Tent camping options near Miramar Beach extend beyond the developed RV parks along Florida's Emerald Coast. The region sits at sea level with coastal dunes rising to 25-30 feet in protected areas. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with high humidity, while winter temperatures average 45-65°F with occasional dips below freezing.
What to do
Beach activities at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park: The park offers 3.2 miles of undeveloped white sand beaches accessible via a 0.75-mile tram ride or walking path from the campground. "Keep in mind, this is a Preserve. Good trails, coastal dunes with lakes, fishing, paddling, beach, cabins, and tent camping including Glamping!" notes reviewer James M. about Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground.
Paddle sports on coastal lakes: The freshwater coastal dune lakes at Topsail Hill provide calm waters for paddling, contrasting with Gulf conditions. "We didn't get to hike as it was already pretty late in the year (quite hot). Hit the beach at sunset for lovely views and grazing deers," shares Latika Y. after visiting Topsail Hill.
Fishing from private piers: Several campgrounds maintain fishing piers extending into protected waters. At Emerald Beach RV Park, one camper notes, "Park located on small white sand beach. Site 50 is level with full hookups," highlighting the waterfront access for anglers without boats.
What campers like
Private beach access: Many campers value the small, less crowded beaches at campgrounds compared to public beaches. "This 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," explains Jon L. about Navarre Beach Camping Resort.
Separation between tent and RV camping areas: Tent campers appreciate designated areas away from RVs. "We were at one of the few 'tent' campsites in the park. Our site was back off the road in the brush - very private even with a trail just on the other side of the bushes," reports John O. at Topsail Hill.
Evening wildlife viewing: Sunset beach walks often include wildlife sightings not possible during busier daytime hours. "Hit the beach at sunset for lovely views and grazing deers," recommends one Topsail Hill visitor, highlighting the natural experience available despite the developed surrounding area.
What you should know
Seasonal temperature extremes: While primarily known for hot summers, winter camping requires preparation. "I was here for the snow fall. The electric hook up was a saving grace. Now this is in the flight path of Eglin AFB," reports Michael D. about a winter visit to Topsail Hill, noting both weather challenges and noise considerations.
Ant problems: Several campgrounds have recurring ant issues that require prevention measures. "The campground is well-maintained except for the ant mounds around all the sites," warns a reviewer at Navarre Beach Camping Resort, while another visitor to 30A Luxury RV Resort reported, "RV was invaded by ants" despite giving the facility a positive overall rating.
Limited tent camping availability: True tent camping options are scarce in the immediate Miramar Beach area. "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," explains Travis D. about Topsail Hill.
Tips for camping with families
Off-beach activities for rainy days: Weather can change quickly along the coast. "We stayed with two small tents in T6, which had some shade but was also adjacent to an open field area, which would be great for kiddos who want room to spread out and play games," suggests Latika Y. about Topsail Hill's flexible space options for children.
Bring bicycles for transportation: Many campgrounds feature internal trails and beach access paths ideal for bikes. "Highly recommend bringing your own bikes to get to both the beach and to explore the lake areas with a bit more biking," advises one Topsail Hill camper, noting this helps families navigate larger facilities without constant driving.
Alternative swimming options: When Gulf waters are rough, campground pools and protected bay swimming areas provide safer alternatives. "Such a fun place. We're a family of 4 with a kindergartner and a 4th grader. We could play on the campground beach located on the sound or drive about 5 minutes to the gulf front beach," shares Anna W. about Emerald Beach RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Interior campgrounds offer better value: RV parks located 3-5 miles inland typically provide more spacious sites at lower rates. "This is a pitch-black at night, quiet park and you don't see too many folks doing any of the typical RV park loitering. Seems like a lot of folks park their rigs and then head for the beaches," explains Eric S. about Black Creek RV Park, which offers full hookups 15 minutes from beaches.
Site selection impacts privacy: Even within crowded rv campgrounds near Miramar Beach, Florida, some sites offer better positioning. "The tent sites are all separated and private, the facilities are clean, and best of all they have access to the most lovely beach," notes Robin B. about Topsail Hill, contrasting with tighter arrangements at beachfront RV parks.
Concrete pad configurations vary significantly: Some pads are designed for specific RV types. "Our site had two Adirondack chairs and an extra-large paved patio, others had picnic tables, and some don't have anything," explains a reviewer at Geronimo RV Beach Resort, highlighting the importance of confirming specific site amenities when booking.
