Navarre and Pensacola beach areas offer year-round RV camping options along Florida's Gulf Coast with average winter temperatures around 60°F and summer highs reaching the 90s. Most campgrounds in this region provide water access either directly on the Santa Rosa Sound or within short driving distance to Gulf beaches, with seasonal rate variations between $50-120 per night depending on location and amenities.
What to do
Fishing from campground piers: At Avalon Landing RV Park, campers can fish directly from the bridge that separates two sections of the campground. "People were fishing right off the bridge that separates the two parts of the campground," notes Lawrence Robert T., while another visitor mentioned "we were able to fish behind our camper."
Visit Fort Pickens: A short drive from Navarre Beach camping areas leads to historic Fort Pickens where military history and wildlife viewing opportunities combine. "Close to Ft. Pickens where we not only saw the fort, but the Blue Angels practice," shares Teresa S., highlighting an added benefit of the area's military presence.
Experience local tiki bars: Several beachfront RV parks feature on-site entertainment options. "The tiki bar on the sound beach was incredible, with lots of chairs & bean bags to laze around in," reports Emily L. about her stay at Pensacola Beach RV Resort, providing a convenient social option without leaving the campground.
What campers like
Heated pool access: Multiple RV sites maintain heated pools year-round, extending swimming seasons beyond summer months. "The pool is heated but they don't open it if it's not at least 55 degrees by 10am," explains Heather H. about Santa Rosa RV Resort, while another visitor noted their pool was "beautiful & super clean, with lights all around & a fountain!"
Convenient beach proximity: The ability to walk to beaches ranks highly in camper reviews. "This resort is the perfect location to visit Pensacola Beach. Lots of tourist things to do: playing in the sand, eating in every restaurant imaginable, fishing, recreation, etc.," according to Teresa S., who appreciated the central location.
Assistance with parking: Several parks provide staff help with backing in or setting up. "The staff was so helpful. We were taken to our site and we were guided as we backed up our RV," says Annette V. about her experience at Avalon Landing RV Park, an especially valuable service for those with larger rigs or less experience.
What you should know
Traffic and noise considerations: Location factors significantly impact campground experience throughout the region. "The traffic on the road the resort sits on is awful so plan ahead. Also, it's near a huge air force base which does large ammunition testing late at night. A couple nights, our camper shook," warns Heather H. about staying near military installations.
Variable laundry facilities: RV parks have inconsistent laundry amenities. "Small laundry area with clean machines," notes one reviewer, while another mentioned, "3 out of 6 dryers were broke so it made laundry a bit challenging to do" at Navarre Beach Camping Resort.
Size and spacing differences: Campgrounds vary dramatically in site dimensions and privacy. "The 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," reports James R. about Milton-Gulf Pines KOA, while another park was described as having sites "close together but we did have a little brick patio with a picnic table."
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly beaches: For families with pets, look for campgrounds with dedicated pet areas. "There's also a dog park just over a mile away with a swimming area for dogs," notes Martin R. about Perdido Key RV Resort, providing an important amenity for pet owners.
On-site recreation options: Some parks offer activities beyond swimming. "They have a playground, mini golf, large outdoor Connect Four game. Nice dog park, camp store and pool," shares one family about their stay at Milton-Gulf Pines KOA, making it suitable for entertaining children.
Safety considerations: Some areas require extra vigilance. "We were heavily warned about not letting kids be out unsupervised even to walk the dog," mentions Lauren M., highlighting the importance of checking with park management about current safety recommendations.
Tips from RVers
Leveling and site conditions: Emerald Beach RV Park receives praise for practical site features. "Site 50 is level with full hookups," notes James R., while another visitor mentioned "The campsites are full hook up but are tight squeeze with a +40ft camper." This information helps RVers prepare for arrival.
Late arrival accommodations: For those traveling long distances, Five Flags RV Park offers helpful check-in options. "Free wifi available and no contact check in. Late check in was perfectly fine," mentions Blake P., an important consideration for travelers crossing multiple time zones.
Cell service reliability: Internet connectivity varies between parks. "ATT and TMobile service bad but not park's fault. However, their WiFi was almost useless," reports one reviewer, while others mention adequate service for remote work needs, an important factor for digital nomads.
