Best Camping near Fort Walton Beach, FL
Camping near Fort Walton Beach, Florida
Camping near Fort Walton Beach, Florida, offers a mix of beautiful beaches, lush forests, and a variety of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent, park your RV, or try out glamping, the campgrounds in this area provide a range of options to suit your needs. From the serene shores of the Gulf of Mexico to the tranquil inland parks, there's something for everyone.
In this guide, we'll explore what makes camping near Fort Walton Beach special. We'll cover what to do, what campers like, what you should know, tips for camping with families, and tips from RVers. We'll also include quotes from real campers to give you a better idea of what to expect.
What to do
Camping near Fort Walton Beach means you're never far from exciting activities. Whether you enjoy water sports, hiking, or simply relaxing by the beach, there's plenty to keep you busy.
For water lovers, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground offers access to a private beach, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Rhonda S. mentioned, "We rented bicycles and enjoyed the paved paths and private beach over the dunes" (review).
If hiking is more your speed, Blackwater River State Park Campground has trails that are both scenic and accessible. Mark D. shared, "The site we had was superb as had plenty of elbow room and with all the trees and bushes, could not even see the camper next to us" (review).
For a mix of activities, Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park Campground offers hiking, boating, and fishing. Miranda C. said, "The trails were easy enough to take our kids on (2 and 5). There was also a park that our kids enjoyed" (review).
What campers like
Campers appreciate the variety of amenities and the friendly staff at the campgrounds near Fort Walton Beach. Many campgrounds offer clean facilities, spacious sites, and beautiful natural settings.
At Henderson Beach State Park Campground, Marsha K. noted, "It's a clean well-kept campground has bathhouses, laundry, gravel campsites, fire pits, trash cans, lots of trails, and very beautiful scenery" (review).
Camp On The Gulf is another favorite, especially for its beach access. Mike B. shared, "We had great but tight camping just 10 steps from the beautiful sandy beach. Lots of great and clean amenities" (review).
For those looking for a quieter experience, The Hideaway Retreat offers a secluded and scenic setting. Stuart K. described it as "one of the best waterfront secluded camping experiences I have ever come across" (review).
What you should know
While camping near Fort Walton Beach is generally a great experience, there are a few things to keep in mind. Some campgrounds can be pricey, and others may have limited amenities or be close to busy roads.
For example, Destin West RV Resort is known for its beautiful location but can be expensive. Justin S. mentioned, "We also felt the $181 per night was extravagant" (review).
At Navarre Beach Camping Resort, some campers found the sites to be cramped. Aimee K. said, "Sites way too small. No fire rings. In need of serious updating" (review).
Additionally, some campgrounds like Emerald Beach RV Park have tight parking spots. James R. noted, "Very tight parking spots. I was as far as I could park on the passenger side and only one inch clearance on the driver side slide" (review).
Tips for camping with families
Camping with kids can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially in the Fort Walton Beach area. Many campgrounds offer family-friendly amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.
At Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park Campground, Miranda C. shared, "The trails were easy enough to take our kids on (2 and 5). There was also a park that our kids enjoyed" (review).
Navarre Beach Camping Resort also offers activities for kids. Karla T. mentioned, "Playground area is lighted with a box of sand toys and various other toys to keep the kidos busy" (review).
For a more relaxed family experience, The Hideaway Retreat offers a peaceful setting. Stuart K. described it as "a magical nature oasis completely shaded by nurturing Magnolia and Oak trees" (review).
Tips from RVers
RVers will find plenty of options near Fort Walton Beach, with many campgrounds offering full hookups and amenities tailored to RV travelers.
At Milton-Gulf Pines KOA, Al & Lori C. shared, "Nice campground, gravel site with small pad with picnic table and fire ring. FHU, and plenty of activities and amenities for our granddaughter" (review).
Emerald Beach RV Park is another great option, with Michael B. noting, "Great place. We stayed at spot 54 and loved it. Friendly stuff, dogs have dog park with their one little beach" (review).
For those looking for a more luxurious experience, Destin West RV Resort offers a well-maintained and beautiful setting. Beth R. mentioned, "Beautiful, well maintained campground. Short walk to beach. Full 50 amp hookup. Overlooks bay" (review).
Camping near Fort Walton Beach, Florida, offers a diverse range of experiences, from beachfront relaxation to forested adventures. Whether you're traveling with family, in an RV, or looking for a quiet retreat, there's a campground that will meet your needs.