Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground features tent camping sites separated from RV areas, providing a more private outdoor experience. Located in Santa Rosa Beach approximately 30 minutes from Freeport, the park offers primitive camping options with natural buffers between sites. For visitors seeking luxury accommodations in natural settings, glamping in Freeport, Florida area provides options ranging from tent sites with electrical hookups to full-service cabins and yurts with modern amenities.
What to do
Hammock camping opportunities: At Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground, dedicated tent camping areas accommodate hammock setups. According to Travis D., "For hammock campers, the tent camping spots are okay for hammock camping... 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."
Paddling on coastal dune lakes: Pine Log State Forest's Sand Pond Campground provides access to rare coastal ecosystems. A reviewer noted, "This camp resort is set on a lake with paved pads, full hookups, an activities center, swimming pool, laundry, excellent bathroom amenities. Lake allows fishing and is pet friendly."
Scuba diving experiences: Vortex Spring offers unique diving opportunities not mentioned in typical beach vacation plans. As Rusty R. explains, "I've been here a couple of times for diving and hanging out with friends this place was great. They have rooms available, cabins available, RV spots, and areas to set up a tent. There are many things to do on property."
Wildlife viewing: The natural areas around Freeport campgrounds host diverse wildlife. Michael D. shared his experience: "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."
What campers like
Private tent sites: Sand Pond Campground — Pine Log State Forest offers secluded camping spots away from RV areas. One camper shared, "There are only three primitive camping sites out here and they are very secluded. In site 3 we had a great view of the river and easy access to the hiking trails! If you like primitive camping, this place is the way to go."
Beach proximity without crowds: St. Andrews State Park Campground provides beach access without the tourist congestion. A visitor mentioned, "We ended up here on an unplanned night of camping but were very pleased with the park and the campground. The campground was well maintained and not very loud and didn't feel overly busy."
Clean facilities: Twin Lakes Camp Resort maintains high standards for their amenities. A reviewer wrote, "This is a RV park that is done right! We actually had a three month extended stay here while we wintered in North Florida and this place is a gem. The staff was super, the park always clean and the other RVers were quiet and respectful."
Lake views: Many campgrounds offer waterfront sites with sunset views. James M. described Topsail Hill Preserve: "Keep in mind, this is a Preserve. Good trails, coastal dunes with lakes, fishing, paddling, beach, cabins, and tent camping including Glamping!"
What you should know
Reservations required early: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. At St. Andrews State Park Campground, one visitor advised, "Just be sure to book the campsite well in advance, this place is super popular and fills up very quickly."
Site variations: Camp On The Gulf has significant differences between campsites. According to one camper, "The sites are all VERY different. Some are tiny, some are huge. Some have waterfront and many don't. We booked late and got a very small (although not the smallest) site. If you want a good spot once they reopen, definitely book early and pay attention to the measurements on the website."
Military access requirements: Some facilities like Eglin AFB FamCamp have restricted access. As Michelle R. explains, "Clean bathrooms with decent showers. $1.50 for each laundry machine. Dirt/paved roads, your gear and rig will get muddy or sandy. Great staff, close to commissary and exchange. Department of defense ID is required for entry!"
Weather considerations: Florida's coastal weather affects camping comfort. John O. from Topsail Hill Preserve shared, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Bring bikes for exploring: St. Andrews State Park Campground has extensive trails perfect for cycling. One camper recommended, "We didn't get to hike as it was already pretty late in the year (quite hot). Hit the beach at sunset for lovely views and grazing deers. Would definitely tent camp here again!"
Book sites near open spaces: Some campgrounds have play areas adjacent to certain sites. A visitor to Topsail Hill Preserve noted, "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."
Plan for jellyfish: Beach swimming may require caution during certain periods. A Camp On The Gulf visitor warned, "The beach was beautiful. We did see a lot of jellyfish in the water so be aware of that. We even caught one in a fishing net."
Consider glamping options: For families new to overnight outdoor stays, upscale glamping near Freeport provides comfort with nature. As Doug and Terri C. described Camp On The Gulf, "This park has something for everyone. Up top away from the beach the level sites have plenty of shade. Beachfront sites are tight but you have the ocean at your doorstep. Campgulf has several cabin and glamping options to give the non-camper plenty of options."
Tips from RVers
Tight navigation: Emerald Coast RV Beach Resort requires careful maneuvering. A visitor mentioned, "Parking your rig is TIGHT. Like super tight. 2 nice pools and all other amenities like Wi-Fi, laundry, sewer, etc. Easy access to local shopping and dining."
Electric hookup details: Many sites offer multiple power options. Michael D. noted at Topsail Hill, "There is a potable water faucet and a two plug 30 amp electrical outlet at each site."
Site selection strategy: At Camp On The Gulf, location within the campground significantly affects experience. One RVer advised, "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. They were very busy when we arrived and we had to pause our back in twice to left the traffic flow."
Military discounts available: The Destin Army Recreation Area offers affordable options for eligible campers. Jamie S. reported, "This is for military, retirees DoD eligible employees and families. We booked 5 months in advance for a 1 week stay... At $35/night in Destin its well worth it."
