Camping in Florida Panhandle: A Comprehensive Guide
Florida Panhandle is a slice of paradise that is often overlooked by tourists. The area is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, and it boasts a unique blend of Southern charm and laid-back coastal culture. If you’re looking for an unforgettable camping experience, Florida Panhandle should be at the top of your list. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best camping sites in the area, including glamping and primitive camping sites, state parks, and RV parks.
Glamping and Primitive Camping Sites in Florida Panhandle
If you’re looking for a luxurious camping experience, glamping is the way to go. Luckily, Florida Panhandle has some fantastic glamping sites that offer all the comfort of a hotel room in the middle of nature. The Wandering Path is a nature retreat in Milton, Florida, offering glamping and primitive camping sites on 20 acres of land with 2000 feet of water frontage alongside Coldwater Creek. The site has four glamping tents with full-size beds, electricity, and other amenities, as well as three primitive campsites. The campsite also has a centrally located bathhouse, 2000 feet of hiking trails, and kayaks for rent. The site is located less than an hour from Pensacola and Navarre beaches and 15-20 minutes from local grocery stores and restaurants. Prices start from $45 per night.
The Best State Parks for Camping in Florida Panhandle
Florida State Parks are often more cost-effective than private RV parks, and most are open year-round. Some parks also offer rental cabins, and reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance. If you’re looking for a camping experience near the beach, here are the best state parks to consider:
Big Lagoon State Park
Big Lagoon State Park is located on the mainland near Pensacola, and it offers a variety of camping options, including RV sites, cabins, and primitive campsites. The park is situated on the northern shoreline of Big Lagoon, which is a part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. The park offers hiking trails, fishing, and kayaking, as well as a beach area.
Henderson Beach State Park
Henderson Beach State Park is located in Destin, and it boasts a mile of pristine white sand beach. The park offers camping sites for RVs and tents, as well as rental cabins. The park also features hiking trails, fishing, and a playground.
Grayton Beach State Park
Grayton Beach State Park is located in Santa Rosa Beach, and it offers camping sites for RVs and tents, as well as rental cabins. The park is known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, as well as its hiking trails and fishing opportunities.
RV Parks in Florida Panhandle
If you’re traveling in an RV, Florida Panhandle has plenty of RV parks to choose from. Here are some of the best RV parks in the area:
Emerald Coast RV Resort
Emerald Coast RV Resort in Panama City Beach is a popular choice with over 100 sites and rental units. The park offers a clubhouse, swimming pool, laundry facilities, and a dog park. The park is located near the beach, and it offers easy access to local attractions and restaurants.
Pineglen Motorcoach and RV Park
Pineglen Motorcoach and RV Park is located in Panama City Beach, and it offers waterfront sites, a screened-in pool, and laundry facilities. The park is pet-friendly, and it offers easy access to local attractions and restaurants.
Destin West RV Resort
Destin West RV Resort in Fort Walton Beach offers beach access and access to the amenities of the Island Hotel. The park features a swimming pool, hot tub, fitness center, and laundry facilities.
Emerald Beach RV Park
Emerald Beach RV Park in Navarre has a dog-friendly beach, and it offers easy access to local attractions and restaurants. The park offers full hook-ups, laundry facilities, and a clubhouse.
Geronimo RV Park
Geronimo RV Park in Miramar Beach has basic services and public access to the beach. The park is located near local attractions and restaurants, and it offers easy access to the beach.
Tips for Camping in Florida Panhandle
Camping in Florida Panhandle is an excellent way to explore the area’s natural beauty and enjoy the great outdoors. However, it’s important to be prepared for your camping trip to ensure a comfortable and safe experience. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your Florida Panhandle camping trip:
Best Time to Go Camping in Florida Panhandle
Florida Panhandle has a subtropical climate, which means that the summers are hot and humid, and the winters are mild. The best time to go camping in Florida Panhandle is from October to April when the weather is cooler and drier. During this time, the temperatures range from the mid-50s to the mid-70s, and there is less rainfall.
Essential Gear for Camping in Florida Panhandle
When packing for your camping trip, it’s essential to bring the right gear to ensure your comfort and safety. Here are some items that you should consider bringing:
- Tent (with stakes and guylines)
- Sleeping bag and sleeping pad
- Camp stove and fuel
- Cookware and utensils
- Cooler and ice
- Water bottles and water filter
- Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries)
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
- First aid kit
- Map and compass
- Multi-tool or knife
- Firestarter or matches
Safety Tips for Camping in Florida Panhandle
Camping in Florida Panhandle can be a safe and enjoyable experience if you take the necessary precautions. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Always let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to return
- Be aware of the wildlife in the area and how to avoid dangerous encounters
- Keep your campsite clean and free of food scraps to avoid attracting animals
- Store food and garbage in bear-resistant containers or hang them from a tree at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet away from the trunk
- Be prepared for thunderstorms and have a plan in case of lightning
- Avoid camping near bodies of water during alligator mating season (April to June)
Rules and Regulations for Camping in Florida Panhandle
Before you go camping in Florida Panhandle, it’s essential to be aware of the rules and regulations for camping in the area. Here are some general rules to keep in mind:
- Obtain the necessary permits and pay the required fees
- Respect the natural resources and wildlife in the area
- Camp only in designated campsites
- Use established fire rings or camp stoves for cooking
- Leave no trace and pack out all trash
- Don’t disturb or remove plants, animals, or artifacts
- Follow the park’s quiet hours and other rules
Sources:
– According to Hipcamp, the best time to go camping in Florida Panhandle is from October to April when the weather is cooler and drier.
– Morton’s on the Move recommends bringing essential camping gear such as a tent, sleeping bags, cookware, and utensils.
– According to Snowbirding Central, it’s important to be aware of the wildlife in the area and how to avoid dangerous encounters when camping in Florida Panhandle.
– Camp Florida provides the general rules and regulations for camping in Florida, including obtaining permits and paying fees, camping only in designated campsites, and respecting the natural resources and wildlife in the area.
Best Campsites in Florida Panhandle
Florida Panhandle offers a wide range of camping options for nature lovers, from primitive campsites to fully equipped RV parks. Here are some of the best campsites in Florida Panhandle to consider for your next camping trip:
The Wandering Path
Located in Milton, Florida, The Wandering Path is a nature retreat offering glamping and primitive camping sites on 20 acres of land with 2000 feet of water frontage alongside Coldwater Creek. According to Hipcamp, the site has four glamping tents with full-size beds, electricity, and other amenities, as well as three primitive campsites. The campsite also has a centrally located bathhouse, 2000 feet of hiking trails, and kayaks for rent. The site is located less than an hour from Pensacola and Navarre beaches and 15-20 minutes from local grocery stores and restaurants. Prices start from $45 per night.
Florida State Parks
Florida State Parks offer a range of camping experiences in state parks, with opportunities for hiking, wildlife and bird watching, and paddling. Morton’s on the Move recommends several state parks with camping options near the beach, including:
- Big Lagoon State Park: Located in Pensacola, this park offers camping sites with water and electric hookups, as well as a boat ramp and fishing pier.
- Henderson Beach State Park: Located in Destin, this park offers camping sites with water and electric hookups, as well as beach access and a playground.
- Grayton Beach State Park: Located in Santa Rosa Beach, this park offers camping sites with water and electric hookups, as well as beach access and hiking trails.
Private RV Parks
Private RV parks in Florida Panhandle offer a range of amenities, including swimming pools, laundry facilities, and Wi-Fi. According to Camp Florida, some of the best private RV parks in the area include:
- Emerald Coast RV Resort: Located in Panama City Beach, this park has over 100 sites and rental units, as well as a swimming pool and laundry facilities.
- Pineglen Motorcoach and RV Park: Located in Panama City, this park has a screened-in pool and waterfront sites available.
- Destin West RV Resort: Located in Fort Walton Beach, this park offers beach access and access to the amenities of the Island Hotel.
- Emerald Beach RV Park: Located in Navarre, this park has a dog-friendly beach.
- Geronimo RV Park: Located in Miramar Beach, this park has basic services and public access to the beach.
Whether you prefer glamping, primitive camping, or RV camping, Florida Panhandle has something for everyone. Consider these top campsites for your next outdoor adventure in the area.
Sources:
– Hipcamp provides information about The Wandering Path campsite in Milton, Florida.
– Morton’s on the Move recommends several state parks with camping options near the beach, including Big Lagoon State Park, Henderson Beach State Park, and Grayton Beach State Park.
– Camp Florida provides information about private RV parks in the Florida Panhandle area.
Things to Do While Camping in Florida Panhandle
Camping in Florida Panhandle offers an opportunity to explore the area’s natural beauty and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Here are some of the things you can do while camping in Florida Panhandle:
Beach Activities
Florida Panhandle is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with white sand and crystal-clear waters. Whether you prefer sunbathing, swimming, or surfing, the beaches in the area offer something for everyone. Some of the best beaches to visit while camping in Florida Panhandle include:
- Pensacola Beach: Located on Santa Rosa Island, Pensacola Beach offers 8 miles of white sand and emerald-green waters. The beach is also home to the Pensacola Beach Pier, where you can fish or watch for dolphins.
- Navarre Beach: Located between Pensacola Beach and Destin, Navarre Beach offers 12 miles of pristine shoreline and a laid-back atmosphere. The beach is also home to the Navarre Beach Fishing Pier, where you can fish or watch the sunset.
- Grayton Beach State Park: Located in Santa Rosa Beach, Grayton Beach State Park offers beach access and hiking trails. The beach is also popular for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Water Activities
In addition to the beaches, Florida Panhandle offers a variety of water activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Some of the best spots for water activities in the area include:
- Coldwater Creek: Located near The Wandering Path campsite in Milton, Coldwater Creek offers a scenic paddling experience with crystal-clear waters and sandbars for picnicking.
- Blackwater River State Park: Located in Holt, Blackwater River State Park offers a variety of water activities, including kayaking, tubing, and fishing. The park is also home to a campground with primitive campsites.
- Choctawhatchee River: Located in the heart of Florida Panhandle, Choctawhatchee River offers a scenic paddling experience with plenty of wildlife, including alligators and turtles.
Hiking and Biking
Florida Panhandle is also home to a variety of hiking and biking trails, with opportunities to explore the area’s natural beauty and wildlife. Some of the best hiking and biking trails in the area include:
- Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park: Located in Pensacola, Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park offers a variety of hiking trails, with opportunities to see rare plants and animals, including the carnivorous white-top pitcher plant.
- Blackwater Heritage State Trail: Located in Milton, Blackwater Heritage State Trail offers a 8.1-mile paved trail for biking and hiking, with opportunities to see historic sites and natural beauty.
- Pine Log State Forest: Located in Ebro, Pine Log State Forest offers a variety of hiking and biking trails, with opportunities to see wildlife, including deer and wild turkey.
Whether you prefer beach activities, water activities, or hiking and biking, Florida Panhandle offers something for everyone. Consider these activities for your next camping trip in the area.
Sources:
– Florida State Parks provides information about hiking and biking trails in Florida Panhandle, including Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park and Pine Log State Forest.
– Visit Florida provides information about the best beaches to visit while camping in Florida Panhandle.
– The Crazy Tourist provides information about the best water activities to do while camping in Florida Panhandle.
Plan Your Next Camping Trip to Florida Panhandle
Florida Panhandle offers a variety of camping options and outdoor activities for nature lovers. Whether you prefer glamping, primitive camping, or RV camping, there’s something for everyone in the area. Here are some tips for planning your next camping trip to Florida Panhandle:
Choose the Right Campsite
The first step in planning your camping trip is to choose the right campsite. Consider your preferences and needs, such as amenities, location, and activities. Some of the best campsites in Florida Panhandle include The Wandering Path, Florida State Parks, and private RV parks. Check availability and make reservations in advance to ensure you get the campsite you want.
Pack the Essentials
When packing for your camping trip, make sure to bring the essentials, such as:
- Tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad
- Cooking gear, including stove, fuel, and utensils
- Food and water
- Clothing and footwear appropriate for the weather and activities
- First-aid kit and personal medication
- Sunscreen, insect repellent, and other personal care items
- Maps and navigation tools
Plan Your Activities
Florida Panhandle offers a variety of outdoor activities, including beach activities, water activities, hiking, and biking. Research the area and plan your activities in advance to make the most of your trip. Some of the best activities to do while camping in Florida Panhandle include visiting the beaches, kayaking or paddleboarding, fishing, and hiking or biking the trails.
Follow Leave No Trace Principles
When camping in Florida Panhandle, it’s important to follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment. Some of the key principles include:
- Plan ahead and prepare
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impact
- Respect wildlife
Check the Weather
Florida Panhandle weather can be unpredictable, with thunderstorms and hurricanes common during certain seasons. Check the weather forecast in advance and prepare accordingly. Bring rain gear and extra layers for cold temperatures, and be prepared to evacuate in case of severe weather.
Check Out Our Other Great Content
If you enjoyed this article, be sure to check out our other great content for camping and outdoor enthusiasts. From tips and tricks to product reviews and destination guides, we have everything you need to plan your next adventure.
Happy camping!
Sources:
– Leave No Trace provides information about Leave No Trace principles.
– National Park Service provides information about camping essentials and tips.
Common Questions
Who can camp in Florida Panhandle?
Anyone can camp in Florida Panhandle, from families to solo travelers.
What are the best beaches for camping in Florida Panhandle?
Some of the best beaches for camping in Florida Panhandle include Pensacola Beach, Navarre Beach, and Grayton Beach State Park.
How much does it cost to camp in Florida Panhandle?
Camping fees in Florida Panhandle vary depending on the campsite and amenities. Prices can range from $15 per night for primitive camping to $50 per night for glamping.
What are the best activities to do while camping in Florida Panhandle?
The best activities to do while camping in Florida Panhandle include beach activities, water activities, hiking, and biking.
How do I make a reservation for camping in Florida Panhandle?
Reservations for camping in Florida Panhandle can be made online through Florida State Parks or private RV park websites.
What should I do in case of severe weather while camping in Florida Panhandle?
In case of severe weather while camping in Florida Panhandle, follow evacuation orders and seek shelter in a safe location. Stay informed about the weather forecast and have an emergency plan in place.
