In Florida’s far northwest corner, past the last subdivisions of Milton and beyond the tourism corridor of the coast, the land opens up. Pines stretch skyward, roads narrow to two lanes, and the Blackwater River State Forest unfolds like a quiet secret. Here, tucked between tree lines and stitched into the fabric of old farm roads, sit a handful of towns—Harold, Munson, Berrydale—places easy to miss on a map but hard to forget once you’ve been.
These aren’t towns built around spectacle. They offer no curated quaintness or Instagram-ready backdrops. What they have instead is space—both physical and mental. Long horizons. Unrushed mornings. The hush of forest just outside your door. You’ll find community fish fries, front porch conversations, and a kind of quiet resilience shaped more by the land than by any outside trends.
This is not seclusion for seclusion’s sake. It’s the kind of slow living that grows naturally where nature still dominates and schedules bend to the pace of weather and season. In these corners of Santa Rosa and Okaloosa Counties, the draw isn’t what’s missing—it’s what’s quietly endured.
Here are 10 towns where the forest is thick, the noise is low, and the sense of place runs deep.
10. Allentown: Serenity Amidst Florida’s Lush Greenery
With a population of just over 800 residents, Allentown is a small community that embodies rural charm and spacious living. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Blackwater River State Forest, the town offers outdoor enthusiasts opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation.
Agriculture plays a significant role in the local economy, with fields of crops and pastures dotting the landscape. What makes Allentown secluded is its expansive land and low-density housing, allowing residents to enjoy privacy and the serene ambiance of nature.
Here, you can unwind under the canopy of lush greenery, far from the noise and stress of urban centers.
Where is Allentown?
Located in Santa Rosa County in northwest Florida, Allentown sits just north of Milton and is accessible via State Road 87. Its proximity to the state forest adds to its seclusion, as densely wooded areas envelop the town, creating a buffer from surrounding communities.
The limited roadways and absence of major highways contribute to its peaceful atmosphere. To get there, you can take Interstate 10 to Milton and then head north on State Road 87, where the journey transitions from cityscapes to the tranquil vistas of rural Florida.
9. McLellan: A Secluded Spot Off the Beaten Path
McLellan is a little-known community that offers a retreat into nature’s embrace. With only a handful of residents, it provides large properties surrounded by untouched forests and rolling landscapes. The area is ideal for those who appreciate solitude and the sounds of nature as their daily soundtrack.
There aren’t any major industries here, which adds to the quietude, but nearby towns offer amenities when needed. McLellan’s seclusion is defined by its remote location and the vast stretches of land that separate neighbors, making it perfect for those seeking a private sanctuary.
Where is McLellan?
Situated in the northern reaches of Santa Rosa County, McLellan is nestled near the Alabama border, away from major thoroughfares. The town is enveloped by the Blackwater River State Forest, enhancing its isolation and natural allure.
Accessing McLellan involves winding country roads that meander through dense forests and open fields, emphasizing the off-the-beaten-path experience. Travelers can take State Road 4 and venture onto smaller county roads, where the journey itself becomes part of the serene escape.
8. Chumuckla: Peaceful Living Under Starlit Skies
Chumuckla, home to around 850 people, is a rural haven characterized by expansive farmland and quiet country roads. The community is known for its annual Redneck Christmas Parade, showcasing its quirky charm and tight-knit spirit.
Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, is central to the local economy, and residents enjoy open skies perfect for stargazing. Chumuckla’s distance from urban centers and minimal light pollution contribute to its secluded atmosphere, offering a peaceful lifestyle under the glittering night sky.
Where is Chumuckla?
Located northwest of Pace in Santa Rosa County, Chumuckla is accessible via County Road 197. The town’s location away from major cities like Pensacola ensures a tranquil environment, free from traffic and city noise. The surrounding farmlands and forests create a natural barrier, enhancing the sense of seclusion.
Travelers can reach Chumuckla by taking US-90 to Pace and then heading north, where the scenery shifts from suburban to rural landscapes, signaling the entrance into this peaceful community.
7. Crestview: A Tranquil Gateway to Natural Wonders
Crestview, with a population of around 24,000, serves as a serene gateway to the natural beauty surrounding the Blackwater River State Forest.
Nestled amidst rolling hills and lush greenery, this charming town invites visitors to experience outdoor activities like canoeing along the peaceful Shoal River, hiking on trails that wind through nearby forests, or simply enjoying the unspoiled beauty of the region’s landscapes.
Crestview also boasts a friendly community and a small-town atmosphere, reflected in its locally owned shops and eateries. The town’s location and tranquil environment make it an ideal spot for those seeking a slower pace of life and a connection to nature.
Where is Crestview?
Situated in Okaloosa County, Crestview lies just north of Florida’s Emerald Coast and provides easy access to the Blackwater River State Forest. Known as the “Hub City” due to its convergence of major highways, the town is surrounded by expansive natural areas and a short drive from other scenic destinations in the Panhandle.
Visitors can enjoy a picturesque journey to Crestview, passing through verdant countryside and charming rural landscapes that set the stage for an unforgettable escape.
6. Baker: Embracing Quiet Living in the Countryside
Baker is a charming rural community with a population of approximately 800 residents. The town’s agricultural roots run deep, with local farms producing peanuts, cotton, and other crops. Residents cherish the ample space and the friendly, small-town atmosphere.
Recreational opportunities abound, including visits to nearby lakes and the Blackwater River for fishing and canoeing. Baker’s secluded nature stems from its distance from larger cities and its expansive open spaces, providing a tranquil environment ideal for privacy seekers.
Where is Baker?
Located in Okaloosa County, Baker is northwest of Crestview and accessible via State Road 189. Its position away from busy urban areas contributes to its quiet lifestyle. The town is surrounded by farmland and forests, which serve as a natural buffer from external activity.
Visitors can reach Baker by taking Interstate 10 to Crestview and then heading north, where the landscape transitions to peaceful rural settings that define this welcoming community.
5. Galliver: A Rural Haven Surrounded by Nature
Galliver is a small, unincorporated community that offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle. With a minimal population, residents enjoy vast stretches of undeveloped land, perfect for those seeking solitude. The area is rich in natural beauty, with easy access to outdoor activities like hiking and horseback riding.
The absence of major industries keeps the environment pristine and the community quiet. Galliver’s remote location and abundant natural surroundings afford a serene way of life far removed from the bustle of city living.
Where is Galliver?
Situated in Okaloosa County near the Santa Rosa County line, Galliver is accessed primarily through State Road 4. The community’s seclusion is enhanced by its position amid dense forests and limited connectivity to major highways.
Getting to Galliver involves traveling through scenic backroads that highlight the area’s natural charm. This journey underscores the sense of leaving the hectic pace of modern life behind and entering a tranquil haven.
4. Holt: Seclusion Near the Heart of the Forest
Holt is a small town with a population of around 3,200, offering residents a secluded lifestyle near the Blackwater River State Forest. The town is characterized by large lot sizes and a prevalence of natural barriers like forests and riverbanks, providing privacy and a connection to nature.
Outdoor recreation is a significant part of life in Holt, with opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and hiking. The local economy includes small businesses and services catering to residents and visitors alike. Holt’s proximity to the forest and its natural surroundings contribute to its secluded appeal.
Where is Holt?
Located in Okaloosa County, Holt lies along U.S. Route 90 and is just north of Interstate 10. While it’s more accessible than some other secluded towns, the dense forests and minimal development around Holt create a sense of isolation.
To reach Holt, travelers can take I-10 to Exit 45 and head north, finding themselves quickly enveloped by the calming presence of Florida’s woodlands. The town’s strategic location offers both convenience and a retreat from the hustle of larger cities.
3. Berrydale: Where Open Spaces Meet Southern Hospitality
Berrydale is a rural community known for its spacious landscapes and friendly residents. With a small population, the area offers low housing density, allowing for privacy and a peaceful way of life. Agriculture is prominent here, with local farms contributing to the region’s economy and charm.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities like hunting, fishing, and exploring the unspoiled nature that surrounds the town. Berrydale’s secluded atmosphere is enhanced by its wide-open spaces and the genuine Southern hospitality extended by its community members.
Where is Berrydale?
Situated in northern Santa Rosa County, Berrydale is located along State Road 4, east of Jay. The town’s remote location amid rolling farmlands and forests contributes to its sense of seclusion.
Accessing Berrydale involves traversing scenic country roads that wind through lush landscapes, emphasizing the departure from more populated areas. This journey through nature underscores the tranquility that awaits visitors and residents in this charming locale.
2. Harold: A Quiet Retreat Along the Blackwater River
Harold is a small community offering a serene setting near the Blackwater River. With fewer than 200 residents, it provides a peaceful escape for nature lovers and those seeking a slower pace of life. The town’s proximity to the river allows for activities like canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.
There are few commercial developments, which helps maintain the area’s quiet ambiance. Harold’s remote location and natural surroundings make it an ideal spot for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in the beauty of Florida’s wilderness.
Where is Harold?
Located in Santa Rosa County, east of Milton, Harold is accessible via U.S. Route 90. The community is nestled along the Blackwater River, with the state forest providing a lush backdrop. The area’s limited infrastructure and distance from major highways enhance its secluded feel.
To get to Harold, travelers can take U.S. 90 east from Milton, where the road gently curves through forested areas leading to this hidden retreat along the river.
1. Munson: A Hidden Gem Amidst Towering Pines
Munson is an unincorporated community situated within the heart of the Blackwater River State Forest. With an approximate population of just over 100 people, it epitomizes secluded living.
Residents enjoy unparalleled access to outdoor activities such as hiking the forest trails, fishing in the crystal-clear creeks, and observing local wildlife. There are no significant industries here, which preserves the natural tranquility of the area.
Munson’s seclusion is defined by its location deep within the forest, offering a serene environment enveloped by towering pines and untouched wilderness.
Where is Munson?
Found in northern Santa Rosa County, Munson is accessible via State Road 4, which cuts through the Blackwater River State Forest. The town’s position within the forest makes it one of the most secluded spots in the region. Limited roadways and the encompassing woodland create a natural barrier from the outside world.
To reach Munson, you can take State Road 87 north from Milton and then head east on State Road 4, where the journey becomes a scenic drive through one of Florida’s largest state forests, culminating in this hidden gem.
