High Bluff Campground Lake Talquin State Forest

4.29

67 reviews

2565 High Bluff Landing Rd, Midway, Florida, 32351, United States

Summer Destination

Featured in:Primitive Camping Florida

Quick Facts

151 ft

Price

$10 - $16/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

25 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Florida Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

151 ft

Price

$10 - $16/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

25 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Florida Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

High Bluff Campground Lake Talquin State Forest

$10.00 - $16.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The base camping fee is $10 per night, with an additional fee of $6 for reservation costs when booked through ReserveAmerica.

Standard Site Fee$10.00

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

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes

150,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Share this campground

Reserve America

Provider

8506815950

Help improve this page

See something outdated or incorrect? Let us know!

What Campers Say

4.29

Satisfactory

Based on 67 reviews

48 Google reviews

Most mentioned

lake

Some mention

noise

"User reviews of High Bluff Campground highlight the serene and peaceful atmosphere, the variety of outdoor activities, and the primitive nature of the facilities. Many appreciate the proximity to Lake Talquin for fishing and boating, but complaints include insufficient maintenance, occasional noise from parties, and lack of basic amenities like water and showers."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

2565 High Bluff Landing Rd, Midway, Florida, 32351, United States

High Bluff Campground Lake Talquin State Forest

2565 High Bluff Landing Rd, Midway, Florida, 32351, United States

Driving directionsFrom I-10 take exit 181 (Fl. 267) proceed south 0.4 mile to Spooner Rd.; turn left, take Spooner Road 2.5 miles to Old Federal Highway and turn left. Take Old Federal Hwy 2.3 miles and turn right on state Hwy 268/High Bridge Rd. Take Hwy 268 for 4.3 miles, and turn right onto Peters Rd. Take Peters Rd 1.1 miles until it becomes High Bluff Landing Rd. Continue 2.6 miles on a dirt road to the campground.

The campground is accessible via a dirt road for the last 2.6 miles, which may present challenges during wet conditions. It is not suitable for vehicles with low clearance.

Nearby places

Tallahassee: 20 miles, Quincy: null, Havana: null

Nearby supplies

Supplies can be obtained from Tallahassee, about 20 miles away. Grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel are located in this city.

Best Time to Camp at High Bluff Campground Lake Talquin State Forest

Experience Florida's most comfortable camping weather at High Bluff, where each season paints the forest in different moods. Winter brings crisp, dry days perfect for hiking, with temperatures hovering around a pleasant 65°F. Spring and fall offer that goldilocks weather—not too hot, not too cold—ideal for all your outdoor adventures. Summer transforms the forest into a lush, green sanctuary where temperatures climb to 90°F, creating those classic muggy Southern days best spent lounging by the lake or seeking shade under ancient oaks. While occasional rain showers sweep through to refresh the landscape, extreme weather is rare, making any time a good time to pitch your tent.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Summer sees more activity, heat and occasional parties; busier than off-season.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Milder weather and quieter conditions implied; good season for hiking and lakeside use.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Spring likely pleasant with active wildlife and mild weather; positive but fewer specifics.

Best

Winter(Dec-Feb)

4.0 / 5

Winter described as crisp, dry, and ideal for hiking; reviewers note pleasant winter days.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season dates are not specified.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Year-round operation is implied but not stated explicitly.

About High Bluff Campground Lake Talquin State Forest

Escape to the untamed beauty of High Bluff Campground, where primitive camping meets pristine wilderness in the heart of Lake Talquin State Forest. This back-to-basics retreat invites adventurers to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature. Cast your line from the fishing pier, launch your boat into the tranquil waters, or gather around crackling campfires at your picnic table as stars emerge overhead. With only the essentials—fire rings, grills, and vault toilets—you'll find everything you need and nothing you don't. Leave behind electricity, running water, and the rush of daily life for an authentic outdoor experience that reminds you why camping is about the journey, not the amenities.

High Bluff Campground offers primitive camping for both tents and RVs. There are no designated group camping areas or cabin rentals.

Historical SignificanceHigh Bluff Campground serves as a gateway to two of Florida's most treasured trail systems. As part of the legendary Florida Scenic Trail, it connects adventurers to a statewide journey through diverse ecosystems and natural wonders. The campground also sits along the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, making it a premier destination for nature enthusiasts eager to spot rare birds and observe Florida's incredible biodiversity in its natural habitat.

Weather and SeasonsExperience Florida's most comfortable camping weather at High Bluff, where each season paints the forest in different moods. Winter brings crisp, dry days perfect for hiking, with temperatures hovering around a pleasant 65°F. Spring and fall offer that goldilocks weather—not too hot, not too cold—ideal for all your outdoor adventures. Summer transforms the forest into a lush, green sanctuary where temperatures climb to 90°F, creating those classic muggy Southern days best spent lounging by the lake or seeking shade under ancient oaks. While occasional rain showers sweep through to refresh the landscape, extreme weather is rare, making any time a good time to pitch your tent.

ElevationWhile modest by mountain standards, the rolling terrain of High Bluff offers surprising topographical diversity for Florida camping. The landscape rises and falls across gentle hills, with elevation changes reaching up to 100 feet throughout the region—a rarity in the Sunshine State that creates scenic vistas and varied hiking experiences you won't find in typical Florida flatlands.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living postcard where ancient live oaks draped in Spanish moss stand sentinel over your campsite, their gnarled branches creating natural cathedral ceilings. Towering pine forests whisper in the breeze while Lake Talquin's waters lap gently at the shoreline, offering endless opportunities for reflection—both literal and figurative. This is where Florida's wild heart beats strongest, where curious foxes might tiptoe past your tent at dawn, graceful deer emerge from morning mists, and the campground's friendly resident possum makes regular evening appearances, reminding visitors they're guests in a thriving ecosystem.

Geological RegionDiscover camping in one of Florida's most geologically fascinating regions at High Bluff, nestled within the Tallahassee Hills—a rare physiographic wonderland where dramatic elevation changes create a landscape unlike anywhere else in the state. Lake Talquin State Forest showcases nature's diversity with its mosaic of ecosystems: from sun-dappled upland pine forests to mysterious swamp bottomlands, from ancient sand hills that tell stories of prehistoric seas to temperate hardwood forests that rival any in the Southeast. With elevation swings of up to 100 feet carving valleys and ridges throughout the forest, this dynamic terrain offers camping adventures that defy Florida's flat reputation.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive nights allowed per reservation is unknown.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum number of guests per site is unknown.

Groups

There are no designated group camping sites.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground consists of raised gravel parking pads framed with wood and numerous shaded sites under trees.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via ReserveAmerica.

Walk-in AvailabilityHigh Bluff Campground operates on an honor system; walk-up availability is possible if sites are not reserved in advance.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation rules are not explicitly stated in the provided information.

AccessibilityVaulted restrooms and boat ramps have handicap accessibility, but detailed accessibility features for camping sites are not provided.

Site SizeMost sites are described as primitive and suitable for both tent and RV camping. However, some reviewers noted certain campsites are small and close together.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary; some sites are reported to be small and close together, while others offer more seclusion. One reviewer suggested reserving multiple sites for added privacy.

Total Campsites25 campsites

Recommended SitesUser reviews suggest reserving multiple sites for privacy as some sites are close together.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Recreational activities at High Bluff Campground include fishing, boating, kayaking, hiking, picnicking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, and photography. The campground is adjacent to a hunting area and offers easy access to Lake Talquin's waters.

HikingHiking opportunities are available, with trails allowing for exploration of the surrounding forest. One reviewer commented, 'Plenty of trails for any hikers.'

FishingFishing is a highlight at the campground, with Lake Talquin providing opportunities to catch catfish and bass. A fishing pier is available, and fishing requires a valid license. One user mentioned, 'Plenty of catfish and a few monster bass await.'

BikingBiking is permitted on open roads within Lake Talquin State Forest but is not allowed on designated hiking or equestrian trails.

BoatingBoating activities, including canoeing and kayaking, are supported. The campground provides a boat ramp for lake access.

Wildlife viewingWildlife commonly seen includes foxes, deer, squirrels, and a resident possum. Occasional sightings of black bears have been reported in the adjacent forest.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsUser reviews mention wildlife hazards such as alligators in the lake and occasional black bears in the adjacent forest. The dirt road leading to the campground can become challenging during wet weather.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted in the provided fire rings/grills.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are not explicitly mentioned but weekend noise disturbances have been reported.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services include Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare and local ranger stations accessible within approximately 20 miles.

Trash & RecyclingThere is no mention of on-site trash or recycling facilities; one reviewer noted the presence of trash at their site during their stay.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to Lake Talquin, offering access for fishing, kayaking, and boating.

Weather at High Bluff Campground Lake Talquin State Forest

Reviews

4.3

67 reviews

Satisfactory

High Bluff Campground Lake Talquin State Forest is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews of High Bluff Campground highlight the serene and peaceful atmosphere, the variety of outdoor activities, and the primitive nature of the facilities. Many appreciate the proximity to Lake Talquin for fishing and boating, but complaints include insufficient maintenance, occasional noise from parties, and lack of basic amenities like water and showers.

Review Summaries

Based on 67 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers frequently praised the campground's tranquility, proximity to Lake Talquin, and suitability for fishing and kayaking. One reviewer noted, 'The night sky is amazing, the lake was beautiful.'

Based on 67 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include lack of maintenance (e.g., 'tables and grills are all rot and covered by spiderwebs'), trash left by previous campers, and noise from parties, particularly on weekends....

Based on 67 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend visiting during weekdays to avoid weekend noise and parties. They also advise bringing all necessary supplies, including water, as the campground lacks such amenities. For better...

Based on 67 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews suggest the campground is quieter and more enjoyable during the off-season or weekdays. Summer months may see higher activity levels and occasional parties.

Based on 67 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'It's a very quiet place to overnight but be aware cause there's no bathroom, no water, no electricity, no dumpster station.' 2. 'Beautiful place to camp, very peaceful.' 3. 'The campground became...

Based on 67 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

While specific campsite numbers are not referenced, some sites are noted for being small and close together. Others are described as having better shade or privacy.

Based on 67 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features are briefly mentioned, with a fishing pier and boat ramp noted as handicap accessible, but detailed user feedback on accessibility is lacking.

Based on 67 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are permitted, and reviewers have shared positive experiences bringing their dogs. One user mentioned walking their dogs along the dirt road leading to the campground.

Based on 67 reviews

0 review

Add your voice to the Outdoorithm community

Been to High Bluff Campground Lake Talquin State Forest? Your review helps fellow campers discover what makes this place special—and what to expect.

Last updated January 5, 2026

Nearby Campgrounds

Campgrounds you may also like

Popular campgrounds in Florida

Campgrounds

High Bluff Campground Lake Talquin State Forest