Panama City Beach camping areas have diverse elevation changes despite Florida's generally flat terrain. Most sites sit 10-15 feet above sea level with some beach campgrounds at lower elevations and inland sites reaching up to 50 feet. The region experiences humid subtropical climate with temperatures ranging from 45-65°F in winter and 75-90°F in summer, creating distinct camping experiences depending on seasonal timing.
What to do
Kayaking at freshwater lakes: Point Washington State Forest's Eastern Lake Campground offers secluded lake access away from Gulf beaches. "Nice secluded little spot close to our home in Fort Walton but still manages to feel like you're far away," notes Karen S. The forest maintains multiple water entry points for small watercraft without the crowds of beachfront areas.
Beach snorkeling for beginners: The protected area at St. Andrews State Park Campground provides ideal conditions for novice snorkelers. "Best area for protected, near shore snorkeling. A small area located inside rock jetties provides the perfect area for amateur and intermediate snorkeling," writes Denise K. The jetty-protected area maintains calmer waters than open Gulf beaches.
Nature trail hiking: Sand Pond Campground offers a well-maintained 2-mile loop trail connecting multiple habitats. "The two-mile Campground Trail, part of the Forest Service's Trailwalker Program, winds along the banks of Cyprus Pond, through the mixed hardwood/pine forest, and around Sand Pond. This is a nice and easy, well-maintained, level trail," explains Dale W.
Wildlife observation: Campers report regular wildlife sightings at multiple campgrounds throughout the area. "We saw lots of other wildlife around, including deer and rabbits," notes a Topsail Hill Preserve State Park visitor. Early morning and dusk provide optimal viewing times for local wildlife.
What campers like
Site privacy and spacing: Grayton Beach State Park Campground receives consistent praise for its well-designed site layouts. "There is good privacy in the campground, with thick brush and trees separating the sites," writes Fred M. Sites along the water feature additional spacing compared to interior locations.
Water proximity options: The region offers varied water access from beachfront locations to lake-view sites. "We were able to put our kayaks in right off the site," explains Aida K. about Grayton Beach's waterfront camping. Multiple campgrounds provide direct water views without requiring site changes.
Clean facilities despite high usage: Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground maintains above-average cleanliness standards according to multiple reviews. "The facilities are always clean and safe. The park staff and volunteers are always helpful and kind," states Matt M. Regular maintenance schedules operate even during peak visitor seasons.
Natural settings close to amenities: Multiple campgrounds balance natural surroundings with nearby conveniences. "It felt like we were miles from urban life, but in reality this park is very close to entertainment, shopping, food, etc.," explains Sara S. about St. Andrews State Park. Most campgrounds maintain wooded perimeters while providing easy access to supplies within 5-10 minutes.
What you should know
Beach access variability: Walking distances to beaches vary significantly between campgrounds. "Longer walk to the beach/gulf, but we found the walk to be beautiful and saw quite a few birds along the way," notes Denise about Topsail Hill Preserve. Direct beach access is limited to specific campgrounds while others require drives of 10-15 minutes.
Post-hurricane rebuilding continues: Several parks continue recovery efforts years after major storms. "Park is under construction with improvements. Trails, paddling access, shelters, concession, food available," states James M. about St. Andrews State Park. Construction schedules may affect specific campground sections or amenities.
Road quality concerns after rain: Point Washington State Forest camping areas have access challenges during wet periods. "I came in a day after rain and there were numerous significant deep puddles to get through. I was grateful my Sprinter had knobby tires and was a little higher," warns Jared. Small vehicles may struggle on forest roads after precipitation.
Gate access requirements: Several campgrounds implement security measures requiring advance planning. "Very nice quiet secluded spot. Camp site has locked gate, should receive gate code once reserve with reserveamerica," explains Ty C. Campers must secure access codes before arrival as cell service may be limited.
Tips for camping with families
Specialized kid-friendly areas: Raccoon River Campground offers dedicated play structures. "Very nice and centrally located. About 10min walk to putt putt golf, beach, and water park. Shady, clean, 2 pools are very nice...great playground and fort looking structure for people with kiddos," shares Courtney B. Multiple age-appropriate sections accommodate different developmental stages.
Kid-friendly wildlife viewing: St. Andrews State Park provides regular wildlife encounters suitable for children. "A special treat for the kids each year is the white tailed deer walking through the sites and the bike ride over to the 'Kiddie Pool' at the jetties," notes Matt M. Morning and evening hours yield most frequent animal sightings.
Open play spaces: Some campgrounds feature designated areas for unstructured play. "Sites were perfect. Electric perfect. Water was great," reports Jeff T. about Grayton Beach State Park, which maintains open field areas between camping loops for games and activities.
Beach alternatives during peak sun hours: When midday heat makes beach trips challenging, multiple parks offer alternate water options. "One is on the gulf, and one is between the gulf and the bay. The gulf water is a lot choppier but clearer, and the swimming in the spot by the bay is much calmer," explains Sonyia W. about the swimming options at St. Andrews State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for pet owners: Pineglen Motorcoach & RV Park offers specialized pet amenities for extended stays. "An open field serves as a place for dogs to run. There is even an outdoor dog wash," notes Carol. The park provides designated pet relief areas away from camping pads.
Reservation timing importance: Popular campgrounds require advance planning. "This is a hard location to get a site. Reservations have to be made far in advance," advises Fred M. about Grayton Beach. Winter reservations may require 10-12 months advance booking while shoulder seasons allow 3-6 month windows.
Utility placement challenges: Older campgrounds may have non-standard hookup locations. "Electric and water hookups are on passenger side when connecting. Make sure your hookups can reach. Sewer is on drivers side," warns Jeff T. Camper's Inn and similar older facilities may require extension hoses or cables.
Noise considerations: Some oceanfront camping areas experience noise from nearby entertainment. "Very loud! The campground is directly across the street from a bar and grill that plays live music LOUDLY every night. So loud that you can hear it over the a/c running," reports Cat R. Sites further from main roads typically offer quieter environments.
