Bear Lake East Primitive Group Campsite Blackwater River State Forest

Open — Open year-round for reservations. Alcohol is prohibited at this facility. During main hunting season (Thanksgiving to mid-February), fluorescent orange is recommended when hiking outside the Bear Lake non-hunting zone.

About

Bear Lake East Primitive Group Campsite is situated within Blackwater River State Forest in Santa Rosa County, approximately one hour northeast of Pensacola, Florida. This primitive group camping area is located in the Bear Lake Recreation Area, adjacent to the 107-acre Bear Lake, offering a true backcountry experience for groups seeking solitude in nature. The campsite accommodates up to 24 people and provides basic amenities including a pit toilet and firepit, but no water or electricity is available on-site. Campers must bring all necessary water and supplies. The site features a small boat launch suitable for watercraft with electric motors only, though larger boats should use the main Bear Lake Campground launch. Swimming is not permitted at this location. Blackwater River State Forest is Florida's largest state forest, encompassing over 211,000 acres of longleaf pine-wiregrass ecosystem. The Bear Lake Recreation Area offers excellent opportunities for fishing, hiking, mountain biking on a 6-mile trail, canoeing, bird watching, wildlife viewing, and photography. The area is part of the Florida National Scenic Trail and Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. During the main hunting season from Thanksgiving to mid-February, wearing fluorescent orange is recommended when hiking outside the Bear Lake non-hunting zone.

Directions

From I-10 take exit 22 for FL-281 N toward Milton/Gulf Breeze. Head north on FL-281 N (Avalon Blvd.) for 4 miles to US-90 E (Caroline St.) and turn right. Go 2.3 miles and turn left onto Stewart Street, go 0.8 mile to County Road 191 (Munson Highway) at Milton High School and turn right. Continue on CR-191 for 19.5 miles to FL-4 E and turn right. After 2.7 miles on FL-4 E look for the Hurricane Lake sign. Turn left and travel 1 mile to a gated dirt road on your left.

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