Tent and RV camping options near Destin provide access to both Gulf Coast beaches and inland waterways throughout the year. The climate remains mild with average daytime temperatures ranging 60-90°F seasonally, though summer humidity levels frequently exceed 80%. Campgrounds in the area typically feature sandy soil conditions requiring sturdy tent stakes and ground tarps during setup.
What to do
Beach swimming: 2 blocks from Destin RV Beach Resort. The location provides quick access to Gulf waters with public restrooms available at beach access points. "We stayed at site 44 and it was private and near the bathrooms. There's a path to the beach from the bathhouse," notes Elizabeth G. from Henderson Beach State Park Campground.
Paddling on Western Lake: The inland waterways at Grayton Beach State Park Campground offer protected paddling opportunities. "We were able to put our kayaks in right off the site," reports Aida K. The park features both coastal dune lakes and Gulf access through a single trail system.
Trail exploration: Topsail Hill Preserve trails connect coastal dunes with freshwater lakes. "Cool shorter hiking trails to take you to lakes or the gulf, or as we call it Lake Florida now," writes Travis D. The hiking system includes approximately 3.5 miles of maintained pathways through scrub habitats.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The vegetation barriers between campsites create separation from neighbors. "The sites are luscious and private," reports Lynn A. about Henderson Beach State Park Campground. The natural scrub creates visual barriers between camping areas.
Access to multiple water bodies: The combination of bay and Gulf access from a single location appeals to water enthusiasts. "Right on Choctawhatchee Bay, less than 5 minutes drive from Destin Harbor," explains Jason B. from Destin Army Recreation Area. This allows for both calm water activities and Gulf experiences.
Clean facilities: The consistently well-maintained bathhouses receive positive feedback across locations. "The bathrooms were very clean and well maintained throughout our stay," notes Tony C. The facilities typically include hot water showers and flush toilets with regular maintenance schedules.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Securing spots requires advance planning due to high demand. "Book well in advance it's very popular!" advises Larry from Henderson Beach State Park. Most campgrounds open reservation windows 11 months in advance.
Site specifications vary: Not all sites accommodate the same equipment configurations. "Pay attention to the size site you reserve some of them are more narrow and less deep than others. It can make backing in a challenge," cautions Andrea W. from Camp On The Gulf.
Military-only options: Some of the area's campgrounds restrict access to military personnel and their guests. "These military sites are not open to the public and you have to have to either be currently serving or a veteran to use the space," explains Asher K. regarding Mid Bay Shores Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Kids' activities: Many dog-friendly campgrounds near Destin offer scheduled children's programs. "The week we were there they had a different activity for the kids each day. They had painting sand dollars, bubba the alligator show, face painting and even an Easter egg hunt," shares Monica G. from Camp On The Gulf.
Open play spaces: Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park Campground provides designated recreation areas. "Park has boating ramp to the bayou. Close to beaches in Destin, yet away from the hustle and bustle," notes Kim B. The campground maintains separate play areas away from camping loops.
Family shower rooms: Some facilities offer private family bathroom options. "Family showers are also available, which is very helpful with little kids," adds Kim B. These units typically include toilet, sink and shower facilities in a single lockable room.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Be prepared for minor leveling challenges at some locations. "We required a couple of blocks to achieve level but still very good for an all gravel site," advises Tony C. Most sites feature crushed shell or gravel pads requiring minimal adjustment.
Site selection strategy: When visiting Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground, specific site locations offer different benefits. "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," explains John O. The campground features both open and secluded site options.
Beach transport options: Getting gear to beaches often requires planning. "We also rented a cart buggy to haul our stuff to and from the beach for $5 a day and it came in handy taking laundry to the laundry area," notes Monica G. Several campgrounds offer equipment rental services for beach access.
