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Best Campgrounds near Fort Walton Beach, FL

791 Reviews

Fort Walton Beach camping areas include several state parks and private campgrounds along the Emerald Coast of Florida's panhandle. Henderson Beach State Park Campground in nearby Destin provides sites for tents, RVs, and cabins with beach access to sugar-white sand beaches. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground, located in Santa Rosa Beach approximately 15 miles east, offers camping options including tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and glamping accommodations. Destin West RV Resort sits directly in Fort Walton Beach with waterfront access and full hookup sites for RVs and tent campers.

Reservations are essential for most developed campgrounds in the region, with Florida state parks allowing bookings up to 11 months in advance. Many campers note these reservations fill quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons from spring through fall. Summer brings hot, humid conditions with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, while winter offers milder temperatures in the 60-70°F range. Hurricane season officially runs June through November, potentially affecting camping plans. Most state park campgrounds provide water and electric hookups, with some offering full sewer connections. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area except in more remote forest locations. A camper observed, "You can reserve campsites in Florida state parks 11 months in advance, but I don't plan that far ahead! We lucked out and snagged a coveted site on the lake due to a last-minute cancellation."

The region's mixed-use campgrounds receive consistently high ratings for their proximity to beaches and water activities. Campers frequently mention the pristine white sand beaches and emerald waters as primary attractions. Several campgrounds provide direct access to water recreation, including swimming, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Blackwater River State Forest, located north of Fort Walton Beach, offers more primitive camping experiences with hiking trails and river activities. One visitor noted, "Blackwater River State Park is a hidden gem. You don't need the beach when you've got the pristine white sands of the shores of Blackwater river. The river and the surrounds are super quiet, peaceful and beautiful." Military personnel have additional options at Eglin AFB FamCamp, which provides discounted camping for service members in a secure environment with convenient access to base facilities.

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Best Camping Sites Near Fort Walton Beach, Florida (113)

    1. Henderson Beach State Park Campground

    36 Reviews
    Destin, FL
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (850) 837-7550

    $30 / night

    "Pad 13 is a roomy site surrounded by lush foliage and trees. Included on my site was a nice picnic table, fire pit and clothes line."

    "It was nice to have such close access to groceries, coffee, Target, etc but then leave it all behind when driving through the park entrance gate."

    2. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground

    66 Reviews
    Santa Rosa Beach, FL
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (850) 267-8330

    $24 - $130 / night

    "My wife and I are frequent campers in NW Florida and Alabama.  Topsail is certainly one of our favorites.  Excellent access to the beach, hiking, biking (many miles), lakes, great campground. "

    "Beautiful beach, trees between paved spots, bike path, cute coffee shop on site, bike rentals, & a great location!"

    3. The Hideaway Retreat

    21 Reviews
    Navarre, FL
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (850) 939-2717

    $89 / night

    "From the moment you enter The Hideaway – and trust me, you have to be looking for this place located due south of Highway 98 Or Navarre Parkway – you’ll be whisked away to a magical nature oasis completely"

    "We have a 44 ft toy hauler and stayed in a watefront site just steps away from a very small private beach. If you want a bi ocean beach this isn't it."

    4. Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    Niceville, FL
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (850) 833-9144

    $16 / night

    "Conveniently close to grocery stores. If you want to stay in Florida at affordable prices and have access to the best beaches in the US. This is the place to stay."

    "Close to everything and I now want to move to Niceville, Florida. Very quiet in the campground day and night."

    5. Destin West RV Resort

    11 Reviews
    Shalimar, FL
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (850) 200-4533

    "Fantastic sites, great amenities, and access to resort and beachfront included.

    Some of the sites are real close to the busy highway, and there's an AFB nearby"

    "Short walk to beach. Full 50 amp hookup. Overlooks bay. Easily accessible. Picnic table with umbrella. Lot covered by pavers.

    Cons: No Wifi for week of stay."

    6. Camp On The Gulf

    29 Reviews
    Miramar Beach, FL
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (850) 837-6334

    "Great proximity to the beach. Depending on your site several are just steps from the beach (actually on the beach if you don’t need sewer)."

    "We are Connecticut residents, we took a winter trip to Destin Florida. Camp gulf was an amazing experience for the whole family."

    7. Emerald Beach RV Park

    16 Reviews
    Navarre, FL
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (850) 939-3431

    "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 we loved it so much we"

    "This campground is a perfect place to enjoy the beauty of what is Navarre and surrounding communities."

    8. Navarre Beach Camping Resort

    16 Reviews
    Navarre, FL
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (850) 939-2188

    "The campground is technically not in a traditional beach such as Miramar or Clearwater; rather, it’s a small bay front area with a small man-made beach area adjacent a pier out into the bay."

    "It is also a mile away from the public beach across the Santa rosa sound. Dont forget to stop at Tommy's Sno Balls we went there every day and tried a different flavor snow cone every time."

    9. Eglin AFB FamCamp - Camp Robbins

    6 Reviews
    Eglin Air Force Base, FL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (850) 883-1243

    "Camp Robbins is located on Eglin AFB just outside the Fort Walton Beach area."

    "It’s also a short walk to the water. Close to several towns including Ft Walton Beach. We are currently at the Family camp and will bounce between the two campgrounds on base"

    10. Santa Rosa RV Resort

    12 Reviews
    Navarre, FL
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (850) 936-4791

    $62 - $126 / night

    "Showers/ bathroom, pool area, fenced pet area, gas fire pit lit at night to meet and greet if you want, access to the small beach and water. Shops near by for anything you want or need."

    "This campground is super clean and conveniently located. We loved the waterfront site……however you have to book well in advance. We were close to several great restaurants and shops."

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Recent Camping Photos near Fort Walton Beach, FL

144 Photos of 113 Fort Walton Beach Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Fort Walton Beach, FL

791 Reviews of 113 Fort Walton Beach Campgrounds

Guide to Fort Walton Beach

Camping near Fort Walton Beach, FL, offers a mix of beautiful scenery, fun activities, and a chance to unwind in nature. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Beach Access: Many campgrounds are just a short walk from the beach. For example, at Henderson Beach State Park Campground, visitors enjoy easy access to a beautiful beach with clean facilities. One reviewer mentioned, "The campground is within walking distance to the beach with a beautiful walkway full of trees."
  • Fishing and Water Activities: Campgrounds like Blackwater River State Park Campground offer great fishing spots. A camper shared, "The river has soft sandy bends, perfect for swimming in."
  • Hiking and Biking: Trails are abundant in the area. At Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park Campground, families can enjoy easy trails. One visitor noted, "The trails were easy enough to take our kids on (2 and 5)."

What campers like:

What you should know:

  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A visitor at Grayton Beach State Park Campground advised, "Make reservations early, they book up quick!"
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have markets or stores nearby. For instance, Magnolia Beach Campground lacks a market, so plan accordingly.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. A camper at Blackwater River State Park Campground shared, "I had a problem with raccoons every single night as soon as it got dark."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. Henderson Beach State Park Campground has trails and a beach that kids love. One parent said, "My daughter was able to ride her bike all over the park on their well-paved roads."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can save trips to the store. A reviewer at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground mentioned, "I do wish the store on site had a larger selection."
  • Plan for Quiet Time: Some campgrounds can get busy. A visitor at Fort Pickens Campground noted, "Can get pretty packed during the busy season though."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Camp On The Gulf mentioned, "Sites are close together but man, people squeeze in!!"
  • Look for Full Hookups: Many RVers prefer sites with full hookups. At Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park Campground, a visitor said, "The sites are private and spacious."
  • Be Prepared for Weather: Florida can be unpredictable. A camper at Big Lagoon State Park Campground shared, "The majority of the park is reopened but the following areas remain closed due to hurricane damages."

Camping around Fort Walton Beach, FL, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, you're sure to have a memorable experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find tent camping in Fort Walton Beach?

For tent camping near Fort Walton Beach, consider Blackwater River State Park Campground which offers 30 full hookup sites split between Magnolia Circle and Titi Circle. The sites have small gravel pieces that are comfortable for tents. For a more primitive experience, Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping is an excellent option located on the Florida-Alabama state line. This is true primitive camping, so bring everything you need. The forest connects to Alabama's Conecuh National Forest, providing extensive hiking opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

What RV parks are available in Fort Walton Beach?

River's Edge RV Campground provides RV accommodations in the Fort Walton Beach area, though be aware that some sites may experience drainage issues during heavy rain. Eglin AFB FamCamp - Camp Robbins is located on Eglin Air Force Base just outside Fort Walton Beach and accommodates big rigs with easy navigation from the main gate. For those willing to drive a short distance, Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park Campground offers a safe, gated RV camping experience with clean facilities and convenient access to grocery stores while still providing an affordable Florida camping option.

Are there any campgrounds near Fort Walton Beach with beach access?

Yes, several campgrounds near Fort Walton Beach offer excellent beach access. Camp On The Gulf provides premier beach proximity with some sites directly on the beach (non-sewer sites) and others just steps away. The location features crystal blue water and sugar-white sand beaches. Henderson Beach State Park Campground is another excellent option with direct access to gorgeous beaches. For a more secluded experience, Grayton Beach State Park offers beautiful, fairly private beaches that are easily accessible from the campground and features additional recreational opportunities including biking trails.

Are there options for long-term RV parking in Fort Walton Beach?

Yes, there are options for long-term RV parking near Fort Walton Beach. Mid Bay Shores Maxwell, a military resort formerly called Lake Pippin, offers longer stays on the beautiful white sandy shores of Choctawatchee Bay. The gated entrance is located just before the Choctawatchee Mid-Bay Bridge. Emerald Beach RV Park near Navarre is another option that accommodates longer stays with full hookups and is big-rig friendly. Some campers report staying at Camp On The Gulf for extended winter periods, making it another potential option for snowbirds seeking longer-term arrangements in the area.

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