TENT CAMPING IN NORTHWEST FLORIDA

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Primitive camping – no electricity or water hookups

One Dog Allowed / Must be leashed

$15 per tent, per night

Portable toilets available onsite

Perfect combination with our River Adventures

Tent Camping in Northwest Florida

Camping at Blackwater Joe’s is the perfect retreat for outdoor lovers and families looking to unplug and reconnect. Whether you’re staying overnight after a day of canoeing or planning a peaceful weekend getaway, our private riverfront property in Holt, Florida is a favorite among Northwest Florida adventurers.

We’re just a short drive from Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Crestview, Defuniak Springs, and even Mobile, Alabama — making us an easy escape into nature.

Your Adventure Awaits

Trade the noise of everyday life for the sounds of a crackling campfire and flowing river. Blackwater Joe’s offers primitive tent camping tucked beneath towering pines and surrounded by nature’s serenity.

Campers love our riverside setup for its proximity to canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and nearby sandbars — no car needed once you arrive. With spacious wooded sites, star-filled skies, and riverside peace, you’ll feel completely off-grid without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Whether you’re pitching a tent for one night or staying the weekend, your Blackwater River camping adventure starts here.

What’s included with my canoe rental?

Each rental includes a stable canoe, paddles, and U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets for all participants. We also include shuttle service — we’ll drop you off upstream, and you’ll paddle back to our private headquarters with no pickups needed.
How long are the canoe trips, and what are my options?

You can choose between 1-hour, 3-hour, or full-day floats. The 1-hour option is great for beginners or families with young children. Our full-day trip is perfect if you want to spend time on sandbars, swim, or just enjoy a slow, scenic paddle. Final shuttle leaves at 3 PM — all trips must return by 5 PM.
Where do we launch and return?

We launch from our private access point near Holt, which is the northernmost canoe launch on the Blackwater River. That means more time paddling, less time walking, and the most scenic stretch of the river. All trips return directly to our property — no car shuffling required.
Is this good for beginners or kids?

Yes! The Blackwater River is known for calm, shallow waters and gentle current. It's one of the most beginner-friendly rivers in Florida. We welcome families with kids of all ages.
What should I bring?

We recommend: Sunscreen Water bottles or a cooler River shoes or sandals A towel and dry bag for valuables Snacks or lunch if you're out for a while A positive attitude — this is a laid-back float!
Can I bring my dog?

Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome in the canoe. Please make sure they’re comfortable on the water, and we recommend bringing a pet life jacket for safety.
Where are you located?

Blackwater Joe’s is located at 12375 Shammah Road in Holt, FL — just east of Milton and convenient to Crestview, Fort Walton Beach, Pensacola, and surrounding areas in Northwest Florida.
Do I need to book in advance?

We highly recommend booking in advance to guarantee your spot, especially on weekends and holidays. Limited walk-up availability may be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.