Pine Log State Forest
Discover a serene escape with miles of trails, shaded campsites, and peaceful ponds in this beautiful Florida forest.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Perfect weather for exploring
Pine Log State Forest
Best Time
Perfect weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a serene escape with miles of trails, shaded campsites, and peaceful ponds in this beautiful Florida forest.
"A hidden gem offering miles of trails and peaceful camping, perfect for nature lovers."
🚗 Access Road Caution
The campground is accessed by a red clay dirt/gravel road. Be prepared for potential mud, especially after rain. :construction_car:
🌲 Enjoy the Shade
Campsites are shaded by mature Florida pine trees, offering a cool respite during warmer months. :evergreen_tree:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Towering White Pines
Throughout the forest
Walk beneath the canopy of some of the last native white pine trees in Illinois, creating a unique, almost Pacific Northwest feel.
Sand Pond Campgrounds
Sand Pond area
Enjoy shaded, concrete-padded campsites with lovely views of the pond, perfect for a peaceful nature retreat.
Hiking and Biking Trails
Various locations
Explore miles of trails suitable for hiking and biking, with some featuring wooden walkways over wooded ponds.
Fishing Ponds and Streams
Throughout the forest
Cast a line in several ponds and streams scattered throughout the forest, offering a relaxing outdoor activity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Natural Beauty
Maintenance & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Access Road Caution
The campground is accessed by a red clay dirt/gravel road. Be prepared for potential mud, especially after rain. :construction_car:
🌲 Enjoy the Shade
Campsites are shaded by mature Florida pine trees, offering a cool respite during warmer months. :evergreen_tree:
📶 Service Spotty
While some sites have good 5G, the tree canopy can block Starlink. Plan for intermittent internet access. :satellite:
🥾 Trail Maintenance
Some trails and docks may need repair. Enjoy the existing paths, but be aware of potential upkeep needs. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Access Road Caution
The campground is accessed by a red clay dirt/gravel road. Be prepared for potential mud, especially after rain. :construction_car:
🌲 Enjoy the Shade
Campsites are shaded by mature Florida pine trees, offering a cool respite during warmer months. :evergreen_tree:
📶 Service Spotty
While some sites have good 5G, the tree canopy can block Starlink. Plan for intermittent internet access. :satellite:
🥾 Trail Maintenance
Some trails and docks may need repair. Enjoy the existing paths, but be aware of potential upkeep needs. :hiking_boot:
📍 Near the Beach
Conveniently located just 20-25 minutes from the beach, offering a peaceful escape with easy access to coastal attractions. :beachwithumbrella:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Pine Log State Forest is often described as a hidden gem, praised for its beautiful natural scenery, peaceful campgrounds, and extensive trail system for hiking and biking. Visitors appreciate the shade from mature pine trees and the serene atmosphere, making it ideal for a relaxing nature escape. However, some reviews point to a need for better maintenance in certain areas, including the boat ramp and restroom facilities, and suggest that website information could be more up-to-date.
"Pine Log is really a hidden gem. It is beautiful! Miles and miles of trails for hiking and biking. There are several ponds and streams for fishing. There are campsites available to reserve around Sand Pond and they are all shaded. This is my favorite State Forest in the panhandle. A lovely place to enjoy nature with family."
Amanda Rhodes
"Needs better forestry management all the way around. The Pine Log boat ramp was sad to see, so ran down and all the old litter laying around a burn pile and no one has ever cleaned up with a degraded picnic table. I'm local here just sad to see it has not been better maintained. Lot of deteriorated signs not legible.The campground was kept up nice and clean, although the restrooms are in need of a renovation and shower had not been cleaned out for a while. This is a not a good representation of Florida, especially being so close to the beach with so many tourists coming through. Even on website does not have clear updated info. There are so many more attractions in the area to list that are not listed. Even states that we have Ebro Greyhound racetrack which has not been in existence for many years and is now a casino."
J R
"This campground is a peaceful and pleasant place to stay, located just 20-25 minutes from the beach. We had a wonderful time here. The large, concrete-padded campsites are shaded by mature Florida pine trees, providing plenty of shade. Our campsite had a great view of the pond/lake. There are a number of good hiking trails within the campground, and the Florida Trail also passes through. Please be aware that the campground is accessed by a red clay dirt/gravel road. We happened to arrive during a rainstorm, and the road was a bit muddy. However, other than that, the campground is clean and well-maintained. Our campsite, number 14, was wonderful. It was very private, very large, and had a great view of the pond. We had excellent 5G T-Mobile service. The tree canopy blocked our Starlink system, but we were able to use our 150-foot cord and find a reasonable opening that gave us enough access to use Netflix and the internet, which was intermittent at best. There is a bit of road noise from Highway 79. We would definitely stay here again without a doubt."
Ross Winchel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pine Log State Forest is located in the Florida Panhandle, approximately 20-25 minutes from Panama City Beach. Access to the campground is via a red clay dirt/gravel road, which can become muddy after rain. Some travelers have noted road closures around Eglin Air Force Base impacting routes.
Public transportation options are limited for reaching Pine Log State Forest. It is best accessed by private vehicle.
The closest major city is Panama City Beach, Florida, which is about a 20-25 minute drive away.
The campground is accessed by a red clay dirt/gravel road. Travelers have reported it can be muddy after rain, so be prepared for potentially challenging driving conditions.
While some routes near Eglin Air Force Base are open to cyclists, be aware of potential closures due to military activities. The forest itself offers trails for biking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Pine Log State Forest is a state park, and typically there are no entrance fees for day use. However, camping and specific amenities may require reservations and fees. It's always best to check the official Florida State Parks website for the most up-to-date information on fees and reservations.
State forests are generally open from sunrise to sunset for day use. Campground hours and specific facility operating times may vary. Check the official Florida State Parks website for detailed hours of operation.
Camping reservations can typically be made through the Florida State Parks reservation system. Popular campgrounds like those around Sand Pond can fill up, especially during peak seasons.
Information on discounts for entry or camping is not widely available. It's recommended to check the official Florida State Parks website or contact the park directly for any potential discount programs.
Pets are generally allowed in Florida State Parks and Forests, but they must be kept on a leash and are typically not permitted in restrooms or shower facilities. Always confirm specific pet policies with the park.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Pine Log State Forest offers a variety of activities including hiking, biking on its numerous trails, fishing in ponds and streams, and camping. It's a great spot for nature photography and enjoying the serene environment.
Yes, Pine Log State Forest has miles of trails, some of which are suitable for beginners. The red trail features wooden walkways across wooded ponds, offering a unique hiking experience.
While specific wildlife sightings vary, you can expect to see typical Florida forest inhabitants. Keep an eye out for deer, various bird species, and other small forest creatures.
Yes, Pine Log State Forest is considered a family-friendly destination, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation and a peaceful environment to enjoy nature together.
The campgrounds, particularly around Sand Pond, offer shaded, concrete-padded sites with views of the pond. Restrooms and showers are available but may be in need of renovation.
📸 📸 Photography
The forest offers beautiful natural scenery, especially the towering pine trees and the serene Sand Pond. The red trail with its wooden walkways over wooded ponds is also a unique photographic subject. Sunrises and sunsets can also provide stunning opportunities.
Early mornings for sunrises and late afternoons for sunsets offer beautiful lighting conditions. The dappled light filtering through the pine canopy can also create magical shots during the day.
A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm or a wide-angle lens, would be useful for capturing the expansive forest views and details. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions or capturing serene water reflections.
Drone usage in state parks and forests is subject to specific regulations. It's crucial to check the official Florida State Parks website for current drone policies before flying.
The native white pine trees, the unique red clay access road, and the wooden walkways over the wooded ponds offer distinctive photographic opportunities not commonly found elsewhere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the forest offers a natural escape, it's worth noting that some amenities might need updates. However, the overall serene environment and the chance to see local wildlife make it a rewarding experience for families seeking a break from the hustle and bustle. Its proximity to Panama City Beach also means you can combine a forest visit with a beach day.
🏕️ Campers Seeking Serenity
Campers can enjoy fishing in the nearby ponds and streams or simply relax by the water. While some facilities may require updates, the natural beauty and tranquility of the forest are major draws. Be prepared for the red clay access road, which can be muddy after rain, but the peaceful reward is well worth the effort.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Bikers
While many trails are enjoyable, be aware that some may require maintenance. The red trail, with its wooden walkways over wooded ponds, is a highlight for its unique scenery. The Florida Trail also passes through, offering longer routes for dedicated hikers. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and carry water for your excursions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
Travelers recommend exploring these trails to fully immerse yourself in the forest's tranquility. While some trails are well-maintained, others may show signs of wear, so it's advisable to be prepared for varied conditions. The Florida Trail also passes through the area, offering longer-distance hiking possibilities for the more adventurous.
Remember to wear appropriate footwear, especially if you plan on tackling longer or more rugged paths. Staying hydrated is also key, particularly during warmer months.
Camping at Sand Pond
While the campsites themselves are generally well-regarded for their setting and shade, some visitors have noted that the campground's amenities, such as restrooms and showers, could benefit from updates and more frequent cleaning. Despite this, the overall experience is described as peaceful and pleasant, with campers often keeping to themselves.
It's important to be aware of the access road to the campground, which is made of red clay dirt and gravel. This road can become muddy after rain, so travelers should be prepared for potentially challenging driving conditions. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure a desirable spot.
Conservation and Management
However, some visitors have expressed concerns regarding the forest's overall forestry management and maintenance. Specific areas, like the Pine Log boat ramp, have been noted as being in a state of disrepair, with litter and degraded facilities. Deteriorated signs also contribute to a less-than-ideal visitor experience in some parts of the forest.
Despite these concerns, the campground areas are generally kept up nicely. The forest's proximity to popular tourist destinations like Panama City Beach makes it an important area for both conservation and recreation, highlighting the ongoing need for effective management to preserve its natural beauty and visitor experience.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit