Crestview, Florida offers diverse camping options within easy reach of both the Gulf Coast and inland waterways. Located in Okaloosa County at about 235 feet above sea level, Crestview experiences a humid subtropical climate with mild winters averaging 45-65°F and hot summers reaching 90°F regularly. The region's camping accommodations range from traditional tent sites to specialized options like yurts amid north Florida's mixed pine and oak forests.
What to do
Kayaking and paddling excursions: Adventures Unlimited in Milton offers rentals and guided tours on Blackwater River with clear, sandy-bottomed waters. "I have been going here since I was a little boy and was finally able to take my wife to camp here. I love this place... The canoe trip is a must!!" notes Lance B.
Beach access within 30 minutes: Camp On The Gulf provides camping with direct beach proximity. "We had a good time camping here. The beach was beautiful. The week we were there they had a different activity for the kids each day," shares Monica G., highlighting the family-oriented atmosphere beyond just beach time.
Fishing from campground piers: Avalon Landing RV Park offers fishing opportunities right from the property. "Breathtaking views and we were able to fish behind our camper. You're so close to all the 'action' without hearing or having to be part of it. They have a boat ramp, rent fishing poles & kayaks," explains Bobbie S.
Hiking trails and nature exploration: Topsail Hill Preserve State Park features coastal dune ecosystems with walking trails. "Keep in mind, this is a Preserve. Good trails, coastal dunes with lakes, fishing, paddling, beach, cabins, and tent camping including Glamping!" says James M., emphasizing the natural diversity.
What campers like
Private tent sites: Topsail Hill Preserve offers secluded tent camping areas. "We were at one of the few 'tent' campsites in the park. Our site was back off the road in the brush - very private even with a trail just on the other side of the bushes," notes John O., highlighting the separation from RV areas.
Pool and splash pad facilities: Milton-Gulf Pines KOA includes family water features. "Great staff. Pool was nice! Great little putt putt area for kids. Spots are good sized, although we had a premium spot for the patio & grill," reports Jimmy L., mentioning additional recreation options beyond swimming.
Concrete pads at waterfront sites: Twin Lakes Camp Resort provides level, well-constructed camping pads. "A private, gated road leads to level, stamped concrete pads landscaped with red lava rock around 2 lakes with great fishing either on the water or newly renovated or rebuilt piers lighted for night fishing," explains Shannon J.
Yurt camping options in Crestview, Florida area: Multiple campgrounds near Crestview offer yurt accommodations. Twin Lakes Camp Resort includes these popular structures among their offerings. "Lake surrounds all sites. Beautiful setting. Private baths. Huge amenities center. Fishing and glamping tents," notes Sandy G.
What you should know
Limited tent camping at some parks: Eglin AFB FamCamp primarily serves RVs with few tent options. "Nice Famcamp with pull thru spots, laundry and showers. You are close to BX/Commissary and if you like the sound of planes it is awesome!" shares Gayle A., noting military aircraft noise.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. For Twin Lakes Camp Resort, "We stayed at Twin Lakes RV Park FL for 10 days and for what we payed for that time would have only payed for one night at a hotel," Michael T. mentions, indicating value but suggesting planning ahead.
Weather considerations: The region can experience severe weather and high humidity. "I was here for the snow fall. The electric hook up was a saving grace. Now this is in the flight path of Eglin AFB. The staff is excellent both friendly and helpful," notes Michael D. at Topsail Hill, highlighting rare cold snaps.
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have tricky entrance roads. At Adventures Unlimited, "The road to the damp grounds are very sandy and iffy when it rains," warns Lance B., suggesting caution during wet conditions when accessing yurt camping near Crestview.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-focused activities: Splash RV Resort & Waterpark offers extensive children's amenities. "We have been to Splash RV two times now. Last time was before school started, and it has been our granddaughters favorite RV park so far. There are a lot of activities planned for the kids...the free donuts on the weekend, were a hit," shares L&A C.
Consider sites with playground access: Many campgrounds feature play areas for children. "All in all great spot. I'll be back soon!" notes Travis D. about Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, where families appreciate the mix of natural areas and designated play spaces.
Seek out campgrounds with family bathrooms: Clean, private facilities make camping with kids easier. "The bathrooms were very clean and they have individual shower rooms that have a toilet and sink too," reports Monica G. about Camp On The Gulf, noting the convenience of multi-purpose bath facilities.
Choose yurt camping for Crestview, Florida family trips: Yurts provide comfort without sacrificing outdoor experiences. At Navarre Beach Camping Resort, families appreciate the balance of comfort and nature. "We tent camped but we had a nice shady spot on a comfortable raised sand bed. This campground has it's own sweet little beach and pier," Katie N. explains.
Tips from RVers
Site angles matter for big rigs: Milton-Gulf Pines KOA requires careful navigation. "This is a KOA Holiday park with buddy sites. RV sites are long enough for 44 ft motorhome and toad. However sites are at 90 degree angle and hard to get into for big rigs, but doable," advises James R.
Request assistance when backing in: Avalon Landing RV Park offers help with parking. "The staff was so helpful. We were taken to our site and we were guided as we backed up our RV. The grounds were nice and everything worked," shares Annette V. about the arrival process.
Check for road noise: Several campgrounds sit near highways. At Avalon Landing, Warren B. notes it's a "Nice place..clean place..60 bucks a night.." but mentions "road noise at night" as a consideration for light sleepers.
Verify hookup options: Campgrounds vary in electrical service. At Twin Lakes, "There is a potable water faucet and a two plug 30 amp electrical outlet at each site," Michael D. explains, providing specific information about available connections.
