Rocky Bayou State Park is situated at the northern edge of Niceville with direct access to Choctawhatchee Bay. The park sits at approximately 10 feet above sea level with summer temperatures typically ranging from 75-95°F and high humidity from June through September. Winter camping conditions are mild with daytime temperatures averaging 50-65°F, making it one of the more comfortable dog friendly campgrounds near Niceville for year-round visits.
What to do
Kayaking on Rocky Bayou: Rent equipment on-site to explore the protected waters with fewer crowds than ocean beaches. "We rented a kayak from the campground with a friend. Spent most of the day exploring the bayou. Pretty sure we spotted a bald eagle but didn't have binoculars to confirm," notes a visitor at Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park Campground.
Beach access at Henderson Beach: Located 25 minutes from Niceville, this state park offers clean white sand beaches with less congestion than public beaches. "You are in the middle of Destin but this place is gorgeous and quiet. The sites are luscious and private. Walking path to a beautiful beach," reports a camper at Henderson Beach State Park Campground.
Hiking at Topsail Hill Preserve: Explore coastal dune lakes and forested trails throughout the 1,640-acre preserve. "Good trails, coastal dunes with lakes, fishing, paddling, beach, cabins, and tent camping including Glamping!" shares a reviewer from Topsail Hill Preserve State Park.
Boating at Legion Park: Located just a mile from Geronimo RV Resort, this county park offers free boat launching facilities. "About a mile away is Legion Park, a county park with a boat launch, picnic areas with grills, and a playground. We used this park daily to launch our paddle craft."
What campers like
Private, well-maintained sites: Most Niceville area campgrounds feature spacious campsites with good separation. "Our site was level and had privacy from the neighboring sites, with electric, water and sewer hookups! Easy walk to Western Lake - some sites even back up to the lake," explains a camper at Grayton Beach State Park Campground.
Exceptional shower facilities: Pet-friendly campgrounds near Niceville consistently receive praise for clean facilities. "I was so impressed with this campground. The bathrooms (all of them) were well cleaned. Showers have plenty of room and I loved their washer/dryer set up too," notes a visitor to Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park.
Natural surroundings close to conveniences: The area provides woodlands while staying near amenities. "There is a potable water faucet and a two plug 30 amp electrical outlet at each site," mentions a Topsail Hill camper who adds, "I love this place. Checked in Friday and extended my stay from 2 nights to 7 nights. I'm enjoying the solitude."
Military camping options: Two Eglin AFB campgrounds provide affordable options for service members. "Coming up on our 3rd trip from Northeast Mississippi to Camp Robbins. For the price, location and security I would give it five stars," shares a visitor to Eglin AFB FamCamp - Camp Robbins.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Secure sites 6-11 months in advance, especially for winter stays. "This is a hard location to get a site. Reservations have to be made far in advance. There is good privacy in the campground, with thick brush and trees separating the sites," advises a camper at Grayton Beach State Park.
Varying pet policies at beaches: County and state beaches have different rules for pets. "Dogs are not allowed on the beach in the county so this was a great place for her to play and swim," notes a visitor about using Legion Park as an alternative swimming spot for dogs.
Weather considerations: Be prepared for sudden weather changes. "We stayed at Camp Robbins for 30 days. The only reason this is not a 5 star rating is due to the potential for flooding. Definitely need to ensure your rig stays on the gravel pads. Low/soft ground all around," warns a camper at Eglin AFB - Post'l Point FamCamp.
Military aircraft noise: Eglin Air Force Base operations create regular noise. "Camp Robbins is located just south of Eglins airfield so if roaring and screaming fighter jets first thing in the morning is not for you scratch this camp off your list. On the other hand if roaring jets don't bother you then you'll probably enjoy the free airshow every morning."
Tips for camping with families
Protected swimming areas: Western Lake at Grayton Beach provides calm waters for children. "You can walk to one of the best beaches in the United States," shares a visitor who adds, "This is one of our favorite places. The sites are huge and shaded."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature kid-friendly play areas. "Park has boating ramp to the bayou. Close to beaches in Destin, yet away from the hustle and bustle. Park rangers, gated entry after dark, and campground hosts make this park safe and enjoyable for families," explains a camper at Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou.
Educational opportunities: Nature programs run regularly at state parks. "Located across the street from the beach access is Topsail Hill Preserve State Park which has around 20 miles of trails," notes a visitor who found this ideal for family nature exploration.
Camp near amenities: Choose sites close to bathhouses when camping with children. "We stayed in site 44 and it was private and near the bathrooms. All the sites had gravel, a picnic table, and a fire pit as well as a clothesline. There's a path to the beach from the bathhouse," shares a family at Camp On The Gulf.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Sites at Fred Gannon can accommodate large RVs but require planning. "The nicest campground we've stayed at. Washer/dryer. Clean restrooms. Safe. Very pretty views," notes a camper.
Travel between campgrounds and beaches: Account for traffic when planning trips to the shore. "In order to get to the beach we had to cross a major thoroughfare. The traffic was horrible and there are no sidewalks that allow us to make it to a crosswalk," warns a visitor at Destin West RV Resort.
Hookup quality: Most Niceville area campgrounds feature reliable utilities. "Beautiful RV park that backs up to the bay and across the street from the beach. All paved sites, very clean and well groomed full hook up sites," shares a Destin West RV Resort visitor.
Space considerations: Site dimensions vary significantly between parks. "You are right on the ocean front. Power and water only. Spacious sites. Great laundry facilities," mentions a visitor to Eglin AFB - Post'l Point FamCamp.
