

📍 Plan Your Visit

Ready to pack up the kids and head out for summer fun? Explore all that Wakulla County has to offer—from sandy beach days to wild animal encounters and peaceful park afternoons.

🎟️ Discover More Family-Friendly Activities in Wakulla County Here!

Learn more about Gulf Specimen Lab’s programs, visit the aquarium, or explore other exciting Wakulla County events while you’re here!

Nestled in Florida’s Big Bend region, Wakulla County is a treasure trove of outdoor adventures, unspoiled nature, and fascinating history. Just a short drive south of Tallahassee, this peaceful slice of the Sunshine State offers a slower pace of life, where moss-draped oaks and winding waterways set the scene for unforgettable moments.

Whether you’re into paddling, birdwatching, sunbathing, or soaking up the local culture, this Wakulla County travel guide highlights the top places to visit and the best family-friendly things to do in Wakulla. Let’s dive into the must-see spots that make this area a hidden Florida gem.

1. Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park

No visit is complete without experiencing one of the most iconic Wakulla Springs attractions. As one of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world, Wakulla Springs offers a truly immersive nature experience.

• Riverboat tours glide over crystal-clear waters.
• Wildlife sightings include manatees, alligators, and dozens of bird species.
• The historic Wakulla Springs Lodge transports visitors to a bygone era of Florida tourism.

📍 Don’t miss: The ancient underwater cave system and the old-fashioned soda fountain inside the lodge—a true blast from the past.

2. St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge & Lighthouse

Spanning over 83,000 acres, this refuge is a haven for both wildlife and those who love to observe it. It’s especially popular with photographers and birders during migration seasons.

• Tidal creeks, salt marshes, and pine forests stretch to the horizon.
• The iconic St. Marks Lighthouse, dating back to 1831, provides one of the most scenic coastal views in the state.

🌅 Pro tip: Arrive early or stay late for a chance to photograph deer at dawn or sunset colors reflecting off the Gulf.

3. San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park

This lesser-known site is packed with history, making it a unique stop on your Wakulla County travel guide.

• Explore the ruins of a 17th-century Spanish fort.
• Visit the museum showcasing Civil War artifacts and Native American history.
• Walk peaceful trails along the river’s edge.

Perfect for curious minds and a must for history lovers looking for authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

4. Gulf Specimen Marine Lab in Panacea

Ideal for families and animal lovers, this interactive aquarium introduces guests to the marine life of the Gulf of Mexico.

• Touch tanks featuring sharks, rays, turtles, and horseshoe crabs.
• Educational tours are perfect for all ages.
• A great choice for a rainy day or a hands-on science adventure.

🦀 Fun fact: Many of the lab’s rescued animals are part of conservation efforts that support local marine ecosystems.

5. Ochlockonee River State Park

This is a dream destination for anyone who loves paddling, freshwater fishing or simply being surrounded by nature.

• Camp in tents or RVs under the stars.
• Try kayaking in Wakulla through cypress-lined riverways.
• Look out for rare white squirrels and majestic bald eagles.

Bring your fishing pole, hiking boots, or just a book to enjoy by the fire—this peaceful park is the definition of relaxation.

6. TNT Hideaway – Wakulla River Adventures

For a true “Old Florida” adventure, this family-run outpost offers some of the best kayaking in Wakulla.

• Rent a kayak or canoe for a self-paced paddle.
• Join a guided tour for expert wildlife insights.
• Encounter manatees up close in the wild.

💧 The calm, spring-fed waters make it beginner-friendly and ideal for all ages.

7. Cherokee Sink – Secret Nature Spot

Tucked within Wakulla Springs State Park, this secluded swimming hole feels like your own private escape.

• Towering limestone walls surround the deep emerald waters.
• Enjoy a picnic or hike along nearby wooded trails.
• An Instagram-worthy location for nature photography.

🌿 It’s not marked on every map—so you’ll feel like you discovered it yourself.

8. Wakulla Beach & Goose Creek Bay

Although it’s more rugged and less developed than traditional beaches, Wakulla Beach offers serene shoreline fishing and a true “Old Florida” vibe. It’s tucked away at the end of a long dirt road, making it a hidden treasure for anglers and birdwatchers.

• Fish for redfish, flounder, and trout in Goose Creek Bay.
• Launch a kayak for even better inshore access.
• Great spot for shelling, nature photography, and sunset views.

🌾 This is a quiet, untouched stretch of coastline—bring your gear and enjoy the solitude.

9. St. Marks River & Boat Ramp Access

If you’re looking for serious fishing in Wakulla County, the St. Marks River offers both saltwater and freshwater opportunities depending on how far you head downriver.

• Popular access points include the Newport Boat Ramp and St. Marks City Park.
• Cast for largemouth bass upriver or chase redfish and tarpon as you get closer to the coast.
• Ideal for both bank fishing and launching boats or kayaks.

🚤 Bonus: Wrap up your trip with lunch at a local seafood shack in downtown St. Marks—fresh catch guaranteed.

10. St. Marks Bike Trail

Stretching more than 20 miles from Tallahassee to St. Marks, this flat, paved trail is a hit with cyclists, joggers, and walkers alike.

• Ride beneath shady trees and enjoy peaceful rest stops.
• Spot deer, turtles, and other wildlife along the way.
• Reward yourself with fresh seafood in the charming fishing village of St. Marks.

🚴‍♀️ A great way to explore the area if you’re looking for active things to do in Wakulla County.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer escape, Wakulla County delivers a perfect mix of nature, adventure, and Southern charm. With its scenic rivers, historic landmarks, and quiet beaches, this guide to places to visit in Wakulla will help you make the most of your trip—one unforgettable stop at a time.

It’s no secret that Wakulla County is known for its endless natural attractions, but a rainy day in Wakulla could be a blessing in disguise. Use the day as an opportunity to visit some of the hidden gems in Wakulla. Just grab an umbrella and let your GPS guide you to one of these local hangouts.

Explore the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab

Beach or springs not in the cards for the day? Head over to Gulf Specimen Marine Lab in Panacea! It’s a unique, out-of-water experience that immerses you in nature without being outside. This hands-on experience gives you a glimpse of sea creatures that are native to the Northern Florida waters. After you hold horseshoe crabs and get up close with electric eels you may want to bring some of your adventure home. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop on your way out to take home a piece of the aquarium with educational children’s books or blown-glass sea creatures.

Grab a Gift from Sand and Soul Designs

This quaint local shop has every kind of trinket you can imagine. Sand and Soul offers niche items like handcrafted oyster shell and driftwood art, local Tupelo honey, one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces and lovely candles (We recommend the coffee one!). Store hours of operation are 12:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, and 10 a.m.to 4 p.m. on Saturday, where you can sip on an adult beverage while you shop!

Hang Out at Sopchoppy’s Civic Brewing Co

Worked up an appetite yet? Ready for a refreshing beverage? There’s no better place to get a drink than Civic Brewing in Sopchoppy. This family-friendly spot has delicious food, excellent drinks, and fun events like Bingo for you to enjoy. On your next rainy day, spend some quality time with your family and friends in this one of Sopchoppy’s most happening spots.

Discover Wakulla County’s Hidden Gems

Whether you want to do a little shopping or you’re ready for your afternoon pick-me-up, there are plenty of places in Wakulla County for you to explore. Head to Market 11 in Panacea or Beach Trader in St. Marks to see what unique treasures they have in stock, or pop into The Shack Coffee Boutique in St. Marks for a specialty latte, charcuterie snack, or glass of beer or wine.

Learn about Wakulla’s History

Looking for an educational activity to keep the family entertained? Head over to the Sopchoppy Train Depot to explore this 1900s landmark turned museum that’s filled with historical photographs, memorabilia, and artifacts. Thursday-Monday from 9 to 5, you can even head over to Fort St. Marcos de Apalache to visit this iconic Spanish fort and museum.

Rain or shine, Wakulla has something for everyone. Don’t waste your getaway being trapped in the hotel or campground. Find even more things to do by clicking the button below.

Find Things to Do

Imagine your perfect Spring Break vacation… you’re surrounded by nature, waking up to beautiful bird songs, paddling down a trail, eating the best seafood Florida has to offer, and watching a gorgeous sunset with your family. This dream vacation is waiting for you. In Wakulla County, fun is in our nature.

Located in the groove of the Florida panhandle, Wakulla is the hidden gem of the Big Bend region. A visit to Wakulla is every nature lover’s dream, a place with everything imaginable to give you the time of your life in the great outdoors. Here are our top 5 reasons to visit Wakulla County this year, making unforgettable memories for the entire family.

1. Adventures on the Water

If you’re drawn to the water, the possibilities are endless in Wakulla! With eight full-service marinas around the area, you can spend the day admiring the coastline, paddling or kayaking, or casting your line in the open waters. If you’ve got a ride of your own, take your pick of over 13 boat ramps to kick off your adventure on the Wakulla waters.

2. Fishing with Friends

Don’t have your own ride? No worries! Wakulla is full of all-inclusive fishing charters to guarantee the best fishing experience. Shell Island Fish Camp & Marina has some of the best professional Captains in the region to lead you, and Fightin’ Bottom Charters caters your excursion to the fish you want to catch (and eat!). The brackish areas also allow for fishing on the banks if you’d prefer to fish from land. There are so many options to choose from, your biggest issue will be finding it impossible to pick one! Fresh AND saltwater anglers unite here in Wakulla County.

3. Wildlife Watching

Miles and miles of trails run through Wakulla County. From regular nature trails to extended hiking ones, they all have beautiful and unique wildlife in common. St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge and the Ochlockonee River State Park are known for their winged friends, and what better way to start your day than with a peaceful and scenic walk, challenging hike, or relaxing bike ride while being serenaded by songbirds? If you’re lucky, you might even run into Pinky, Wakulla County’s beloved flamingo!

4. Seafood and More

Ditch the chains! Hidden gem towns like Wakulla are known for having the best local fare. Wakulla is full of locally-owned restaurants, with a wide variety of cuisine that’ll give everyone in your group plenty of tasty options. From true southern BBQ to fresh sea-to-table seafood, you’ll always have somewhere to eat that’s unique to your vacation destination.

5. Home Away from Home

Sometimes the hardest part of a trip is simply leaving the house, but in Wakulla, you’ll find a close-knit community and small-town vibe that will make you feel right at home. If you’ve brought your home on wheels, there are several RV resorts with full accommodations, amenities, and gorgeous scenery. If you prefer more traditional lodging, we have cozy inns, classic hotels, and other renowned lodging open to provide you with a safe and relaxing stay during your visit.

Rediscover your sense of wonder and make this spring break one to remember. Start planning the trip of your dreams today by clicking the button below.

Plan Your Trip Today

Did you know that with a valid public library card, you can gain entry to all Florida state parks?

Do you ever notice that your family is more “plugged in” than they used to be? Do you ever feel like the time that you, your spouse, or your kids spend on electronic devices might be time better spent with each other, connecting and building family bonds?

Read More about Reconnect with Your Family in Wakulla

You don’t need to buy a plane ticket to escape the everyday. If you’re itching for a getaway and find yourself within driving distance of scenic Wakulla County, here is your guide to a one-tank trip that will allow you to hit some must-see spots and classic favorites in Old Florida.

Return to a historic seaside at the St. Marks Lighthouse

The St. Marks Lighthouse has been guiding watercrafts through the open waters of the Gulf of Mexico and towards the mouth of the St. Marks River for nearly 200 years, and while the lighthouse’s beam has been dormant for several years, the St. Marks Lighthouse remains a crucial part of the region’s history. The current lighthouse was built in 1842, and it is actually the second structure to guide vessels through the area. It replaced the first version constructed in 1831 that was threatened by erosion.

Over the centuries, it has weathered powerful hurricanes and survived multiple wars, including the Civil War where the Confederacy attempted to blow up the lighthouse to stop a Union landing party from moving inland. Numerous improvements have been made in the ensuing years. The St. Marks Lighthouse stands as a beacon for ships and visitors alike.

Immerse yourself in the natural wonderland of Wakulla Springs State Park

As residents of Wakulla County, we know that Wakulla Springs State Park is one of the true hidden gems of the south, and we want you to discover it as well. The centerpiece of the park is the gorgeous springs themselves, whose blue, 70-degree waters beckon swimmers even on the hottest summer days. Wakulla Springs is also renowned for being the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the entire world.

One of the most popular activities at the park is taking a riverboat tour, where you can cruise the springs for signs of wildlife. The springs are also a great place for snorkeling or scuba diving, and there are hiking and wildlife photography opportunities for visitors who prefer to stay on dry land. Don’t forget to check out the Lodge at Wakulla Springs, which is a full-service hotel and restaurant that has welcomed guests since the 1930s.

Explore the wonder of the deep sea at the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab

Where can you visit a working marine laboratory that doubles as an interactive nature center for guests? Wakulla County, of course! The Gulf Specimen Marine Lab (GSML) in Panacea is crucial in furthering marine biology research in the area, but visitors also have a chance to view and even handle some real aquatic wildlife. The Gulf of Mexico and various freshwater bodies of the area are vital to Wakulla County’s ecosystems, so the GSML aims to teach guests about the diversity of marine life through a state-of-the-art aquarium and hands-on displays.

Top off your gasoline tank and discover even more of Wakulla County

You can see some of the highlights of Wakulla County on a single tank of gas, but if you have time to stay longer you’ll find there’s so much more to explore in our natural paradise, including dining on fresh local seafood and attending one of our community events. Check out our accommodation options, and start planning your getaway today.