Tent camping near Eglin Air Force Base presents alternatives to the popular RV parks in the region. The surrounding state parks and campgrounds offer sites set among coastal dunes, pine forests, and waterfront locations with elevations rarely exceeding 100 feet above sea level. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-65°F while summer months climb to 85-95°F with high humidity, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Beach activities at Topsail Hill: The state park features over 3 miles of undeveloped white sand beaches. "We stopped by here, after seeing the listing on Dyrt, without a reservation. So lucky for me they had a site available... The beach backs onto the preserve so there is no development for miles. It's a truly unique experience!" according to Robin B. at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground.
Kayaking on Santa Rosa Sound: Launch from campgrounds with water access for paddling experiences. "Short walk to beach. Full 50 amp hookup. Overlooks bay. Easily accessible," notes Beth R. about Destin West RV Resort, which offers water access on both bay and gulf sides.
Military aircraft watching: Campers often witness military aircraft from Eglin AFB during their stay. "In the flight path of Eglin AFB. The staff is excellent both friendly and helpful," mentions Michael D., who stayed during unexpected weather at Topsail Hill Preserve.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds have fishing piers extending into Santa Rosa Sound. "There is a potable water faucet and a two plug 30 amp electrical outlet at each site," reports Michael D., who enjoyed the solitude while fishing at Topsail Hill.
What campers like
Private tent sites: Tent campers appreciate secluded spots away from RV 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," reports John O. from Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground.
Year-round heated pools: Several waterfront RV sites near Eglin Air Force Base maintain heated swimming facilities. "There is a pool on this side too, which is very clean and heated, but small. If I came back during peak season I'm not sure I'd have any room to get in," notes Alana F. about Destin West RV Resort.
On-site beaches: Campers value having direct beach access from campgrounds. "Super nice place always so clean nice concrete pads quiet lots of things close by to do had teenage boys they loved it there they could either go to the pool or down to the beach," says Belinda about Emerald Beach RV Park.
Solid cell service: Most sites maintain reliable cellular connections even in tent-only areas. "Checked in Friday 01/17 and extended my stay from 2 nights to 7 nights. I'm enjoying the solitude. I'm at a tent site, no WIFI. T Mobile is 4 bars," comments Michael D. about his stay at Topsail Hill.
What you should know
Site size limitations: Many parks have tight spacing between camping spots. "The park is private and quiet (albeit, the park was only a quarter full when we were there), all the hookups, cable (70+ channels) and wifi worked well, and you are just a few blocks from the beautiful white sand beaches and emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico," reports Nancy W. about Geronimo RV Beach Resort.
Traffic congestion: Highway 98 experiences heavy traffic, particularly during tourist season. "The traffic on the road the resort sits on is awful so plan ahead. Also, it's near a huge air force base which does large ammunition testing late at night. A couple nights, our camper shook," warns Heather H. about Santa Rosa RV Resort.
Advanced reservations essential: Sites fill quickly, especially waterfront options. "Would highly recommend this adorable RV Park. Peaceful spot and we felt safe. Level gravel sites with nice FHUs! Owner Russel is very helpful & friendly," notes L&A C. about Grater RV Hideaway Cove.
Hammock camping options: Some tent areas accommodate hammock setups. "For hammock campers the tent camping spots are okay for hammock camping. I made due but I was in spot 21 and there are no trees accessible enough to hang a hammock up how you would want, BUT they had a couple 4x4s in the ground so I used one of those and a tree," advises Travis D. about his experience at Topsail Hill.
Tips for camping with families
Tram services: Families with small children benefit from transportation assistance. "Either ride your bike or take the tram the mile to the boardwalk and beach. Clean showers, friendly staff at the camp store," recommends John O. from Topsail Hill Preserve State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids enjoy spotting local wildlife near camping areas. "Hit the beach at sunset for lovely views and grazing deers. Would definitely tent camp here again!" shares Latika Y. about Navarre Beach Camping Resort.
Open play areas: Some sites feature fields for children's activities. "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," notes Latika Y. about Topsail Hill's tent camping area.
Bike-friendly environment: Many campgrounds have paved paths for cycling. "Loved our short stay here. Friendly staff, clean campground, fun little dog beach, great fishing pier and small beach," shares Andrew H. about Santa Rosa RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Concrete pads availability: Most established rv sites near Eglin Air Force Base feature level, paved surfaces. "This is a fairly small rv resort. It has 58 spots that are fully paved. The grounds are gorgeous," reports Alana F. about Destin West RV Resort.
Backup sites strategy: Maintain a list of alternative campgrounds when weather impacts your stay. "Our trip to St Andrew's state park was cancelled due to Hurricane Helene so we had to make last minute change. We found them and they were only two blocks to the beach," explains Richard F. about his experience at Geronimo RV Beach Resort.
Site-specific amenities: RV sites vary in their features and outdoor furniture. "Each spot is landscaped and gorgeous. Great amenities and very clean. We're already looking for dates for our next stay!" shares Matthew C. about Destin West RV Resort.
Check step clearance: Some sites have landscaping that may interfere with RV steps. "The problems we had with the property were the steps to our RV folded down into the landscaping no matter how close we got to the edge of the site," notes Justin S. about potential challenges at Destin West.