St. Joseph Peninsula State Park and nearby camping areas offer unique recreation opportunities along Florida's Gulf Coast. Located approximately 25-45 minutes from Mexico Beach, these areas feature several campgrounds that have been rebuilt following Hurricane Michael in 2018. The white sand beaches and emerald waters of the Gulf contrast with the calmer bay waters on the peninsula's eastern shore, creating diverse ecosystems for outdoor recreation.
What to do
Beach exploration: At T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy uncrowded beaches and excellent shell collecting. "Gorgeous dunes! Shells, shells, shells!!! If you have a boat....take it!!! You can walk from the waves across to the calmer water....short distance," notes Tessa M.
Paddle sports: Multiple waterways provide options for kayakers and paddleboarders. At Tate's Hell State Forest High Bluff Primitive Campsites, you'll find secluded launch points. "There are 3 separate High Bluff Primitive campsites, one at Dry Bridge, one at Rake Creek and one at Pidcock Road. Each spot is so far away from each other that you feel completely secluded," explains Laura M.
Fishing opportunities: Both freshwater and saltwater fishing are available near Mexico Beach. Bob M. from St. Joseph Peninsula State Park says, "I spent 5 days of peace and quiet here. Nice layout with plenty of photo ops from the beach or on the bay. Great fishing opportunities."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: The natural areas around Mexico Beach host diverse wildlife. At St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, "Deer frolic in the ponds at sunset. It is by far one of the best beach camping experiences I've ever had!" shares Tessa M.
Uncrowded natural settings: Away from busier beach destinations, Mexico Beach area campgrounds offer tranquility. "If you want serenity and lots of beach to yourself this is it. It is located out on peninsula and there is no thru traffic. Day use area but so much beach you have lots of solitude," says Theresa F. about St. Joseph Peninsula.
Night sky viewing: Pine Log State Forest Sand Pond Campground offers excellent stargazing opportunities away from city lights. "Was lulled to sleep by the croaking of bull frogs while watching the moon rise from my sleeping bag. A thoroughly enjoyable stay," reports Dale W.
What you should know
Hurricane recovery status: The area continues to rebuild from major storms. At St. Andrews State Park Campground, a camper notes, "Great State Park. Under a little construction can't wait to see when completed. Beaches. Views. All hook ups. Quiet and at the end of Panama Beach away from the big tours areas."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. Angeline S. recommends, "Super nice primitive sites! Would advise to book Campsite 2 or 3 as they are more spacious and provide better river views."
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require driving on unpaved roads. Laura M. advises about Tate's Hell State Forest: "Road in was bumpy with some huge pits but easily navigable even in our 26ft class c, just watch the road and take it slow."
Tips for camping with families
Beach safety: Monitor conditions for safe swimming at Gulf beaches. At Indian Pass Campground, September H. shares, "We loved this campground! It's a bit crowded but there's plenty of opportunity to stretch your legs being that it's steps away from the beach. They are also extremely dog friendly which is a huge plus for us because our pup loves to swim."
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially in wooded areas. "The campground is located in an area with a lot of mosquitoes and raccoons that steal stuff as soon as you walk away, so bring tons of bug spray and put your food away even if you just walk to the bathroom," advises Tyler M.
Yurt camping options: While traditional yurt camping near Mexico Beach, Florida isn't widely available, St. Andrews State Park offers yurt accommodations that provide comfort for families. Matt M. explains, "St. Andrews State Park is a regular destination for our group of Dads and kids annual camping trip. These sites are perfect for our group to book two or three sites together."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For RVers seeking level sites with hookups, Pine Log State Forest offers good options. Jennifer D. reports, "This was a very quiet and peaceful campground. We stayed on a campsite right next to the pond. It made for fantastic sunsets!"
Size considerations: Some campgrounds have tight turns or site limitations. "Far yet close…that's the first thing that comes to mind. Far enough away from the hustle and bustle of the beach areas but close enough to enjoy them just the same," notes one camper about Pine Log State Forest.
Military options: Active duty and veterans have access to Raptor Ranch at Tyndall AFB, which offers affordable camping. Mark J. explains, "The campground doesn't have as much shade or as many trees as it had before the hurricane in 2018, but it is back open for business and is a great place for military and veterans to park their campers short or long term."
