Several upscale camping options exist near Eglin Air Force Base, located in Florida's western panhandle region where the climate remains mild in winter but can reach 90°F with high humidity during summer months. Beyond the beachfront glamping options, the area offers diverse camping experiences on freshwater lakes, within state preserves, and at military-exclusive facilities with varying levels of amenities and accessibility.
What to do
Military history exploration: The Eglin Air Force Base area offers multiple opportunities to explore military aviation history, with the base itself hosting historical aircraft. "Eglin visitors center (for kids and military history followers)" is mentioned by one reviewer at Eglin AFB FamCamp, who also notes you can enjoy "the free airshow every morning" as fighter jets take off from the airfield.
Fishing opportunities: The twin lakes at Twin Lakes Camp Resort provide excellent freshwater fishing. "Lake surrounds all sites. Beautiful setting...Fishing and glamping tents," notes Sandy G. The resort features "a lot of wooden fishing docks" and boats to rent according to Cynthia K.
Beach activities: The white sand beaches are a main attraction. At Fort Pickens Campground, "Campsites are a short ¼ mile from the gorgeous beaches," reports Nancy W. According to Deborah C., "The beach and water were just beautiful."
Water recreation: Beyond swimming, many campgrounds offer additional water-based activities. At Splash RV Resort & Waterpark, one visitor mentions, "Pools, lazy river and water slides were open... The heated pool was a hit with the kids."
What campers like
Quiet, secluded spots: Despite being in a popular tourist area, campers can find peaceful locations. At Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground, "The tent sites are all separated and private," notes Robin B., who adds it has "access to the most lovely beach! The beach backs onto the preserve so there is no development for miles."
Convenient amenities: Campers appreciate full hookups and comfortable facilities. According to a Twin Lakes Camp Resort visitor, they have "likely, the nicest shower rooms you'll encounter on the rv trail" and "level, stamped concrete pads landscaped with red lava rock around 2 lakes."
Waterfront sites: Direct access to water features is highly valued. At Navarre Beach Camping Resort, Greg P. mentions a "Small private beach area" that's "only a short drive to the public beaches of Navarre." Another camper describes it as having "its own sweet little beach and pier."
Clean facilities: Consistently clean bathrooms and common areas matter to campers. One visitor to Splash RV Resort noted, "Staff is constantly cleaning up. Plenty of washers and dryers for laundry" while another mentioned "The bathrooms were super clean and updated."
What you should know
Military ID requirements: For military campgrounds, proper identification is mandatory. At Eglin AFB FamCamp, Michelle R. notes: "Department of defense ID is required for entry!"
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise. At Splash RV Resort, one camper warns: "It's loud by the highway. You can't enjoy your camping on half of the campground." Another notes: "Overall it was nice and affordable for the area... Just not really my cup of tea."
Tight spacing: Many RV parks have limited space between sites. At Camp On The Gulf, Shannon J. warns: "Parking your rig is TIGHT. Like super tight." Another reviewer mentions: "This is a super congested area in the popular Destin area. The compact campground can feel claustrophobic."
Natural hazards: The Gulf region has some wildlife concerns. At Fort Pickens, one visitor mentioned: "We did see a lot of jellyfish in the water so be aware of that." Another warns: "Sand spurs are on all the trails so be careful and bring your flops. Also bring the bug spray for sure!"
Tips for camping with families
Water park alternatives: When beach weather isn't ideal, water parks provide good options. At Splash RV Resort, Jason W. shares: "Entertainment, pools, water slides and a lazy river... We live here locally and it's great to have this place so close allowing us to save on the crazy gas prices."
Educational opportunities: Incorporate learning into your trip. Nancy W. recalls from Fort Pickens: "Ranger-led tours occur during the year and are very fun and informative. We went on a full moon night hike where the ranger talk focused on astrology and how moon phases impact some animals."
Activity planning: Campgrounds often offer organized activities for children. A visitor to Camp On The Gulf mentioned: "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."
Space considerations: Choose sites with adequate play space. At Topsail Hill, Latika Y. notes: "We stayed with two small tents in T6, which had some shade but was also adjacent to an open field area, which would be great for kiddos who want room to spread out and play games."
Tips from RVers
Site selection research: Review the campground map before booking. At Splash RV Resort, one camper advises: "I would recommend looking at the map online, before booking, to make sure you choose the right spot for your RV as some are closer together than others."
Backing challenges: Some sites require careful maneuvering. An RVer at Camp On The Gulf noted: "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."
Traffic timing: Plan travel around base traffic patterns. At Eglin AFB FamCamp, a visitor recommends: "Learn and know the high traffic times as depending on where one is off base during traffic hours can mean the difference between 15min or 1hr trying to get somewhere due to how channelized the routes are here."
Weather considerations: The Florida panhandle experiences varied conditions. Michael D. at Topsail Hill comments: "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."
