Inlet Beach camping options extend from the Gulf Coast to inland forest settings, with campgrounds located within 25 miles of the beach area. The region experiences a humid subtropical climate with average summer highs of 90°F and winter lows around 50°F. Most glamping facilities remain open year-round, though spring and fall offer milder temperatures with fewer thunderstorms than summer months.
What to do
Kayaking and paddleboarding: At St. Andrews State Park Campground, paddling opportunities abound on Grand Lagoon. "Park is under construction with improvements. Trails, paddling access, shelters, concession, food available," notes James M. The park provides access to both calm bay waters and Gulf beaches.
Beach exploration: Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground offers extensive beach access with unique coastal dune lakes. "The tent sites are all separated and private, the facilities are clean, and best of all they have access to the most lovely beach! The beach backs onto the preserve so there is no development for miles," shares Robin B., highlighting the park's unspoiled shoreline.
Fishing from piers: Multiple fishing opportunities exist at Destin Army Recreation Area where visitors can fish directly from the docks. As Kelly T. describes, there are "beautifully manicured grounds. Relaxing sunsets right on the bay." The recreation area provides fishing access along its 300-foot pier.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Sand Pond Campground, campers appreciate the spacious layout. "Very quiet and spaces are not right on top of each other will stay again," notes Pam G. The campground maintains natural spacing between sites, unlike many commercial resorts.
Clean shower facilities: Consistently mentioned in reviews are the well-maintained bathroom facilities. A camper at Twin Lakes Camp Resort remarks, "They have, likely, the nicest shower rooms you'll encounter on the rv trail." This sentiment is repeated across multiple reviews, with another noting "bathrooms/showers are gorgeous."
Wildlife viewing: Campers enjoy observing local wildlife, particularly at T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park where Richard R. states, "This place is great! A beach within a short walk, palm trees, clean bathrooms, wildlife, sunsets." Deer sightings are common in several area campgrounds.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most glamping sites near Inlet Beach require advance planning. At Camp On The Gulf, N P. notes that "we booked 5 months in advance for a 1 week stay," indicating the popularity of coastal camping options.
Site spacing considerations: Several campgrounds, particularly commercial RV parks, have limited space between sites. "Parking your rig is TIGHT. Like super tight," warns Shannon J. about Camp On The Gulf. Similar comments appear for other resort-style properties.
Hurricane recovery: Several parks continue rebuilding from past hurricanes. "Florida State Parks did a great job redoing this campground after Hurricane Michael in 2018. Brand new facilities, excellent camping pads, and good beach access," reports Colin R. about T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park.
Military-only facilities: Destin Army Recreation Area offers camping exclusively for "Active Duty/Reserve military, retirees, and their guests," explains Jason B. Civilians should verify access restrictions before planning visits.
Tips for camping with families
Splash pads and pools: Emerald Coast RV Beach Resort offers family-friendly water features. "Loved the amentities; two heated pools, clean nice playgrounds for the kids, nice laundry area, great layout to take walks," mentions Corina J., highlighting amenities beyond beach access.
Field spaces for play: Some campgrounds include open areas for children. At Topsail Hill, one camper describes a site "adjacent to an open field area, which would be great for kiddos who want room to spread out and play games."
Transportation options: Beach access often requires transportation beyond walking. A Topsail Hill camper advises, "Either ride your bike or take the tram the mile to the boardwalk and beach."
Hammock camping potential: For families with older kids who enjoy alternative sleeping arrangements, Travis D. at Topsail Hill shares, "For hammock campers the tent camping spots are okay for hammock camping. I made due but I was in spot 21 and 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."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup specifics: Most glamping sites provide electricity, but amperage varies. Michael D. at Topsail Hill specifically notes, "There is a potable water faucet and a two plug 30 amp electrical outlet at each site."
Site selection strategy: At St. Andrews State Park, an RVer advises, "The sites are all VERY different. Some are tiny, some are huge. Some have waterfront and many don't... If you want a good spot once they reopen, definitely book early and pay attention to the measurements on the website."
Cell service information: Connectivity varies by location and carrier. At Topsail Hill, Michael D. reports, "I'm at a tent site, no WIFI. T Mobile is 4 bars," providing practical information for remote workers or those needing to stay connected.
Weather considerations: Winter visitors should prepare for occasional cold spells. "I was here for the snow fall. The electric hook up was a saving grace," shares Michael D., highlighting the importance of adequate heating options during winter months.
