Top Horse Camping near Mary Esther, FL

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!