Camp Paquette

Are you a Floridian scouting leader, a family seeking a natural retreat, or an outdoor enthusiast eager to explore the Panhandle's wilderness? Finding a campground that combines essential facilities with ample space for recreation and a strong connection to nature can make your outdoor experience truly rewarding. In Milton, Florida, **Camp Paquette** stands out as an "excellent campground" that offers a robust environment, particularly suited for group activities and immersive nature experiences. This article will provide a detailed and factual overview of Camp Paquette, drawing on positive customer testimonials to highlight its offerings and why it's a fantastic option for Floridians looking to connect with the great outdoors.

Camp Paquette is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a well-maintained natural haven designed to facilitate outdoor learning, play, and relaxation. Praised for its "well kept ground" and "adequate restroom facilities," the campground provides fundamental comforts while allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the surrounding nature. Its proximity to the Blackwater River for canoeing and its on-site trails around a lake make it an ideal setting for active groups and individuals alike. Whether you're planning a Cub Scout crossover ceremony, a family camping trip, or a peaceful escape into Florida's beautiful forests, Camp Paquette offers a welcoming and well-equipped environment for your adventure.

Camp Paquette is located at **5138 Belandville Rd, Milton, FL 32570, USA**. It's important to note that Camp Paquette is often associated with the **Blackwater River State Forest**, a vast and pristine natural area in the Florida Panhandle. While the provided address is accurate for the physical location, official information often lists the mailing address as 8049 Horseshoe Loop Road, Milton, FL 32570, associated with the Blackwater River State Forest.

Milton, Florida, serves as a gateway to this expansive state forest, which is a treasure trove of outdoor activities. For Floridians, accessing Camp Paquette is typically straightforward. It's located within the state forest, meaning you'll likely travel along well-maintained forest roads. The general area is easily reached via major highways such such as I-10, which traverses the Florida Panhandle. This makes it a convenient destination for residents from across Florida, whether driving from Pensacola, Tallahassee, or even farther south.

Its location deep within the Blackwater River State Forest is a significant advantage for those seeking a true wilderness experience. Guests have direct access to the forest's extensive trail systems and, importantly, are "close to blackwater river canoeing." This proximity to major natural attractions enhances the appeal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and water-based activities right at your doorstep.

Camp Paquette, as a youth group camp and general campground, provides essential services geared towards comfortable and functional outdoor stays. Based on customer reviews and additional public information from the Florida Forest Service (which manages the state forest), here are the key services available:

• **Campsites with Water (Potable) Only:** The campground offers sites that provide access to potable water. This is crucial for drinking, cooking, and basic hygiene, though it implies full RV hookups (electric/sewer) are not standard at all sites, especially for primitive or youth group camping. It's listed as a "no hookup" site type by some sources.
• **Adequate Restroom Facilities:** Reviewers specifically mention "adequate restroom facilities," indicating the presence of clean and functional toilets for campers.
• **Hot Showers:** Public information also confirms the availability of hot showers, a welcome amenity for campers after a day of outdoor activities.
• **Communal Group Pavilion with Fireplace:** This feature is ideal for group gatherings, meals, and activities, offering a sheltered space with a fireplace for warmth and ambiance.
• **Dumpster On-Site:** A communal dumpster helps campers manage waste responsibly, contributing to the cleanliness of the grounds.
• **Group Fire Pits at Each Campsite:** Each campsite is equipped with a group fire pit, allowing for traditional campfire experiences, cooking, and warmth. One reviewer highlighted that pinecones were conveniently "raked all the pinecone into the fire pit which was excellent fire tinder," showcasing attentive groundskeeping.
• **Reservations Only:** Sites at Camp Paquette are generally "reservation only," which helps manage capacity and ensures a spot is available upon arrival, especially for groups.

It's important to clarify that while "no hookup" sites might be prevalent for primitive or youth group camping, the presence of restrooms and showers enhances comfort significantly compared to truly primitive camping.

Camp Paquette distinguishes itself with several key features and highlights that make it a beloved destination, particularly for youth groups and nature-loving Floridians:

• **Excellent Campground & Well-Kept Grounds:** The park earns high praise for being an "excellent campground" with "well kept" grounds. This indicates a commitment to cleanliness and maintenance, creating an inviting and pleasant environment for campers.
• **Proximity to Blackwater River Canoeing:** A major draw is its direct "close to blackwater river canoeing" access. The Blackwater River is famous for its clear, tea-colored waters, making it a prime spot for canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
• **Lots of Room to Run and Play:** For youth groups like Cub Scouts, the campground offers "lots of room to run and play." This ample open space is perfect for outdoor games, activities, and fostering a sense of freedom for children.
• **Great Trail Around the Lake:** The presence of a "Great trail to walk around the lake" provides a scenic and accessible opportunity for hiking, nature walks, and birdwatching right within the campground area. This adds value for all visitors seeking gentle recreation.
• **Ideal for Youth Group Camps & Ceremonies:** The reviews specifically highlight its suitability for "Cubscout camps," "cross-over and rank up for the Cubs becoming Scouts." This suggests the facilities and environment are perfectly geared towards organized youth activities and milestone ceremonies.
• **Natural Fire Tinder:** The thoughtful act of having "raked all the pinecone into the fire pit" demonstrates attention to detail and enhances the authentic camping experience, providing ready-to-use fire tinder.
• **Serene Lake Access:** The camp is located next to a 5-acre lake, which, combined with the walking trail, enhances recreational opportunities like fishing (outside swimming areas) and general enjoyment of the waterfront.

These features collectively ensure that Camp Paquette offers a robust and enjoyable outdoor experience, particularly for groups and those seeking an active yet serene natural setting.

As a campground primarily managed by or associated with the Blackwater River State Forest (part of Florida State Forests), Camp Paquette typically operates on a standardized fee structure set by the state. While specific "promotions" in the commercial sense (like discounts or package deals) are not commonly advertised for state park campgrounds, the inherent affordability of state park camping often serves as its own "special offer" compared to private resorts.

Rates for Camp Paquette are generally published by the Florida Forest Service and available through reservation platforms like ReserveAmerica. These rates are usually consistent throughout the year, though they can vary based on the type of site (e.g., primitive group site vs. a more developed spot, if available). For the most accurate and up-to-date information on daily rates, group rates, or any specific booking window details, it is always recommended to consult the official Florida State Forests website or the ReserveAmerica booking portal for Camp Paquette.

If you're planning a group camp, a family outing, or simply want to learn more about Camp Paquette, here's how you can get in touch:

• **Address (Physical Location):** 5138 Belandville Rd, Milton, FL 32570, USA
• **Mailing Address (Associated with Blackwater River State Forest):** 8049 Horseshoe Loop Road, Milton FL 32570
• **Phone (Information/Booking):** (850) 957-5700 (This number is often listed as the contact for Blackwater River State Forest, which manages the camp.)

Given its association with the Florida State Forest system, reservations are typically made online through platforms like ReserveAmerica. However, for specific questions about facilities, group bookings, or unique needs, contacting the Blackwater River State Forest office at the provided number would be the most effective way to gather information.

For Floridians seeking an authentic and enriching outdoor experience, particularly those involved with youth groups or simply passionate about nature, Camp Paquette in Milton stands out as an exceptionally suitable choice. Its appeal to local users is deeply rooted in its integration with the natural landscape and its practical, well-maintained facilities.

Firstly, its strategic location within the **Blackwater River State Forest** is a paramount advantage for Floridians. This provides unparalleled access to the state's natural beauty, including the iconic Blackwater River. For locals, this means less travel time to reach pristine wilderness for canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and hiking—activities that are cornerstones of Florida's outdoor lifestyle. The fact that it's "close to blackwater river canoeing" directly caters to a popular regional pastime.

Secondly, the campground's design and amenities make it **exceptionally well-suited for youth groups** like Cub Scouts, as highlighted by multiple reviews. The "lots of room to run and play" and the "Great trail to walk around the lake" provide ideal settings for educational outdoor activities, team-building, and rank-up ceremonies. For Florida parents and scout leaders, finding such a dedicated and well-maintained space for youth development is invaluable.

Furthermore, the "excellent campground" status, coupled with "adequate restroom facilities" and the convenience of hot showers, ensures that even those looking for a rustic experience don't have to sacrifice essential comforts. The thoughtfulness of having **pinecones raked into fire pits** exemplifies the attention to detail that enhances the camping experience. For Floridians who value clean, accessible, and naturally rich environments for their outdoor pursuits, whether with family, friends, or organized groups, Camp Paquette offers a compelling and truly local camping experience that celebrates the best of the Panhandle's natural heritage.