Where to Have a Frightfully Good Time in the Corridor This Halloween
Activities for ghosts and ghouls of all ages
You won’t need a magical potion or spell for a hauntingly good time in the Corridor this month.
From pumpkin patches to spooky nocturnal paddling and after-dark creature features, we’re brewing up the best of Halloween in the Corridor — no cauldron needed.
Read on — if you dare — to find everything from family friendly events to scary movie nights.
Camp Helen State Park
Located about 25 miles west of downtown Panama City on Florida’s Panhandle, this park features multiple Halloween treats that will delight goblins and ghouls of all ages with a month long pumpkin patch, a family-friendly movie night and a Halloween-themed paddling adventure.
Pumpkin Patch: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. daily entire month
Each year, the Friends of Camp Helen set up a pumpkin patch where you can hunt for that perfect jack-o-lantern. With over 1,000 pumpkins from tangerine to watermelon size, this patch is sure to be a big hit with the kids. It also features face-in-the-hole boards and straw bales for the perfect photo op. In fact, the patch is so popular for photo taking that several professional photographers bring clients in for family shots.
‘Hocus Pocus’ Showing: 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 22
If you’re looking for a free family-friendly event after dark, you’re in luck, as the park will host a showing of the classic Halloween film “Hocus Pocus” on the big screen. As a bonus, this outdoor event includes bonfires and s’mores, making it a night your kids are sure to remember for years to come. Just make sure you pre-register in advance.
Witch’s Paddle on Lake Powell: 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 29
Want to have some Halloween fun without the kids? Then be sure to check out the Witch’s Paddle on Lake Powell. Make sure you wear your best witch, wizard or flying monkey costume for this free group paddling adventure. A limited number of kayaks and paddle boards will be available for the event, which requires pre-registration. Once all paddlers have assembled, the spooky group will make its way across Lake Powell and down through the Inlet to the beach before wrapping up with a sunset picnic and paddling back.
Manatee Springs State Park
Bark-O-Ween: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 22
Located about 46 miles west of Gainesville, this park is going to the dogs this Halloween and it promises to be a howling good time. You can enjoy Bark-O-Ween with the Bark Ranger Program, a costume contest and a pet-friendly hike. Williston Animal Group will also have dogs available for adoption. Entry fees to the park are waived for the event.
The Bark Ranger Program helps teach dog owners how to responsibly handle their pups in national and state parks. Bark is the acronym for the four-step program: Bag your poop; Always wear a leash; Respect wildlife; Know where to go.
Wakulla Springs State Park
‘Creature From the Black Lagoon’: 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 22
Looking for a creature feature this Halloween? Look no further than Wakulla Springs State Park, located just 15 miles south of Tallahassee. The after-dark screening of the classic horror film “The Creature From The Black Lagoon” is free with park entry.
The park will also show the long-lost spoof/sequel “Return Of The Creature,” as well as “The Creature Walks Among Us.” Vintage trailer reels will be shown between each feature. A boom box or radio is recommended for listening in, and snacks are available at the lodge.
Know of a great Halloween-related event in the Corridor? Let us know on social media @LiveWildlyFL
