Camping sites near Navarre, Florida include options along inland rivers and state parks beyond the popular beach destinations. The area sits at the intersection of several different ecosystems, from coastal dunes to pine forests, creating diverse camping environments within a 30-mile radius. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-65°F, making December through February an excellent time to avoid both the summer heat and hurricane concerns.
What to Do
Paddling adventures: The clear waters of Blackwater River State Park Campground offer excellent paddling opportunities with pristine white sand shorelines. "This is one of my favorites! There are bugs and normal FL stuff, but the river is awesome! If you love trees especially pines....this is the spot. Also GREAT tubing and canoeing!" notes Tessa M.
Historical exploration: Visit the historic military fortifications at Fort Pickens Campground on the Gulf Islands National Seashore. "Ranger-led tours occur during the year and are very fun and informative. We went on a full moon night hike where the ranger talk focused on astrology and how moon phases impact some animals," shares Nancy W.
Beach activities: Navarre Beach Camping Resort provides direct water access with their own private beach area. "We enjoyed the pool and the pier. The only reason I cant give it 5 stars is the laundry room and the shower rooms could have been better," notes Dawn D. The campground also offers a convenient location for exploring multiple beach areas.
What Campers Like
Private beach access: The private shorelines at Santa Rosa RV Resort receive high marks for their cleanliness and amenities. "Clean, comfortable park on the Santa Rosa Bay, which is right across from the Gulf of Mexico. Beautiful sunsets and the pool was heated to 87 degrees! Includes a small, dog friendly, beach," explains Doug.
Shade and tree coverage: The Hideaway Retreat stands out for its natural setting among mature trees. "What sets this campground apart is the numerous trees on the property. I visited on a cool, cloudy day in February, but I imagine the shade from the trees would be very welcome in the summer," reports Lee D. The retreat provides a contrast to the more open, beachfront campgrounds.
Clean facilities: Emerald Beach RV Park maintains well-kept bathhouses and common areas. "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. Friendly staff and super clean shower houses," shares Anna W.
What You Should Know
Booking window requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "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.
Site privacy considerations: Campsites at many RV parks have limited privacy and can be tight. "The sites are VERY small - you are packed in like sardines - do not expect any privacy whatsoever," notes Gypsy G. about The Hideaway Retreat.
Hurricane damage impact: Some facilities experience ongoing repairs from storm damage. "The pier advertised is destroyed from the hurricane last year and repairs have not begun on it nor the sea wall, which does take away from the beach experience," explains Allyse about The Hideaway Retreat.
Tips for Camping with Families
Dog-friendly areas: Emerald Beach RV Park welcomes pets with dedicated areas. "Loved our short stay here. Friendly staff, clean campground, fun little dog beach, great fishing pier and small beach," shares Andrew H. Many families appreciate the ability to bring their pets along.
Playground options: Several campgrounds offer children's activities beyond the beach. "We enjoyed our stay here and will be back for future Florida stays. Great staff. Pool was nice! Great little putt putt area for kids," says Jimmy L. about Milton-Gulf Pines KOA.
Water safety considerations: Sound-side beaches are often preferred for younger children. "The depth and calmness are perfect for younger children and parents who want to semi-chill on the beach without too much worry," explains Gypsy G. about The Hideaway Retreat's waterfront.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RVers should carefully select sites based on size and potential for noise. "This is a KOA Holiday park with buddy sites. RV sites are long enough for 44 ft motorhome and toad. However sites are at 90 degree angle and hard to get into for big rigs, but doable," advises James R. about Milton-Gulf Pines KOA.
Highway noise concerns: Avalon Landing RV Park provides waterfront sites but with some road noise. "This is an excellent RV site to stop. Its extremely clean, and well kept," says Miguel M., though others note "road noise at night" can be an issue at some sites.
Turning radius challenges: Tree canopies and tight corners require careful maneuvering. "There's a lot of trees, make sure you're an expert if hauling a trailer or driving a large RV because space is tight and the tree canopies are low," warns Dwight L. about The Hideaway Retreat.
