Walsingham Camp Site















Walsingham Camp Site Overview
Rating
Phone (850) 539-5999
Address Youngstown, FL 32466, USA
Website http://www.nwfwater.com/Lands/Recreation/Area/Econfina-Creek/Walsingham-Camp-Site
Hours
Walsingham Camp Site Location & Map
FloridaWashington CountyYoungstown
Walsingham Camp Site About
For many Floridians, the ideal outdoor escape isn't about sprawling resorts or bustling crowds, but rather a quiet corner where nature's beauty takes center stage. If you're seeking a serene and low-key camping experience that allows you to truly disconnect and appreciate the natural splendor of the Sunshine State, Walsingham Camp Site in Youngstown, Florida, might just be your perfect destination. This charming primitive campground offers a tranquil setting that has captivated visitors with its peaceful ambiance and picturesque surroundings.
Walsingham Camp Site is a testament to the simple joys of camping. It's a place where the majestic live oak trees provide ample shade and a sense of timelessness, creating an idyllic backdrop for picnics, quiet reflection, and quality time with loved ones. While it embraces a rustic approach, the feedback from past visitors consistently highlights its beauty and the peaceful atmosphere it affords. If you're a Floridian looking to slow down, breathe in fresh air, and immerse yourself in an unspoiled natural environment, this beautiful little landing and campground promises a memorable and rejuvenating experience.
Walsingham Camp Site is located in Youngstown, FL 32466, USA. More precisely, it is situated on the west side of Econfina Creek, north of Walsingham Bridge Road. Its address, 1126 Walsingham Bridge Road, Youngstown, FL, further pinpoints this tranquil spot. This location places it within the Northwest Florida Water Management District's Econfina Creek Water Management Area, a region renowned for its pristine springs, clear waterways, and extensive natural landscapes.
The accessibility of Walsingham Camp Site is quite straightforward for Floridians. While it offers a secluded and natural environment, it remains relatively easy to reach. Located near State Road 20 (SR20), a primary east-west route in the Florida Panhandle, the turn-off onto Walsingham Bridge Road is manageable. Walsingham Bridge Road, while possibly unpaved in sections closer to the site, is generally navigable, allowing for access by most vehicles suitable for primitive camping. Its proximity to Econfina Creek is a significant draw, as the creek itself is a popular destination for paddlers and nature enthusiasts. This combination of a secluded feel with convenient access makes Walsingham Camp Site an excellent choice for a short getaway or a longer retreat into nature for residents across Florida.
Walsingham Camp Site is designed as a primitive campground, offering essential services to facilitate a comfortable, back-to-basics camping experience.
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Tent-Only Camping: The campsite is designated exclusively for tent camping. RVs, motorhomes, and large trailers are not permitted, ensuring a traditional and quiet camping environment.
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Single Campsite: Walsingham Camp Site appears to be a single, designated camping area, rather than multiple individual sites. This contributes to its quiet and low-key atmosphere.
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Maximum Capacity: The campsite can accommodate a maximum of eight people, which helps maintain its serene ambiance and prevents overcrowding.
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Reservation Required: Camping at Walsingham Camp Site requires a free reservation, typically made through the Northwest Florida Water Management District's reservation website. This ensures a confirmed spot and helps manage the site effectively.
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Picnic Table: A picnic table is provided at the site, offering a convenient surface for dining, food preparation, and other activities.
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Pedestal Grill: For cooking over charcoal, a pedestal grill is available, perfect for outdoor meals.
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Fire Ring: A fire ring is included for campfires, allowing campers to enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a traditional open fire under the stars.
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Portable Toilet Access: The nearest portable toilet is located at Walsingham Park or at Devil's Hole, both of which are nearby, providing a basic restroom facility for campers.
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Canoe/Small Boat Launch: Walsingham Park, which is part of the same complex, offers a canoe/small boat launch, providing direct access to Econfina Creek for paddling adventures.
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No Hookups: It's important for campers to be prepared for a primitive experience, as there are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups available at the campsite.
Walsingham Camp Site offers several compelling features and highlights that make it a truly special place for those who appreciate nature's tranquility.
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Beautiful and Quiet Setting: Visitors consistently praise the site for its inherent beauty and peaceful atmosphere. It's a place where you can truly escape the noise and simply enjoy the sounds of nature.
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Majestic Live Oak Trees: The presence of "big live oak trees" adds significantly to the aesthetic appeal and provides ample natural shade, enhancing the comfort of the camping experience, particularly during Florida's warmer months.
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Ideal for Picnics: The picnic table and overall serene environment make it a perfect spot for day trips focused on outdoor dining and relaxation, even if not staying overnight.
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Direct Access to Econfina Creek: The site's proximity and shared access points with Walsingham Park allow for easy launching of kayaks and canoes into the Econfina Creek. This waterway is renowned for its clear waters, beautiful springs, and excellent paddling opportunities.
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Low-Key and Uncrowded: With a limited capacity (maximum eight people), the campsite maintains a low-key and uncrowded ambiance, fostering a more intimate and personal connection with the natural surroundings.
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Primitive Camping Experience: For those seeking a genuine back-to-basics adventure, the lack of modern hookups encourages self-sufficiency and a deeper appreciation for the simple pleasures of outdoor living.
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Opportunity for Stargazing: Away from significant light pollution, the night sky at Walsingham Camp Site offers excellent opportunities for stargazing, a truly magical experience for many campers.
Walsingham Camp Site, being part of the Northwest Florida Water Management District's recreational offerings, provides a notable "promotion" in the form of free reservations. There are typically no direct nightly fees associated with camping at this primitive site. This makes it an exceptionally attractive and budget-friendly option for Floridians seeking a natural getaway. While traditional discounts or seasonal sales are not applicable, the inherent value of a free, reservable campsite in such a beautiful natural setting is a significant benefit. It's important to remember that reservations are mandatory to secure your spot, especially given the limited capacity of the site. Always utilize the official reservation channels to confirm availability and any specific guidelines.
For reservations, inquiries, or more information about Walsingham Camp Site, please use the following:
Address: 1126 Walsingham Bridge Road, Youngstown, FL 32466, USA
Phone: (850) 539-5999
Mobile Phone: +1 850-539-5999
Please note that while the phone number is provided, direct reservations for this particular campsite are usually handled through the Northwest Florida Water Management District's official online reservation platform (e.g., via their website or CampLife.com). It's always best to check their online portal for real-time availability and booking.
For Floridians, Walsingham Camp Site presents an outstanding opportunity for a truly serene and authentic outdoor experience. It's perfectly suited for those who appreciate the quiet beauty of nature and prefer a less developed, more intimate camping environment. The presence of magnificent live oak trees, the peaceful atmosphere, and the easy access to the renowned Econfina Creek for kayaking (with appropriate awareness of current water conditions and potential blockages, as noted in one review) make it an ideal local escape.
The fact that it’s a free, reservable site further enhances its appeal, making a tranquil wilderness experience accessible without a significant financial outlay. For families, couples, or individuals in Florida seeking a "home away from home" where they can unplug, reconnect with nature, enjoy picnics, and make lasting memories under a canopy of stars, Walsingham Camp Site is a cherished and perfectly suitable destination right in our own beautiful state.
Customer Reviews
Beautiful little landing/camp ground! Quiet and low key. Loved the big live oak trees! Perfect for picnics. Would definitely come back!
Great place to put kayaks in. Unfortunately we put in here on Sunday 10 May 2020 and we got about a 1/3rd of our trip down to SR20 and happened upon a spot that was impassable. We had to paddle upstream and it was miserable. When I say impassable, I mean it. I swam downstream with our kayaks and could not find a route, even carrying. Until someone comes and clears the area, I would say stay clear for kayakers and put in at SR20.
Could not get ahold of management area contacts and tried to camp without reservation. Called the numbers, tried the website, neither responded. Went to check it out and with no-one there, I decided to pitch a tent. I saw a worker, who told me he would just "forget" he saw me, then I saw a FWC officer, after asking him about the reservations and saying I did not have one, he gave me a trespassing warning, which he said could have been criminal trespass, 3rd degree felony. Never again. A felony for primitive camping, when it's at devil's hole in the middle of the management area?? Not to mention I made it aware that I did not have the reservation. Apparently it's better not to say anything at all and try to be sneaky than be legal. Edit: I never stayed overnight, and day visits are legal year round. Also, while I was told to leave immediately, other people came to swim the spring without a word. Warning I got was "camping is allowed only at designated sites and for no more than 14 consecutive days at a time or by permit from northwest florida water management district" Guess you must not confuse permit having being given permission and the act of reserving something... To note, this is way off the beaten track, and there were absolutely no other campers at the devils hole camp sites, or any of the other free primitive campsites for miles around.
Could not get ahold of management area contacts and tried to camp without reservation. Called the numbers, tried the website, neither responded. Went to check it out and with no-one there, I decided to pitch a tent. I saw a worker, who told me he would just "forget" he saw me, then I saw a FWC officer, after asking him about the reservations and saying I did not have one, he gave me a trespassing warning, which he said could have been criminal trespass, 3rd degree felony. Never again. A felony for primitive camping, when it's at devil's hole in the middle of the management area?? Not to mention I made it aware that I did not have the reservation. Apparently it's better not to say anything at all and try to be sneaky than be legal. Edit: I never stayed overnight, and day visits are legal year round. Also, while I was told to leave immediately, other people came to swim the spring without a word. Warning I got was "camping is allowed only at designated sites and for no more than 14 consecutive days at a time or by permit from northwest florida water management district" Guess you must not confuse permit having being given permission and the act of reserving something... To note, this is way off the beaten track, and there were absolutely no other campers at the devils hole camp sites, or any of the other free primitive campsites for miles around.
They've done really well cleaning it up even though it will never look like it did before Michael
They've done really well cleaning it up even though it will never look like it did before Michael
Nice!
Nice!
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