Best Campgrounds near Gonzalez, FL

The Florida Panhandle region surrounding Gonzalez provides diverse camping experiences within a short drive of the city. Notable options include Fort Pickens Campground in Gulf Islands National Seashore and Big Lagoon State Park Campground, both offering tent, RV, and cabin accommodations. Blackwater River State Forest and State Park feature primitive camping areas alongside developed sites with full hookups. Most campgrounds in the area maintain year-round operations, with facilities ranging from basic tent pads to RV sites with water, electric, and sewer connections. The proximity to both Gulf beaches and inland waterways creates varied camping environments within a 30-mile radius.

Summer heat and humidity significantly impact camping comfort in this region, with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through September. Many campgrounds feature shaded sites to mitigate the heat, though waterfront locations may have less tree cover. Hurricane season (June-November) can affect camping plans, with some facilities closing temporarily for storm preparation or recovery. Winter brings milder temperatures ideal for camping, though occasional cold fronts can drop overnight temperatures into the 30s. Reservations are strongly recommended for weekend stays year-round and are essential during spring break and summer months. As one camper noted, "Despite damage left from hurricane Sally, the trails around the campground are gorgeous and covered in white sand. There is one main dump station and the sites have electric and water."

Waterfront access represents a major draw for campers in the Gonzalez area, with both Gulf beaches and freshwater options available. Fort Pickens receives consistently high ratings for its beach proximity, with one visitor describing it as "clean, quiet and steps from the beach. Great hot showers that are cleaned daily." Blackwater River State Park and Forest offer popular paddling opportunities, with several campgrounds providing direct river access for kayaking and canoeing. Wildlife viewing opportunities include alligators, various bird species, and occasionally bears in more remote areas. Campers frequently mention the contrast between the pristine white-sand beaches along the Gulf and the more rustic, forested settings of inland campgrounds. Cell service varies significantly, with better coverage near developed areas and limited or no service in more remote forest camping areas.

Best Camping Sites Near Gonzalez, Florida (159)

    1. Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore

    100 Reviews
    Gulf Breeze, FL
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (850) 934-2622

    $20 - $40 / night

    "This might be my favorite place to camp in all of florida. The campgrounds are clean , quiet and steps from the beach. Great hot showers that are cleaned daily. A visit to the fort is a must."

    "Fort Pickins is a large National Park campground on Gulf Islands National Seashore in Florida. There are 4 camping loops. Loop D is tents only."

    2. Big Lagoon State Park Campground

    46 Reviews
    Perdido Key, FL
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (850) 492-1595

    $20 / night

    "Located only a short 10 minute drive from Pensacola, Florida this is a great state park!"

    "Bathhouses clean and close to most campsites. Plenty of walking trails. Love the Bird tower and kayak launch. Sandbar near launch to hangout when paddling."

    3. Pensacola RV Park

    10 Reviews
    Gonzalez, FL
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (850) 944-1734

    "Close to a lot of food. Close to a lot of things to do. One of the things I like is that you have everything here. The staff is very friendly and very helpful."

    "Highly recommendable- a very clean, friendly and well run family RV park - close to major highways, restaurants, groceries and other amenities. Popular with pet owners."

    4. Avalon Landing RV Park

    13 Reviews
    Bagdad, FL
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (850) 995-5898

    "Pelicans always roosting near bridge were fun to watch. Owners are delightful. Park along busy highway, so some traffic noise, but not bad."

    "Breathtaking views and we were able to fish behind our camper. You're so close to all the "action" without hearing or having to be part of it."

    5. Gulf Shores-Pensacola West KOA

    20 Reviews
    Lillian, AL
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (251) 961-1717

    "We loved walking to the waterfront. My son enjoyed the basketball court. My kids loved the pool. It was quiet at night."

    "Guy next to us threatened to beat his dog with a pipe at like 2am. A truck, big diesel started at 5 and ran for 30 minutes. People walking all hours of the night. Dogs barking continuously."

    6. Gulf State Park Campground

    102 Reviews
    Orange Beach, AL
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (251) 948-7275

    "Spacious sites, some with foliage, some with Lake or canal views. Grills but no fire pits. Right now there's a shortage of usable bath houses because of hurricane damage repairs in progress."

    "Gulf State Park is the one by which all other parks in the region (NW Florida/Alabama) are to be compared.  Everything you want: Hiking, BIKING, access to the beach, fishing, etc. "

    7. Blue Angel Park

    11 Reviews
    Lillian, AL
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (850) 390-6133

    $7 - $75 / night

    "There is a walking trail and a flat place to ride a bike. Hope to return soon."

    "We did some paddle-boarding and walked trails. There is so much more we want to do, like play volleyball, mini golf, go kayaking, and ride bikes. It was quiet at quiet time, no problems."

    8. Five Flags RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Gonzalez, FL
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (844) 453-5247

    9. Military Park Pensacola Naval Air Station Oak Grove Park and Cottages

    11 Reviews
    Perdido Key, FL
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (850) 452-2535

    $24 - $30 / night

    "I love to run and the path through the campground leads to the sea wall. The campground is walking distance to the lighthouse and a short drive to the museum on base."

    "We checked in at the little campground(CG) office at the entrance then backed in to site 25 with FHUs. We couldn’t find the cable connection so checked with the office."

    10. Milton-Gulf Pines KOA

    16 Reviews
    Milton, FL
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (850) 623-0808

    "We were driving from California to Tampa Florida so we just used it as a stopping place but the lots are big and it was easy to get in and out of."

    "We enjoyed our stay here and will be back for future Florida stays. Great staff. Pool was nice! Great little putt putt area for kids."

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Recent Reviews near Gonzalez, FL

834 Reviews of 159 Gonzalez Campgrounds


  • Aaron D.
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Blakeley State Park Campground

    Hidden Spot Close to Mobile

    We stayed at spot RV Spot 2. It was a pull through spot and easy to get into. The spot was somewhat flat but we had to maneuver to get even and then still needed leveling blocks. It was very quiet at night with barely any lights. The cell service was pretty good since it close to town. We didn't stay for long, but the historic park was nice to check out and the sunset at the water was beautiful. Overall the campground was great, good amenities, very quiet, lots to see, and close to Mobile and Daphne.

  • Aaron D.
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore

    Perfect Beach Getaway

    We stayed at spot E40 in Loop E. Somewhat easy to back into. The spot was relatively flat and only needed slight leveling side to side. Bathrooms weren't too far away, just a short walk. It was very quiet at night with barely any lights. The cell service wasn't really great in our specific spot, the closer you got to Fort Pickens, the better it was, as was going back towards Pensacola Beach. Having easy access to all the beach spots was very nice. Langdon beach was a great place with good restrooms and was very quiet when we went. Fort Pickens itself was a great visit and a must see. Overall the campground was great, good amenities, very quiet, access to the beach, ton of other activities in Pensacola Beachas well as Gulf Breeze.

  • Lisa M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore

    Nice beaches but campground pretty packed

    First off, we stayed in space number E 24 and I want to caution that there is a tree over hanging the site that if you have more than 11 feet height in your RV you need to hug the driver side of the site or you’ll hit the tree. Site was nice and level. Short quarter mile hike over to the beach. Hike out to Fort Pickens was a nice trail, and the fort itself was pretty cool. We did not visit the bathrooms/showers so can’t comment on those. I would say 80 to 90% of the campsites are probably in the sun. Very few actually have trees with shade. It does cost an extra $25 or America the beautiful pass to get into the Fort Pickens national Park. We did visit the aviation museum over on the airbase which was fascinating and it was free.

  • Lisa M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 25, 2025

    Blackwater River State Park Campground

    Beautiful area right next to the river

    The main reason I did not get this campground five stars, which really isn’t their fault, but there’s quite a bit of air traffic noise with helicopters and planes flying overhead. I think there is an airport nearby. The campground itself is very well-maintained with nice level pads and full hook ups. Caution, if you’re coming from the east on 90 Google maps will have you turn at Cooper Lane. Continue on 90 until you get to Deaton Bridge Road. The other way will take you meandering through about 10 miles of small back roads and Deaton Bridge Road is only about 4 miles from the campground. Showers were nice and great hiking trails in the area.

  • M
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Fort Walton Beach RV Park

    great stay!

    such a great spot! The park is clean (i think new), well taken care of, and close to everything .... beaches, restaurants, and stores (but still at a great rate). The sites were easy to pull into (thank goodness, sometimes that is a challenge) and had everything we needed. The staff was friendly and hospitable. It’s a nice, quiet place to relax... park is safe feeling. Good stay overall, would come back

  • Jordan W.
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Fort Walton Beach RV Park

    Clean Park, Good Size

    This park was perfect for us, and in a great location. We were able to save money but still enjoy the awesome costal town. There is great stufff all around, and we felt very safe in the park.

    It was clean, the grass looked wonderful, the pad were wide, the picnic pads were great and we had so much fun!

  • B
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Fort Walton Beach RV Park

    Brand New RV Park!

    This RV Park was beautiful, beand new, well maintained and in a great location. We enjoyed our stay here and plan to be back next year. The community center had laundry and the wifi was fast. The picnic table was sturdy and I liked the pavered sites, it felt very clean and elevated!

  • E
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Alabama Coast Campground

    Very nice spot!

    Extremely scenic and friendly staff. Great playground, 2 dog parks. Would stay again!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Island Retreat RV Park

    Change of Scenery

    Camping down in Florida earlier in week decided to go to Gulf Shores for a change of scenery. Nice RV park. Staff are great. Most sites are full sun. Great central location to the beach (bike ride or drive). Bike and walking path. It’s off the main tourist area so it’s nice and quiet. MO’s Landing is right across the street so you can put a boat in or you paddleboard/kayak and tool around Little Lagoon. The only reason for not a 5 star is a lot of the sites do not have the patio area right off the center of the trailer where you normally would hang out. Ours had 3 ft of concrete then drop off to sandy ground. Still a really nice RV park.


Guide to Gonzalez

Camping spots near Gonzalez, Florida are primarily situated within Florida's coastal plains, with elevations rarely exceeding 100 feet above sea level. The region's sandy soil drains quickly after rainfall, making most campsites usable even following typical afternoon thunderstorms. Campers often note the contrast between inland campgrounds with their dense pine forests and coastal options featuring more open, sandy terrain with sea oats and palmetto vegetation.

What to do

Kayaking on Blackwater River: Multiple campsites provide direct access to this clear, sandy-bottomed river with gentle current. One visitor at Gulf Shores-Pensacola West KOA mentioned, "The dog park consists of two fenced in areas which was nice because my dog gets bored quickly of the same area, so I alternated between the two."

Military aviation history: The National Naval Aviation Museum near Oak Grove Military Park offers free admission and displays over 150 restored aircraft. A camper noted, "We were able to fish and enjoy nearby Johnson Beach and had a wonderful time."

Fishing from campground docks: Many campsites offer fishing opportunities without leaving the grounds. At Avalon Landing RV Park, "People were fishing right off the bridge that separates the two parts of the campground."

What campers like

White sand beaches within driving distance: Most campgrounds are 20-30 minutes from Gulf beaches. At Gulf State Park Campground, "Pretty busy with over 400+ sites but an older crowd. Very relaxing and well kept."

On-site water access: Many campers appreciate waterfront options without beach crowds. As one Blue Angel Park visitor shared, "We had a good time playing along the water..." while another mentioned it has "tent platforms, waterfront view, grill, and a little tree house."

Quiet natural settings: Despite proximity to urban areas, many campgrounds maintain natural landscapes. A visitor to Big Lagoon State Park Campground noted, "Big Lagoon is my go-to quick getaway camping spot... There are sandy trails leading through the costal scrub vegetation and lots of animals to see and hear."

What you should know

Frequent military aircraft noise: Several campgrounds near Pensacola NAS experience jet noise during Blue Angels practice and regular operations. One camper mentioned, "First day here, the Blue Angels flew in and we are hoping to watch them practice this week."

Seasonal ant activity: Fire ants can be problematic, especially from April through October. A camper warned, "Beware of the ants!!!!!! The whole campground is infested with stinging ants. There are ant piles all over the campsites."

Variable cell service: Coverage can change dramatically within short distances. "I would recommend getting in early to pick your spot" advised one camper, while another noted, "Our t-mobile internet wasn't the best but i would stay here again."

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: For families with young children, seek campgrounds with play equipment. At Gulf Pines KOA, "Nice campground, gravel site with small pad with picnic table and fire ring. FHU, and plenty of activities and amenities for our granddaughter. Playground, mini golf, large outdoor Connect Four game."

Educational opportunities: Several sites offer ranger-led programs. "The park has a nice museum that describes the history of the fort and impacts of hurricanes (especially Ivan which destroyed the area). Ranger-led tours occur during the year and are very fun and informative."

Water safety considerations: The region has both calm bay waters and stronger Gulf currents. "The beach at the campground is pet friendly which is rare for the area," noted an Oak Grove visitor, while another camper mentioned, "The beach is the Intercoastal waterway so there is boat traffic and noise, but it's brackish water and calm compared to the gulf."

Tips from RVers

Concrete pad availability: Sites with concrete pads are limited and in demand. "The sites are a combination of dirt and grass. Ours is level enough no problems there," noted one RVer.

Reservation lead times: Peak season requires bookings 3-6 months ahead for popular parks. "I sent reservation request for a future stay in the evening and had a phone call from Wendy the next morning. Very impressed with her answers to my questions and the quick reply for a reservation request."

Dump station locations: Not all sites offer full hookups. "The sites have paved driveways and grassy/sandy patios with 50/30/20 amp electric and water (but no sewer)," one camper reported, while another mentioned "They have FHU, WiFi, and laundry."

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Gonzalez, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, Gonzalez, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 159 campgrounds and RV parks near Gonzalez, FL and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Gonzalez, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Gonzalez, FL is Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore with a 4.6-star rating from 100 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Gonzalez, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Gonzalez, FL.