5 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Mid Bay Shores Maxwell Recreation Area offers military-affiliated cabin accommodations on the white sandy shores of Choctawatchee Bay. The cabins provide waterfront views and direct access to the bay's recreational opportunities. Henderson Beach State Park Campground, located in the heart of Destin, features cabins within walking distance to emerald-green Gulf waters and sugar-white beaches. Most cabins include standard electricity, water hookups, and varying levels of kitchen facilities. "Military RV and Cabin Campground in close proximity to beaches at Destin Florida," notes one visitor about Mid Bay Shores.
Destin Army Recreation Area provides cabin lodging exclusively for military personnel, retirees, and their guests. Cabins range from studio to three-bedroom layouts, with full kitchen facilities and bathroom amenities. Many properties maintain pet-friendly cabin policies, though restrictions vary by location. At Henderson Beach State Park, amenities include heated and cooled bath facilities, laundry options, and convenient beach access via boardwalks. "RV sites are limited (30 or so). Very clean, right on Choctawhatchee Bay, less than 5 minutes drive from Destin Harbor," reports one military visitor.
Furnished cabins typically include beds, basic furniture, and sometimes kitchen equipment, but guests should plan to bring their own linens, towels, and personal items. Camp Gulf and Topsail Hill Preserve State Park both offer cabin rentals with varying amenities and proximity to local attractions. Grocery options and supplies are readily available, with a Walmart directly across from Henderson Beach State Park. Twin Lakes Camp Resort, located slightly farther north, provides cabin and yurt accommodations with lake access, catering to families seeking alternatives to beachfront properties.
"Longer hike to the beach than Henderson State Park but everyone seemed to have adapted with beach cart trailers behind their bikes. Beach tram runs when not on COVID shut down."
"Park roads are paved and easy to navigate in any size RV. There are plenty of tall trees for shade and bushes that provide privacy."
Available this weekend
from $24 - $130 / night
"We stayed in site 44 and it was private and near the bathrooms. All the sites had gravel, a picnic table, and and a fire pit as well as a clothesline. There’s a path to the beach from the bathhouse."
"Henderson Beach was my absolute favorite campsite on vacation in Florida this year (2020) Friendly staff and a very well maintained Park made the trip enjoyable. "
Available this weekend
from $30 / night
"The sites in the back of the park were roomier and had some shade, which I think made up for them not being as close to the ocean. The bath houses were awesome!"
"This park has something for everyone. Up top away from the beach the level sites have plenty of shade. Beachfront sites are tight but you have the ocean at your doorstep."
"Great site and beautiful lake view on site 16. Access to the beach was a bonus (most public beach access are closed due to covid19)."
"So, we are usually tent campers but on this night we decided to try a cabin rental and we were SO happy with the decision."
Available this weekend
from $30 - $110 / night
"We booked 5 months in advance for a 1 week stay. Small pool, splash pad, laundry facility and bath house are all nice."
"Very clean, right on Choctawhatchee Bay, less than 5 minutes drive from Destin Harbor."
from $20 - $24 / night
"Mid-Bay Shores, Maxwell/Gunter’s military Florida resort was formerly called Lake Pippin, the new name, Mid-Bay Shores, was chosen to better reflect the beautiful white sandy shores of Choctawatchee Bay"
"Most sites are very close to the water. There isn’t much of a beach as the strip of sand between the grass and the water is quite narrow. If you want to avoid the crowd this is the place."
from $10 - $50 / night
"We paid for the private deck overlooking the water and would do it again in a heartbeat."
"Great facilities: a pier, dog parks, lounge chairs in the sand, outdoor eating areas, friendly staff, easy check in, and lots of pull through slots!"
"The moment you step on the property you are greeted with staff that actually want to be there, everyone from office, store, clubhouse and maintenance."
"We tent camped but we had a nice shady spot on a comfortable raised sand bed. This campground has it's own sweet little beach and pier. Also has a small hot tub and a 4 foot deep heated pool."
"This camp resort is set on a lake with paved pads, full hookups, an activities center, swimming pool, laundry, excellent bathroom amenities. Lake allows fishing and is pet friendly."
"This park is cared for and very nicely executed. The sites all look level (ours was) and the hookups are well placed and maintained. Everything is aesthetically pleasing and done well."
from $75 - $85 / night
"Whether it be tent, camper, or full RV
Sights with power $40 per night
Fire Pits 🔥 * Picnic table * Power hook-up
Sights with NO power $26 per night (Standard"
"*The camping store is closed until they can find someone to run it. Wood and ice can be bought at the Tom Thumb just outside the park or at Walmart/Publix in Gulf Breeze."
Available this weekend
from $20 - $40 / night
ScoutMy campsite was turned into a construction zone. See pictures. My site should have not been available given the work that would be done. People all over my site, terrorizing my dog, using my picnic table as a staging area for supplies. Manager devoid of any form of empathy. They offered a site move(no thank you a day before departure) and 50% off(not adequate). AVOID AT ALL COSTS.
TravelerWe paid for the private deck overlooking the water and would do it again in a heartbeat. We didn't have to travel far and we're used to Gulf Coast views, but we couldn't be happier with our choice of campgrounds. Premium spots are a little tight if your neighbors have slides, but the deck makes up for it.
GuideGrayton Beach State Park is an outstanding place to camp in December, especially if you enjoy birding, hiking, and spending time outdoors without the heat and crowds of the summer months.
December is a great time to explore the park. The cooler temperatures make walking the trails much more comfortable, and the campground has a peaceful, laid-back feel during the winter. Tent camping is especially enjoyable if you come prepared for the weather. Days can be mild and beautiful, but mornings and nights can get surprisingly cool, so warm layers and a good sleeping bag are definitely worth bringing.
For birding, Grayton Beach is a fantastic location. The combination of coastal dunes, pine forest, wetlands, Western Lake, and the Gulf creates several different habitats within a relatively small area. Early mornings are particularly enjoyable when the park is quiet and wildlife is active. Bring a good pair of binoculars and take your time around Western Lake and the trails through the wooded areas.
GuideTopsail Hill Preserve State Park is an excellent place for tent camping in December, especially if you enjoy hiking, wildlife, and having easy access to the beach without the summer crowds.
December is a great time to experience the park. The cooler temperatures make hiking much more enjoyable, and the campground is generally quieter and more relaxed than during the warmer months. The nights can get chilly, so I would definitely recommend bringing a good sleeping bag, warm layers, and something to block the wind. During the day, though, the weather can be perfect for exploring.
My biggest advice for December tent campers is to prepare for changing weather. You could have a beautiful mild afternoon followed by a cold and windy night. Bring layers, rain protection, and a windproof jacket rather than relying on one heavy coat.
Overall, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is one of the better winter camping destinations on the Florida Panhandle. You get the Gulf, hiking, birding, dune lakes, wildlife, and a comfortable campground all in one place. For someone who prefers quiet trails and beaches over hot weather and summer crowds, December may actually be one of the best times of the year to camp here.
TravelerExcellent location for camping and having easy access to the beach. Bathhouse was incredibly clean and well maintained. Camp store has plenty of equipment to rent and there is tons of trails to ride bikes around and to the beach.
ScoutWell-maintained small RV park with 6 sites. We were all alone so we were able to get the only site with full shade all day. Pay in drop box by the mailboxes. First come first served.
ScoutMy family has been coming for 14 years and my kids grew up fishing crabing and swim
ScoutI rarely leave negative reviews, but this experience was incredibly disappointing. I reserved a specific campsite many months in advance for my birthday. Before arriving, I even received an email confirming that exact site. When I checked in, I was told they had given my reserved site to someone else and moved me to a different spot. The whole reason I booked so far in advance was to secure that particular location, so this completely defeated the purpose of planning ahead. What made the situation even worse was how it was handled. The manager never apologized or acknowledged the mistake. Instead, I was met with an attitude that made it seem like my frustration wasn’t justified. A sincere apology and some accountability would have gone a long way. To“make it right,” they offered a 20% discount, which honestly felt insulting given that they failed to honor a confirmed reservation on a special occasion. It wasn’t about the money—it was about keeping their commitment and treating customers with respect when they make a mistake. Unfortunately, what should have been a memorable birthday started with disappointment because of the park’s poor reservation management and lack of customer service. I hope they improve their processes and, more importantly, learn how to take responsibility when they let their guests down.
TravelerTop rate Florida State campground with full hookup. Bathrooms are spotless. Beach access with tram available throughout the day. We will be back.
Cabins near Niceville, Florida offer access to the region's coastal ecosystems where the Choctawhatchee Bay meets the Gulf of Mexico. The area maintains relatively mild winter temperatures ranging from 40-65°F, while summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity. Vacation cottages and military lodging options cater to different budgets, with peak booking seasons running March through August and during holiday periods.
Beach exploration: Access both bay and Gulf beaches within 5-30 minutes of Niceville cabin rentals. At Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground, "You are in the middle of a Preserve. Good trails, coastal dunes with lakes, fishing, paddling, beach, cabins, and tent camping including Glamping!" notes reviewer James M.
Fishing opportunities: Cast from piers or shorelines at several locations. A visitor at Destin Army Recreation Area mentions, "They have a nice clean pool and splash area for kids, a boat ramp and marina where you can rent boats, and a 300' fishing pier."
Military history: Explore coastal fortifications and naval sites. Fort Pickens Campground preserves significant military structures. "Walking path to the beach from the bathhouse. The bathhouse was very clean and there were men and women restrooms as well as private bathroom/showers," writes Elizabeth G., noting the combination of historical and recreational amenities.
Biking trails: Ride paved paths connecting cabin areas to beaches and attractions. "We didn't get to hike as it was already pretty late in the year (quite hot). Would definitely recommend bringing your own bikes to get to both the beach and to explore the lake areas," advises Latika Y. about Topsail Hill.
Privacy between sites: Many cabins and campsites feature natural barriers for seclusion. At Henderson Beach State Park Campground, "The sites are luscious and private. Walking path to a beautiful beach. Very clean," according to Lynn A.
Clean facilities: Restrooms and cabin amenities receive consistent positive reviews. Tony C. details, "There are two bath houses with laundry facilities, they were very clean and well maintained throughout our stay. The park hosts and maintenance personnel were visible and approachable with information and assistance if needed."
Waterfront views: Cabins situated for optimal water viewing. "The park 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.
Boardwalk access: Elevated walkways connect lodging to beaches. "Boardwalk to the beach and the beaches are so clean and baby powder soft," reports Gina W., highlighting the convenience of these structures at some parks.
Reservation timing: Book 3-6 months ahead for prime cabin locations. "Reservations here are extremely hard to get, especially on short notice. I highly recommend staying here if an opportunity presents itself," advises Tony C. about Henderson Beach State Park.
Military requirements: Some facilities restrict access to service members. "Military affiliated recreational area. Rates based on rank of military sponsor. Guests do not have to be military affiliated," clarifies Joseph C. about Mid Bay Shores Maxwell.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some locations. "For the park to be so private and beautiful, the noise generated by traffic on state highway 98 is obvious. Don't let this deter you from coming, this is a small inconvenience for the beach," notes Tony C.
Beach access variations: Walking distances to beaches range from direct access to 1+ mile walks. At Twin Lakes Camp Resort, "Lake surrounds all sites. Beautiful setting, private baths, huge amenities center. Fishing and glamping tents," explains Sandy G., offering an alternative to oceanfront options near Niceville.
Beach alternatives: Consider lake-based accommodations when Gulf beaches are crowded. "A private, gated road leads to level, stamped concrete pads landscaped with red lava rock around 2 lakes with great fishing either on the water or newly renovated or rebuilt piers lighted for night fishing," describes Shannon J. about Twin Lakes Camp Resort.
Activity variety: Choose sites with multiple recreation options for different ages. At Camp On The Gulf, "We had a lot of fun playing putt putt and swimming in the pool," reports Tonya, while Monica G. adds, "The week we were there they had a different activity for the kids each day. They had painting sand dollars, bubba the alligator show, face painting and even an Easter egg hunt."
Shade considerations: Select sites with natural cover during summer months. "We were in site 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," notes Latika Y. about Topsail Hill Preserve.
Cabin amenities: Verify what supplies are included with rental. "Each site has electric and water. There's a dump station near the entrance/exit of the park," explains Elizabeth G., noting infrastructure that supports family stays.
Site angles: Note entrance alignment when booking larger sites. At Milton-Gulf Pines KOA, "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," warns James R.
Laundry access: Check facility status before planning on-site washing. "3 out of 6 dryers were broke so it made laundry a bit challenging to do," reports Dawn D. about Navarre Beach Camping Resort.
Water hookups: Confirm connection types for your specific rig. "There is a potable water faucet and a two plug 30 amp electrical outlet at each site," notes Michael D. about Topsail Hill, providing specific utility information.
Spacing considerations: Research site dimensions for comfort levels. "Parking your rig is TIGHT. Like super tight. 2 nice pools and all other amenities like Wi-Fi, laundry, sewer, etc.," shares Shannon J. about Camp On The Gulf.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular cabin campsite near Niceville, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular cabin campground near Niceville, FL is Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 74 reviews.
What is the best site to find cabin camping near Niceville, FL?
TheDyrt.com has all 32 cabin camping locations near Niceville, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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