Karick Lake North Campground Blackwater River State Forest

Open — Open year-round. Reservations available up to 11 months in advance through Reserve America. Alcohol is prohibited at this facility. Vaccinated pets allowed but must be restrained.

About

Karick Lake North Campground is located within the Karick Lake Recreation Area in Blackwater River State Forest, Okaloosa County, approximately one hour northeast of Pensacola, Florida. The campground occupies the north shore of Karick Lake, a 65-acre fishing and boating lake surrounded by pristine forest. The facility offers 15 improved campsites suitable for recreational vehicles or tents. All sites include electric hookups (30 amp service only) and potable water. Driveway lengths range from 30 to 60 feet to accommodate various RV sizes. Each campsite accommodates up to 8 people and features a fire ring and grill. Modern restroom facilities with showers are centrally located, and a dump station is available for RV users. A campground host is typically on-site to assist campers. Recreational opportunities center around the lake, which features a boat ramp and fishing pier. Only electric motors are permitted on the lake, and swimming is not allowed. The surrounding forest provides excellent opportunities for hiking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, nature study, and photography. The area is part of the Florida National Scenic Trail and Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. North Karick and its vicinity is designated as a non-hunting zone, providing a peaceful setting year-round, though fluorescent orange is recommended when hiking during main hunting season (Thanksgiving to mid-February). Blackwater River State Forest is the largest state forest in Florida, encompassing over 210,000 acres of woodlands, lakes, and streams as part of the world's largest contiguous longleaf pine-wiregrass ecosystem.

Directions

From Interstate 10 take Exit 56. Travel Highway 85 northbound to Highway 90 in Crestview. Turn left and head west to Milligan. At Milligan turn right onto Highway 4. In Baker continue heading north. The road name changes from Highway 4 to Highway 189. Travel 7.7 miles to the North Karick Lake sign and turn right at the entrance road.

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