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Best Campgrounds near Mary Esther, FL

793 Reviews

Mary Esther, Florida sits at the center of a coastal camping corridor with options ranging from military-affiliated facilities to beachfront destinations. Henderson Beach State Park Campground and Camp Gulf offer tent sites, RV spaces, and cabin accommodations within minutes of the Gulf shoreline. The region includes several established campgrounds supporting various accommodation types, with The Hideaway Retreat and Emerald Beach RV Park providing full hookup sites approximately 15 miles east of downtown Mary Esther along the Navarre coastline. Mixed-use campgrounds are common, with most facilities accommodating both tent and RV camping.

Access to campgrounds remains reliable year-round as most facilities in the area operate throughout all seasons, though summer months bring significantly higher demand and rates. Most established campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly during peak tourist season from March through September. The coastal location means weather considerations including hurricane season (June through November) and occasional severe storms. Campgrounds generally offer level concrete or gravel pads with full hookups, though primitive tent camping options are more limited. Cell coverage is excellent throughout the region due to the developed coastal infrastructure. A visitor noted, "Close to Navarre and Okaloosa Island beaches, and many restaurants and shopping."

Proximity to Gulf beaches represents the primary draw for campers in this area, with several campgrounds offering either direct beach access or convenient transportation to shorelines. Military personnel benefit from specialized camping facilities, including Eglin AFB FamCamp which one camper described as having "lots of trees and large spots" plus proximity to water. Beachfront locations fill quickly during peak season, with waterfront RV sites commanding premium rates. While natural scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities exist, most campgrounds function primarily as bases for exploring nearby beaches rather than wilderness destinations. Several visitors mentioned the convenient access to essential services, with one camper highlighting that many campgrounds are "close to Walmart and Publix, with a pharmacy and liquor store, and a Citgo, just around the corner."

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Best Camping Sites Near Mary Esther, Florida (112)

    1. Henderson Beach State Park Campground

    36 Reviews
    Destin, FL
    13 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. The Hideaway Retreat

    21 Reviews
    Navarre, FL
    9 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."

    3. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground

    68 Reviews
    Santa Rosa Beach, FL
    23 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!"

    4. 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."

    5. Emerald Beach RV Park

    16 Reviews
    Navarre, FL
    11 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."

    6. Navarre Beach Camping Resort

    16 Reviews
    Navarre, FL
    11 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."

    7. Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    Niceville, FL
    15 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."

    8. Camp On The Gulf

    29 Reviews
    Miramar Beach, FL
    19 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."

    9. Santa Rosa RV Resort

    12 Reviews
    Navarre, FL
    13 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."

    10. Eglin AFB FamCamp - Camp Robbins

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

    "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"

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

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Recent Camping Photos near Mary Esther, FL

144 Photos of 112 Mary Esther Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Mary Esther, FL

793 Reviews of 112 Mary Esther Campgrounds

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 10, 2025

    Pensacola Beach RV Resort

    Perfection!

    I'd give it 10 stars if I could! The parking spots are pristine, the showers clean, the tiki bar on the sound beach was incredible, with lots of chairs & bean bags to laze around in... The pool is beautiful & super clean, with lights all around & a fountain!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2025

    Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground

    Exploration Trip

    We continue to visit the Gulf to look at where retirement may end up. Another great state park. Lots to do hiking to the dunes or lake. Checking out if the gators will let you see them. Hanging at the beach. Bike riding down 30A or around the park. Everything is close by. Great weather. Most sites are shaded. If you have satellite or Dish setup you may be limited to get signal. Also you will need to bring your own fire ring and grill as many sites do not have either. You cannot go wrong with this park.

  • m
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Pelican Palms RV Park

    Great site

    this is an RV park and is quiet and accommodating, the WiFi works well, had laundry facilities and mailbox to have your mail sent to , cannot complain

  • Bobbie S.
    Aug. 5, 2025

    Avalon Landing RV Park

    Absolutely Amazing Stay

    I have stayed many places and this is by far my favorite! We stopped over for one night on our way home from Texas. As soon as my husband backed the camper in, I asked if we could stay two nights. So glad we did! 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. They have a boat ramp, rent fishing poles & kayaks, swimming pool, club house, bathrooms, laundry room and a wonderful covered deck/outside area. The office staff were absolutely wonderful. Hope to stay here again ❤️

  • Randi P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Retroville 1960s-70 Drive In Movie/TV Themed RV Park

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5 – Quiet, Clean, and Super Responsive Owners

    We stayed at Retroville in Freeport, FL from Thursday to Sunday in early August. It’s a very small, peaceful campground—just one gravel road with a cul-de-sac at the end, where there are a few waterfront sites. The grounds were very clean, and although the waterfront area is a marshy slope (more like a slew off the river), it added to the quiet, tucked-away atmosphere.

    Sites are all gravel and full hookup, and while there’s not a ton of space between them, the campground never felt crowded or noisy. We didn’t see a bathhouse or laundry area, and the small office/store was closed while we were there, but it looked like it sold things like ice cream and small essentials.

    The owners were extremely helpful and responsive, even though they were out of town during our stay. I booked last-minute after 9PM en route, and they still responded quickly and offered help—great customer service even from afar.

    There’s not much to do at the campground itself, but we planned for that. It’s in a great location for day trips—about 30–45 minutes to beaches like Seaside, Miramar, Destin, and PCB. We swam at Vortex Springs (30 minutes away), biked trails around Seaside, and had dinner with live music at North Beach Social just across the bridge south of the campground—highly recommend that spot for food, drinks, and beachy vibes.

    The campground has a fun retro theme with gas pumps and vintage signs, perfect for photos. Wi-Fi and cell service were spotty during our stay, but we expected that based on reviews. If you’re looking for a quiet, clean basecamp with super nice owners and don’t mind driving to the action, Retroville is a solid pick.

  • Amy L.
    Jul. 23, 2025

    Mystic Springs Recreation Area

    Remote Primitive and Wild

    Pros: Covered tent sites (we tent camped) portapottys, free for up to a week, boat launch, spaced out sites (pretty private). Has picnic tables, fire pits, and grills. Cons: Sites flood, lots of gaters (if you have small pets this is sketchy), gets a little busy on the weekends with the boaters, it's reaallllly far from the next town but there's a gas station 15mins away. Get gas before you go back to camp. It's beautiful and clean. About 45mins to pcola

  • Paul M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 14, 2025

    Open Pond Campground

    Open Pond

    The campground is nicely maintained. The bath houses are not the cleanest, but not anywhere near the worst I have seen. But definitely not Buc-ee’s level. LOL But for $16 a day and an hour from Destin you can’t beat that. You can fish the pond (large) for catfish, brim, bass, and one other I don’t remember. Hiking trails are kept in great condition with the exception of a couple of spots. Blue Springs is a short hike and is crystal clear and cool to swim in. RVs can stay in C and D loops.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 26, 2025

    Emerald Beach RV Park

    Great Place

    My wife and I and my two furry friends(dogs) give Emerald RV Park a Five Star rating. We thought we had lost our little Yorkie in the park somewhere or she even left the park. We set out on a frantic search for her. I am riding my bike, and my wife is on foot yelling out her name. I go into the park office and tell them what has happened, and a member of the park staff puts out an immediate bulletin by text message to all current registered guests to look for her. I could not believe the immediate help we had from other RVers that came out to help search for the dog. Making a long story short, we found the dog in maybe 20 minutes in good health. We are so thankful for the help of the residents of the park and especially the staff at Emerald RV Park. We may add that the park is well kept and very dog friendly. It has all the facilities (in working order) needed for a long stay. The staff are friendly and especially helpful in unusual circumstances as we experienced. Thank you to the staff at Emeral RV Park.

    From Lake Nebagamon WI

Guide to Mary Esther

Camping near Mary Esther, Florida, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. 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 close to stunning beaches. For instance, at Gulf State Park Campground, campers can enjoy free parking at several beaches in the park, making it easy to soak up the sun and swim in the Gulf.
  • Biking Trails: If you love biking, check out the extensive trails at Fort Pickens Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "The biking trails were amazing, very wide, with a good amount of shade."
  • Fishing and Water Activities: Many campgrounds, like Blackwater River State Park Campground, offer great fishing spots. A camper noted, "The river has soft sandy bends, perfect for swimming in."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. At Henderson Beach State Park Campground, one visitor said, "The bathrooms are clean, and the camp site has a picnic table and a fire ring."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many campers enjoy the roomy sites at places like Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground. A review highlighted, "The campground was clean, relatively quiet, right next to the beach, with a ton of activities."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. At Camp On The Gulf, one reviewer remarked, "Kind staff, well cared for pools, activity center, bathrooms, laundry, and roads."

What you should know:

  • Busy Seasons: Many campgrounds can get crowded during peak times. One camper at Gulf State Park Campground noted, "We did make the mistake of coming here during one of the busiest weeks of July."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Big Lagoon State Park Campground, may have fewer amenities. A visitor mentioned, "There is a lack of places to throw trash, and the dumpsters are all the way back at the front of the park."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife, especially raccoons. A camper at Blackwater River State Park Campground warned, "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. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground has a pool and bike rentals, making it a hit with families. One parent said, "We love it! Little pool, dog park, beach close by, tons of biking."
  • Plan for Beach Days: Make sure to pack beach gear. At Henderson Beach State Park Campground, a visitor shared, "The beach wasn’t too busy and the water was perfect!"
  • Bring Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can save time and money. A camper at Camp On The Gulf mentioned, "The beach is the highlight of course and walking distance no matter where you’re parked in the campground."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Fort Pickens Campground noted, "Most of the campsites do not offer much privacy."
  • Utilize Full Hookups: Look for campgrounds with full hookups for convenience. At St. Andrews State Park Campground, one camper said, "Full hook ups, big rig friendly, laundry."
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A visitor at Gulf State Park Campground mentioned, "It’s great to have a large pool, but the noise from nearby campers can be distracting."

Camping near Mary Esther, Florida, offers a variety of experiences, from beach fun to peaceful nature retreats. Whether you're with family or enjoying a solo trip, there's something for everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are backyard fire pits allowed in Mary Esther?

Fire pit regulations in Mary Esther generally permit backyard fire pits with certain restrictions. They should be contained in proper fire rings or designated pits, positioned away from structures and overhanging vegetation. At Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park Campground, fire safety protocols demonstrate the standard practices in the region, including keeping fires attended and fully extinguishing before leaving. For the most current regulations, check with the Mary Esther Fire Department, as rules may change during dry seasons or high fire danger periods when temporary bans might be implemented.

What are the pool gate requirements in Mary Esther?

Pool gate requirements in Mary Esther follow Florida state regulations, requiring self-closing and self-latching gates at least 48 inches high surrounding residential pools. Gates must open outward away from the pool and have latches placed on the pool side, out of reach of small children. These safety measures are similar to those observed at Mid Bay Shores Maxwell recreation facilities and other campgrounds in the area with pool amenities. Additionally, pool alarms may be required for doors and windows with direct pool access. Always verify current requirements with the Mary Esther building department before installation.

What camping is available near Mary Esther, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, Mary Esther, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 112 campgrounds and RV parks near Mary Esther, FL and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Mary Esther, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Mary Esther, FL is Henderson Beach State Park Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 36 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Mary Esther, FL?

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

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