Join the fun near Pensacola. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Pensacola campgrounds just for you. Discover great camping spots near Pensacola, reviewed by campers like you.
Fort Pickens Campground is situated on Santa Rosa Island, a part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore south of Pensacola and Gulf Breeze, Florida. Visitors are drawn to the Gulf of Mexico for Gulf Islands National Seashore's emerald coast waters, magnificent white beaches, fertile marshes and historical landscapes. Come explore with us today! Each camp site offers a fire pit, picnic table, and a paved pad to park on. There are heated showers and flush toilets. We offer electric and non-electric sites. Many of our sites have restrictions from low limbs or bushes so be sure you will fit. Limited overflow parking is available. Choose a site that will accommodate all of your equipment. Campers may not stay in the campground more than 14 consecutive days. This policy is strictly enforced. Entrance fees are required for the Fort Pickens area and are good for seven consecutive days from purchase. Pets are not allowed on any beaches sound and gulf side, ferries, piers, in forts, batteries, pavilions, or inside facilities.
Many visitors young and old come to Fort Pickens to enjoy its scenic location on the beach. The white sands of Santa Rosa Island are the perfect place for a long walk or an afternoon of building sandcastles. The warm ocean waters are great for swimming and snorkeling. Fishermen will find a pier just a short distance from the picnic pavilions. It can be used by visitors without a Florida fishing license. Many hiking trails through the sand dunes provide beautiful views and hours of exploration. Historic Fort Pickens, a pentagonal fort built to defend Pensacola Bay in 1834, is just 1 mile from the campground. The structure was fortified after the War of 1812 and was one of four forts in the South never occupied by Confederates during the Civil War.
The campground is located on a barrier island between the Gulf of Mexico and Pensacola Bay. Groves of live oak trees are scattered across the island, providing shelter for resident and migrating bird populations, as well as shade for park visitors. The Gulf Islands National Seashore is home to sparkling blue waters, white beaches and coastal marshes. However, more than 80% of the national park is underwater, as it's a vital protective habitat to marine life.
The campground is a short distance from restaurants and beach nightlife, downtown Pensacola, the Pensacola Naval Air Station and Naval Aviation Museum, the Pensacola Lighthouse and other historic sites. Campsites are within 1/4 mile of the beaches of the Emerald Coast of the Gulf of Mexico and Pensacola Bay.
Cancellation and modification fees are non-refundable.
$20 - $40 / night
Gulf State Park has two miles of beaches, a spacious campground and a brand new Lodge and Conference Center to greet you. Yes, we have gorgeous white sand,surging surf, seagulls and a variety of activities, but there is more than sand and surf to sink your toes into. There is something for everyone inside Gulf State Park Campground. The beach pavilion provides picnic tables as an escape from the beach, the nature center is a great place for the kids to learn, the swimming pool provides refreshment for our guests and the Lake Shelby day use area offers kayaking and canoeing. For a change of pace while visiting check out the fishing and education pier, miles of biking on the Backcountry trail, beautiful flowers in the butterfly garden, and additional education at the learning campus, interpretive center in the near future.
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$20 / night
The campground consists of 30 sites nestled among towering longleaf pine, magnolia trees and Atlantic white cedar. The Magnolia Loop features a playground that is easily viewed from most of the sites in the loop. The sites range from fully shaded to sunny.
Each campsite has 20, 30 and 50 amp electric service, potable water connections, RV sewer hookup, picnic table, fire ring and grill. The sites can accommodate all types of tent camping and 50-foot RVs. A playground is available for the kids.
From the campground, the Juniper Lake Trail opens up to the unspoiled beauty of the Blackwater River for hikers, beachgoers and anglers. A well-maintained restroom with showers is located between the two loops and is accessible via boardwalk from each camping loop.
Pets are welcome in designated areas.
A dump station is located on the campground road.
Maximum RV length = 50 ft.
$20 / night
The former Magnolia Beach Campground is under new ownership and is now "The Hideaway.” We are a camping retreat in Navarre, FL, that is receiving a beautiful new facelift. Nestled under mature Oak and Magnolia trees, The Hideaway Retreat is a little hidden gem. The Hideaway is where you go to reconnect with nature and one another the old fashioned way, in person. If you’re looking for a secluded place with plenty of areas to explore and enough tranquility to revitalize your mind, body, and spirit, then check out The Hideaway Retreat. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a fun way to spend your vacation, then there’s no better destination than our camping retreat in Navarre, FL. You’re sure to find something worth taking in our natural setting that blends beachfront beauty with all the features and camping retreat amenities you need to make your trip a success.
$89 / night
Oak Grove Park is located under the Oaks along the beach off Radford Blvd. You can cool off and swim at the beach nearby. It is within walking distance of the National Museum of Naval Aviation. There are 26 fully equipped cottages and 51 RV sites with full hookups. Reservations are recommended and are taken during office hours. Credit cards accepted.
$24 - $30 / night
$70 - $100 / night
Traveler
This is a great park with lots of amenities including Pickle Ball, Pool, Restaurant, Trails, etc. Pretty busy with over 400+ sites but an older crowd. Very relaxing and well kept. I’ll be back
Scout
Stayed for a week and while not on the beach is quiet and close to the items we wanted to go to. Fishing from their bridge is permitted. Flat concrete spots with picnic tables. Laundry service. Full hookups. 20 min drive to the beach and had a blast. Ants were bad. And we were heavily warned about not letting kids be out unsupervised even to walk the dog.
Traveler
Good facilities, including cable ( a rarity these days ). Had to drive our scooter 10 miles to town, beaches, lighthouse, or any historical sites or better restaurants. Staff friendly enough.
Traveler
Nice enough staff. Only 21 sites, mostly seasonal and a bit clicky. Power and water went off several times in month we were there.
Traveler
They were undergoing MAJOR renovations but didn't tell anyone until you got there. We booked month of January in October and they had already closed indoor pool but upon our arrival acted like it just happened. Half of park closed, I clouding bath house/ laundry in our area. Asked for a picnic table 4x in the month we were there and always told " maintenance has been informed" or "they're too busy". Gave up last week. ( almost everyone had one )
Scout
We were going to stay 3 nights, but after one night left. The noise from a nearby wood plant is unbearable.
Traveler
A bit too crowded and noisy for me. Loud trucks and kids screaming. Bathrooms and showers are nice.
Scout
I like to book my places to camp the night of. Since I wasn't able to find any free camping. I called them. The staff picked up immediately and was able to book me a spot online. Full hookup cost six 50 bucks for the night. Campground had all the amenities and with spacious. Checkout is at 11:00.
Traveler
A wonderful January camping trip ! It was about 45° but we stayed cozy by the fire pit . Our site was super close to the water , less than 100 yards! We had a picnic table too, perfect for meals outdoors. Can't wait to come back when it's warmer!
Legend
2000 acres Walking auto cell phone tours of civil war Boat tours Big pull through rv spots and a tent campground. Awesome
Legend
Single loop campground mostly RVs most of the site right next to the lake quiet, peaceful, amazing simple getaway. Half mile trail around the lake to the north campground on the other side of the lake. Both campgrounds are very similar.
Legend
This is a great single loop 20 site campground right on the lake mostly rvers. Individual bathroom, shower rooms, clean, and nice. Half mile walk around the lake to the adjacent campground on the south side of the lake is a single loop 20 site or so campground.
Guide
As always we were running late. We called ahead and after proof of reservation, a few friendly questions, we were given a gate code. Florida parks is always on top of it! Never though I would feel it necessary to comment” the most astounding gravel driveway” Clean shower houses, neat and tidy park, slept like a baby.
ScoutThis is an excellent RV site to stop. Its extremely clean, and well kept. We have visited numerous times, since my grandson lives near my, this has become our homebase in Pensicola.
Guide
Friendly staff. Mountain biking. Campsites with them without electricity and water. Great place to stay.
Traveler
Great place. Has laundry, showers. Pool and table tennis in same room as laundry. Snack machine. Cabins. Unfortunately we arrived late and left early so we didn't get to use all the facilities. Wifi was pretty good.
ScoutLarge campground. Not near the beach. Seems to be decently maintained. Bathrooms were updated and clean. Campground not near the park restaurants . Would be a long walk to get to them. Decent hookups. Beware of the ants!!!!!! The whole campground is infested with stinging ants. There are ant piles all over the campsites. I was stung really bad after accidentally getting near an ant hill. They are really bad!!!! Almost had to go to the ER.
Scout
This is a great place to enjoy the beach, fur pets, and outdoors!
Traveler
Beautiful view of the lake & spacious sites. Make sure you take supplies, groceries trip is 20-30 minutes
RangerWe were camping close by and did a drive thru just to see what it looked like. Smaller campgrounds with sites close together. It looks like it’d be a good option if looking for a spot in the area.
Ranger
Pros: Great location Good fishing Smaller camp site Friendly happy nice campers Great fishing dock Sites are close to level
Negatives: Very expensive nightly rates Restrooms no soap for the four days we were there Restrooms in rough shape Crapped camping sites Bugs with (black flys) that bite are out of hand they draw blood
We did enjoy our stay and will return in a year. New owners are taking over by November 2024, hopefully they make the improvements that they say they’ll do.
Guide
Our trip to St Andrew’s state park was cancelled due to Hurricane Helene so we had to make last minute change. We found them and they were only to blocks to the beach. Great location with restaurants and with access to to beach w/public restrooms right there. Also there is public parking as well at beach. Pads are all concrete and they help you park. Great little RV park. Beach was great.
Guide
Nice and quiet. Good separation between campsites with shade. Bathhouses clean and close to most campsites. Plenty of walking trails. Love the Bird tower and kayak launch. Sandbar near launch to hangout when paddling. Perdido Key state park is close by for great beach access. Free if staying at Big Lagoon.
GuideCampground and beach area as well as bathrooms are in good shape. Camp sites are missing shade trees from hurricanes. Worth a stop👍
Scout
We used this place for the stop for the night during our cross country road trip. The pull through site 67 had a nice level slab which was nice. Free wifi available and no contact check in. Late check in was perfectly fine. Alot of folks do live here.
Guide
Really nice place to camp for folks who enjoy access to an uncrowded beach. There's a 25$ entrance fee(one time fee for campers)at the gate coming into the Gulf Islands area so not many folks who just want to go to the beach. The sites aren't spectacular(not a lot of shade)but they do have the basics 30/50 Amp service at many sites (campground D is tent/popup specific). Clean bathhouses and well maintained grounds. This was our 1st time visiting in the middle of summer (who knew FL is hot and humid in July) we enjoyed the trip but in the future will make spring and fall for our target dates. Access to beautiful beaches and the sound are minutes away. Fees were 40$ a night at the time of our visit.
Ranger
The Blue Heron Escape RV resort is one of the newest RV camping options in Foley, AL. It is the perfect location for beachgoers and explorers to enjoy Alabama's Gulf Coast. It is approximately 6 miles from Gulf Shores/Orange Beach. Additionally, the location is perfectly distanced to avoid the hustle and bustle of tourists, and it is close to shopping.
The owners, Scott and Gayle, are very involved with the resort and make the time to welcome you to the park. They are continually looking for ways to improve their guest's experiences.
Camping near Pensacola, Florida, offers a mix of beautiful beaches, nature trails, and family-friendly activities. Whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin, there's something for everyone in this sunny region.
Beach Access: Many campgrounds, like Gulf State Park Campground, provide easy access to the beach. Campers appreciate the quiet mornings at the beach, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the scenery. One reviewer mentioned, "Campers get free parking at several beaches in the Park, which we utilized (beach was pretty quiet in the morning)."
Biking Trails: The area is known for its extensive biking trails. At Fort Pickens Campground, visitors enjoyed the wide, shaded paths. A camper noted, "The biking trails were amazing, very wide, with a good amount of shade."
Nature Exploration: Campgrounds like Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground offer great hiking opportunities. One visitor shared, "Excellent access to the beach, hiking, biking (many miles), lakes, great campground."
Camping in Pensacola, FL, provides a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, it’s a perfect getaway for families and nature lovers alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Pensacola, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Pensacola, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 143 campgrounds and RV parks near Pensacola, FL and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Pensacola, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Pensacola, FL is Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore with a 4.6-star rating from 95 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Pensacola, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Pensacola, FL.
What parks are near Pensacola, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Pensacola, FL that allow camping, notably Gulf Islands National Seashore and De Soto National Forest.
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