Fort Walton Beach sits on Florida's Emerald Coast, featuring white sand beaches formed from quartz crystals washed down from the Appalachian Mountains. The area averages 343 sunny days per year, with summer temperatures reaching into the 90s. Tent camping options are limited near the immediate Fort Walton Beach area, with most established campgrounds catering to RVs or offering cabin accommodations instead.
What to do
Beach activities at Fort Pickens: The pristine beaches at Fort Pickens Campground provide excellent swimming, fishing, and shell collecting opportunities. "The shallow waters in the bay are great for surf fishing and kayaking and there are many access points," notes one reviewer. Another camper highlights that "the beach backs onto the preserve so there is no development for miles."
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer dedicated fishing piers or waterfront access. The 300-foot pier at Destin Army Recreation Area extends into Choctawhatchee Bay, providing excellent fishing opportunities. "They have a boat ramp and marina where you can rent boats, and a 300' fishing pier," explains a reviewer.
Historical exploration: Visit Fort Pickens, a pre-Civil War brick fortress with ranger-led tours. "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," shares one camper.
What campers like
Private tent sites: While RV accommodations dominate the area, some campgrounds offer dedicated tent camping. "Our site was back off the road in the brush - very private even with a trail just on the other side of the bushes," writes a Topsail Hill Preserve State Park visitor. Another adds, "The tent sites are all separated and private, the facilities are clean, and best of all they have access to the most lovely beach!"
Year-round water recreation: The warm climate allows for extended swimming seasons. "They have 2 pools one is covered and heated with a hot tub. They have basketball courts, corn hole, a playground even pool tables," explains a Camp On The Gulf reviewer. Another mentions, "One outdoor pool was closed but one was covered in a huge inflatable tent. We had it all to ourselves for an evening dip."
Yurt camping options: For those interested in yurt camping near Fort Walton Beach, Florida, several resorts offer these accommodations. Camp On The Gulf provides yurt options that blend outdoor experiences with comfortable amenities. "This park has something for everyone... Campgulf has several cabin and glamping options to give the non-camper plenty of options," notes a visitor.
What you should know
Limited traditional tent camping: Many waterfront sites prioritize RVs. "The RV camp site is not small but not huge either more of a perfect in-between. Each site is FHU on gravel and comes with a picnic table on a slab," explains a visitor to Eglin AFB FamCamp.
Site spacing varies significantly: Some campgrounds offer spacious sites while others pack them tightly. "Parking your rig is TIGHT. Like super tight," warns a Camp On The Gulf reviewer. Another camper notes, "This is a super congested area in the popular Destin area. The compact campground can feel claustrophobic, but we spend most of our days at the beach."
Military base noise: Some campgrounds are located near military installations. "Camp Robbins is located just south of Eglins airfield so if roaring and screaming fighter jets first thing in the morning is not for you scratch this camp off your list," cautions one reviewer.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Splash RV Resort & Waterpark offers extensive water recreation. "The lazy river and waterslides were her favorite. We especially liked the armband so the kids were able to purchase food, drinks, game tokens for the arcade," shares a grandparent. Another adds, "The heated pool was a hit with the kids."
Scheduled activities: Many resorts offer organized events. "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," notes a Camp On The Gulf visitor.
Protected swimming areas: For families with young children, look for campgrounds with designated swimming areas away from boat traffic. "The bay front area with a small man-made beach area adjacent a pier out into the bay... The water in the bay is clear with a dark sandy bottom," explains a Navarre Beach Camping Resort visitor.
Tips from RVers
Reservation timing: Popular sites fill quickly during peak season. "We booked 5 months in advance for a 1 week stay," notes a Destin Army Recreation Area visitor. For yurt camping in Fort Walton Beach, reservations should be made even further in advance as these specialty accommodations are limited.
Site selection strategy: Study campground maps before booking. "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," advises a Camp On The Gulf reviewer.
Hookup considerations: Most area campgrounds offer full hookups, but amperage varies. "There is a potable water faucet and a two plug 30 amp electrical outlet at each site," explains a Topsail Hill visitor, while others note the availability of 50-amp service at different locations.
