Escambia County Lake Stone Campground

For Floridians, the allure of a tranquil escape to nature, particularly one centered around a beautiful freshwater lake, is undeniable. Escambia County Lake Stone Campground, nestled in Century, FL, offers just such an experience. This county-maintained park provides a welcoming and clean environment for campers looking to unwind, fish, and enjoy the quieter side of the Florida Panhandle. While recent customer reviews highlight some management challenges, the fundamental qualities of the campground—its cleanliness, scenic setting, and essential amenities—remain strong draws for locals.

Century, located in northern Escambia County, offers a sense of peaceful rural charm, far removed from the bustling coastal tourism, yet still within a reasonable drive for many in Northwest Florida. Lake Stone itself is a 130-acre man-made impoundment, created in 1967 and known for its excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, and Catfish. This makes the campground a prime destination for anglers and families seeking a serene lakeside retreat.

The reviews, while expressing frustration with a specific manager's demeanor and interpretation of rules, consistently praise the physical attributes of the campground: "It's a nice campground, clean restrooms, nice park" and "The place is nice enough to look at..Clean facilities." This indicates that the core infrastructure and natural beauty of Escambia County Lake Stone Campground are well-maintained and appealing. For Floridians, especially those looking for a clean and affordable option for RV or tent camping with lake access, these foundational elements are incredibly important. The potential for a management change, or simply knowing what to expect, might encourage many to still consider this otherwise well-regarded location for their next outdoor adventure.

This article will delve into the specifics of Escambia County Lake Stone Campground, providing a comprehensive overview of its location and accessibility, the services and amenities it offers, its key features and highlights, and important contact information. Our goal is to equip fellow Floridians with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision and potentially discover their new favorite freshwater camping spot.

Escambia County Lake Stone Campground is conveniently situated at 801 County Rd 4, Century, FL 32535, USA. This address places it in the northern reaches of Escambia County, in the small, charming town of Century. Century is located in the Florida Panhandle, approximately 45 minutes northeast of Pensacola, offering a more rural and quiet setting compared to the bustling coastal areas.

The campground's location on County Road 4 (also known as State Road 4) ensures excellent accessibility by vehicle. It's approximately 1.5 miles west of U.S. Highway 29, a major north-south artery in Northwest Florida. This means campers arriving from various parts of Florida or neighboring states can reach the campground with relative ease, avoiding complex navigation or excessively remote routes. The straightforward access is a significant advantage for those towing RVs or trailers.

Being in Century, campers have access to basic town amenities within a short driving distance. This includes local gas stations, convenience stores, and perhaps a few small eateries for stocking up on supplies or grabbing forgotten items. For more extensive shopping or dining options, the larger city of Pensacola is within a manageable drive.

The primary geographical highlight of the campground's location is its position directly on Lake Stone. This 130-acre man-made lake provides the central focus for recreation at the campground. While gasoline boat motors are prohibited on Lake Stone to maintain its peaceful environment, electric trolling motors are allowed. This ensures a calm and quiet setting for fishing, paddling, and enjoying the freshwater ecosystem. The presence of a concrete boat ramp and additional crushed rock launching site, along with earthen fishing fingers for bank anglers, emphasizes the lake's accessibility for various water-based activities. The natural surroundings of the Florida Panhandle, with its pine forests and freshwater habitats, complete the scenic appeal of the location, offering a serene backdrop for an enjoyable camping experience for Floridians.

Escambia County Lake Stone Campground offers a range of essential services and amenities designed to provide a comfortable and functional camping experience on its beautiful freshwater lake. As a county-maintained facility, it aims to meet standard camping needs for both RV and tent campers.

The core services and facilities provided include:

• Campsites: The campground features 77 campsites, capable of accommodating a variety of setups from large RVs to tents.
• Electrical Hookups: Sites are equipped with electrical hookups, supporting various amperage needs (likely 30 and 50 amp services for RVs, and 20 amp for tents/smaller needs).
• Water Hookups: Potable water connections are available at the campsites, providing convenient access to fresh water.
• Sewage Dump Station: While individual sewage hookups may not be available at every site (as sometimes indicated by reviews or common county park setups), the campground is confirmed to have a central sewage dump station for RV waste disposal.
• Restroom Facilities: Clean and well-maintained restrooms are available for all campers, as consistently noted in reviews.
• Shower Facilities: Showers are provided within the restroom buildings, offering hot water for camper convenience.
• Fishing Pier: A dedicated fishing pier provides an accessible spot for anglers to cast a line directly into Lake Stone.
• Boat Ramp: A concrete boat ramp, along with an additional crushed rock launching site, allows for easy access to Lake Stone for boats with electric trolling motors (gasoline motors are prohibited).
• Picnic Areas: Designated picnic areas are available for day use and for campers to enjoy outdoor meals.
• Playground: A playground is on-site, offering recreational opportunities for children.
• Indoor Public Use Building: The campground includes an indoor public use building, which could be utilized for gatherings or as a communal space (though sometimes such facilities may be kept locked, as suggested by some external reviews of county parks).
• Security Lights: The campground is equipped with security lights to enhance safety and visibility at night.
• On-site Manager/Caretaker: There is a resident caretaker or manager on duty, responsible for overseeing the campground's operations and enforcing rules.
• Ice and Firewood: While not explicitly stated in provided text, most campgrounds, especially those with an office/store, typically offer ice and firewood for sale. The Hipcamp listing mentions a "small 'country store' available within the office for the campground" where "various items are ready for purchase."

These services collectively aim to provide a comfortable and equipped setting for campers looking to enjoy the natural surroundings of Lake Stone.

Escambia County Lake Stone Campground, despite some noted management issues, possesses several compelling features and highlights that make it an attractive destination for Floridians seeking a specific type of outdoor experience. Its core offerings and natural setting are undeniable draws.

• Pristine Freshwater Lake Setting: The most significant highlight is its unique position on Lake Stone, a 130-acre man-made freshwater impoundment. It stands out as Escambia County's "only facility located on a fresh water lake," offering a serene alternative to saltwater coastal camping. This lake is stocked with various fish species, making it an excellent destination for freshwater fishing enthusiasts.
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: With gasoline motors prohibited on Lake Stone (only electric trolling motors allowed), the campground maintains a remarkably quiet and peaceful ambiance. This is a major draw for campers seeking a tranquil escape from noise and crowds, allowing for genuine relaxation and appreciation of nature.
• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: Multiple reviews consistently praise the "clean restrooms" and "clean facilities" throughout the park. This commitment to cleanliness is a crucial factor for camper comfort and satisfaction, ensuring a pleasant stay.
• Accommodates All Rig Sizes: The campground has 77 campsites, including those "recently updated to accommodate the more modern and much larger RV's." This makes it "big rig friendly," capable of comfortably hosting a wide range of recreational vehicles alongside tent camping options.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Lake Stone is a designated Fish Management Area, stocked with Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, Redear Sunfish, Black Crappie, and Channel Catfish. The presence of a fishing pier and earthen fishing fingers for bank anglers, along with a boat ramp for electric-motor boats, highlights its appeal for avid and casual anglers alike.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: The inclusion of a playground provides a designated space for children to play, making the campground more appealing for families. The overall peaceful environment also contributes to a safe and enjoyable setting for all ages.
• Essential Hookups and Dump Station: The availability of water and electric hookups at sites, combined with a central sewage dump station, offers crucial conveniences for modern camping. This allows campers to enjoy the comforts of their RVs or power their tent setups while immersing themselves in nature.
• Value and Affordability: While not explicitly stated in the provided reviews, county parks are often known for offering more affordable camping rates compared to private resorts or some state parks, presenting good value for locals.

These features collectively define Escambia County Lake Stone Campground as a go-to spot for Floridians who prioritize a clean, quiet, and well-equipped freshwater camping experience, especially for fishing and family enjoyment.

For Floridians looking to plan a visit to Escambia County Lake Stone Campground, direct contact information is readily available through official county channels. While some online reviews mention a caretaker, the most reliable way to get information, inquire about availability, or make reservations is through the official Escambia County Parks and Recreation department.

• Address:

  801 County Rd 4,

  Century, FL 32535, USA

• Phone Number:

  (850) 256-5555

• Mobile Phone:

  +1 850-256-5555 (This is the same number, often provided for comprehensive dialing options. For local use, the standard number suffices.)

• Escambia County Parks and Recreation Office:

  For general park information, pavilion rentals, or broader inquiries, you can also contact the main Parks and Recreation office.

  Phone: (850) 475-5220

• Official Website:

  The primary official source for information on Escambia County Lake Stone Campground is the Escambia County Parks and Recreation website. Look for a section dedicated to "Lake Stone Campground" under their Parks and Recreation services. This site will typically provide details on amenities, rates, rules, and sometimes reservation procedures.

  Website: myescambia.com/our-services/parks-and-recreation/lake-stone-campground

• Online Reservation Portals:

  While some county parks handle reservations directly, others may utilize a third-party booking platform. Checking the official Escambia County website or calling the park directly will clarify their preferred reservation method. Some information may also be found on platforms like Hipcamp or The Dyrt, though direct county contact is usually most authoritative.

It is always recommended to call the campground directly at (850) 256-5555 or visit the official Escambia County website for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding rules, availability, and specific guidelines, especially considering the feedback about management and rule enforcement.

For Floridians, Escambia County Lake Stone Campground in Century presents a suitable and attractive option for a freshwater camping experience, offering a distinct alternative to the state's popular coastal campsites. Despite some noted concerns regarding the on-site manager, the intrinsic value of this park for local users remains high.

Firstly, its location in northern Escambia County provides an accessible yet serene escape from the more populated urban and tourist hubs of Florida. For residents of the Panhandle and beyond, it offers a convenient drive to a peaceful, natural setting. The focus on a beautiful 130-acre freshwater lake, where gasoline motors are prohibited, ensures a quiet environment ideal for relaxation, fishing, and non-motorized water activities. This tranquility is a significant draw for Floridians seeking a genuine escape from the hustle and bustle.

Secondly, the campground's foundational features are well-regarded and cater to essential camping needs. With 77 campsites, including options for large RVs and tents, all equipped with water and electric hookups, it provides the necessary comforts for a pleasant stay. The consistent praise for "clean restrooms" and "clean facilities" is a crucial factor for any camper, demonstrating that the county maintains high standards of hygiene, which is paramount for a comfortable outdoor experience.

Moreover, the opportunities for recreation, particularly fishing, make Lake Stone an excellent choice for local anglers and families. The stocked lake, fishing pier, and boat ramp for electric trolling motors mean that a day of productive fishing is easily within reach. For families, the presence of a playground adds to the park's appeal, providing dedicated space for children's activities.

While the anecdotal feedback about the caretaker should be considered, many Floridians find that the overall cleanliness, amenities, and peaceful natural setting of Escambia County Lake Stone Campground outweigh these issues. Its affordability as a county park often adds to its suitability, making a refreshing outdoor getaway accessible. For any Floridian seeking a clean, quiet, and well-equipped freshwater camping experience where fishing and relaxation are primary goals, Lake Stone Campground offers a compelling choice to enjoy the natural beauty of our state.

Escambia County Lake Stone Campground

801 County Rd 4, Century, FL 32535, USA