Krul Campground Blackwater River State Forest
00 review11650 Munson Highway, Milton, Florida, 32570, United States
Krul Campground Blackwater River State Forest
$2.00 - $2.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Day use fee costs $2 per person, which must be paid online prior to arrival due to lack of cell service at the campground.
About this campground
Escape to Krul Campground, where ancient longleaf pines whisper stories of old Florida and a pristine 6.5-acre lake mirrors the endless sky. Nestled within the enchanting Blackwater River State Forest, this outdoor haven invites you to cross its iconic suspension bridge into a world of natural wonders. Whether you're taking a refreshing dip in crystal-clear waters, exploring the handicapped-accessible boardwalk that winds through diverse ecosystems, or discovering the historic gristmill that stands as a testament to the area's rich past, every moment here connects you with nature's timeless rhythm. Bird songs fill the air as hiking trails beckon adventurers, while peaceful picnic spots offer the perfect setting for creating lasting memories with loved ones.
Krul Campground offers accommodations for RV and tent camping, with electric and water hookups. The sites are suitable for families and individual campers, but pets are not allowed.
Historical SignificanceStep into a living piece of natural heritage at Krul Campground, your gateway to the magnificent Blackwater River State Forest—home to the world's largest contiguous longleaf pine-wiregrass ecosystem. This remarkable landscape tells the story of Florida's ecological past, when these majestic pines covered millions of acres across the Southeast. Today, this carefully preserved forest stands as both a sanctuary for endangered species and a testament to successful conservation efforts, offering visitors a rare glimpse into an ecosystem that has shaped the region's natural and cultural identity for centuries.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Florida's inviting climate at its finest, where mild winters give way to warm, sun-drenched days perfect for outdoor adventures. Spring and fall bring ideal camping weather with comfortable temperatures and gentle breezes rustling through the pines. Summer transforms the campground into a lush, verdant paradise, though the warmth and humidity create that authentic Southern atmosphere—perfect for early morning hikes and afternoon swims in the lake. Occasional rain showers refresh the landscape and fill the air with the sweet scent of pine, making every season a unique chapter in your camping story.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain of Krul Campground offers a classic North Florida landscape experience, where subtle changes in elevation create diverse microclimates and habitats throughout the camping area.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a photographer's paradise where towering longleaf pines create cathedral-like canopies overhead, their needle-carpeted floor soft beneath your feet. The centerpiece lake sparkles like a jewel, reflecting clouds by day and stars by night, while Sweetwater Creek meanders through the landscape, its gentle flow providing a soothing soundtrack to your stay. The elevated boardwalk offers breathtaking vantage points to observe the intricate wiregrass prairies below, where wildflowers paint seasonal splashes of color. Near the historic gristmill, weathered wooden structures blend seamlessly with moss-draped trees, creating scenes that capture the timeless beauty of Old Florida.
Geological RegionDiscover the ecological crown jewel of the Southeast at Krul Campground, located within the extraordinary Blackwater River State Forest. This remarkable preserve showcases the planet's largest remaining longleaf pine-wiregrass ecosystem—a rare and precious landscape that once dominated the coastal plains. The region's unique geology has created a tapestry of habitats, from seepage slopes and wet prairies to sandhills and crystal-clear streams. These diverse environments support an incredible array of plant and animal life, making every trail a journey through distinct natural communities that have evolved together over millennia.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe Sweetwater Hiking Trail is partially handicapped accessible, featuring a boardwalk designed for wheelchairs. Bathrooms and showers are also described as accessible for elderly and wheelchair users.
Sites SizeCampsites accommodate both RVs and tents, but specific dimensions or size categories are not provided.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews describe the campground as cozy and family-friendly. Carrie Zaremsky highlighted a respectful camper community: 'Most neighbor campers are very respectful and will help out a fellow camper in need.'
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUsers recommend staying near the water or selecting outer sites for privacy. Avoid sites near fencing to ease camper parking.
Best CampsitesNo specific site numbers mentioned as best in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
7:00 AM
Check-out
7:00 PM
Stay Limit
Stay limits mentioned in reviews but no authoritative confirmation.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Details not explicitly stated.
Groups
No information about designated group camping sites is provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSpecific layout information not provided; includes campsites near water and outer loop sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Peak season may coincide with warmer months, but specific timeframes are not provided.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are required and must be made online via the official website.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo information provided regarding walk-up campsites.
Cancellation PolicyReservations must be made online. Cancellation terms are unclear but reviews mention issues with partial refunds for canceled reservations.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of activities including swimming, hiking, picnicking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. A key attraction is the Sweetwater Hiking Trail, which features a boardwalk, suspension bridge, and a historic gristmill. The 6.5-acre lake is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Hiking
The Sweetwater Hiking Trail is a standout feature, starting at the Krul parking lot and stretching 1.3 miles to Bear Lake. The first half mile is a handicap-accessible boardwalk with a suspension bridge over Sweetwater Creek. Reviewers frequently praise its beauty and accessibility. For example, James Blanchard stated, 'A favorite place for our family to gather and enjoy the boardwalk nature trail.'Swimming
The 6.5-acre lake offers designated swimming areas with clear water. Many users praise it as a family-friendly swimming spot. For example, Sarah Tynan said, 'Krul is an all-time favorite of my family’s. It’s fun to swim in — the lake is clear and pretty deep in spots.' Lifeguards are sometimes on duty, but swimming is at your own risk.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, making it ideal for bird watching and nature studies. Sabrina Lewis noted, 'The turtles were out before sunrise,' and the park is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically mentioned, but the lake is drained annually and refilled by spring.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are not allowed in the swimming area.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed but must follow campground rules. Specific details not provided.
- Quiet hours are 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Hazards
General hazardsDrowning hazards in the lake, lack of cell phone service, and seasonal hunting requirements noted. Users are advised to wear fluorescent orange during hunting seasons, though the campground itself is in a non-hunting zone.
Active alertsNot explicitly mentioned in authoritative sources.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 68%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services include the Ranger Station (contact: 8509575700). Additional emergency services are likely in Milton, approximately 20 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo specific dates provided.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details about trash and recycling facilities are provided in the source material.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on a 6.5-acre lake with designated swimming areas. Access to Sweetwater Creek and nearby Bear Lake via trails.
Common complaintsComplaints include no cell service, unclean dressing rooms, limited payment options, and overcrowding during peak times.
HostCampground hosts are reportedly helpful and available according to user reviews.
Campground Map
11650 Munson Highway, Milton, Florida, 32570, United States
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 10 take Exit 22. Turn north on Avalon Boulevard and travel to Highway 90. Turn right onto Highway 90 and travel to Highway 87 also called Stewart Street at the Burger King restaurant. Turn left. Travel 0.8 miles to the Milton High School and turn right onto Highway 191 also called Munson Highway. Continue 19.5 miles until you reach Highway 4. Turn right onto Highway 4 and travel 0.7 miles to the Krul sign. Follow the entrance road into the facility. Turn left before entering the day-use area parking lot. At the next stop sign, turn right to Krul campground.
Accessible from paved roads; clear directions provided. Roads are suitable for RVs and other vehicles but require attention to ensure the vehicle fits completely into the campsite without protruding into the road.Nearby places
Milton (approximately 20 miles, 30 minutes), Pensacola (approximately 50 miles, 1 hour)
Nearby supplies
A store is reportedly located about 1 mile away, according to user reviews. Further supplies may be available in Milton, approximately 20 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Krul Campground Blackwater River State Forest has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, reviews are highly positive, highlighting the campground's cleanliness, family-friendly atmosphere, and recreational opportunities. Common praises include the well-maintained facilities, the scenic lake, and the boardwalk trail.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Many users appreciate the clean facilities, family-friendly environment, and variety of activities. For instance, Carrie Zaremsky noted, 'Been coming here for over 20 years and will continue with my...
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Common Concerns
The lack of cell service and the online reservation system are frequent complaints. Chris Bloomfield remarked, 'No Verizon phone service, not even with a WeBoost 65,' and several users mentioned...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend making online reservations and obtaining day passes before arriving due to limited cell service. They also suggest arriving early to secure a good spot.
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the busiest season, with users enjoying the lake and outdoor activities. However, reviews note that the lake is drained in winter and refilled by spring. Fall festivals receive positive...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'The showers were hot and clean.' - Sabrina Lewis
2. 'Wonderful family place to swim in the lake. Clean bathrooms.' - Rachel T.
3. 'Bathrooms/showers are private. Lots to do.' - Carrie Zaremsky
Site-Specific Reviews
'Site 48' is mentioned by H Wilks, who praised its tranquility during February. 'Nice sites as always by the water or outer sites in the loop best for me,' stated John Heiselman.
Accessibility Features
The boardwalk and bathrooms are noted as accessible for elderly and wheelchair users, with Rachel McAllister stating, 'Accessible for wheelchair users/elderly too.'
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are strictly prohibited, as emphasized by Debbie Dumond: 'No pets allowed at all, no exception.'
Last updated August 10, 2025