Looking for the best tent campgrounds near Pensacola? Find the best information on tent camping near Pensacola, including sites, reviews, and tips for getting the most out of your camping experience. Each spot offers quick access to one or more of Pensacola, Florida's most popular destinations.
Choose a wooded campsite within walking distance of white sandy beaches or camp along the banks of a quietly moving river. Bring your boat or canoe, or fishing tackle and a rod, for a relaxing time with family and friends. Explore nature on the hiking trails, while at the same time leaving stress of the busy world behind. Attend a festival, a reenactment or simply do nothing. We are committed to providing a variety of accessible amenities for all visitors at Florida state parks, including campgrounds and cabins. One responsible person,18orolder,must be present on each campsite or cabin. • Camping fees vary from park to park and include a maximum of eight people per site, not including children under 6 years old. • Check-intimeis3p.m.Check-outtimeis1p.m.You are welcome to stay in the park through the end of the day. • Quiet time is from 11p.m.to 7a.m. • Campsites are limited to two vehicles. Selected campsites may only allow one vehicle.
$30 / night
Campers must reserve a site via www.nwfwater.com or by calling (850) 539-5999.
This area is available reservation throughout the year for organized youth groups comprised primarily of young people under the age of 18. This group camping area is located near Gulf Breeze, Florida and has direct access to Pensacola Bay for water recreation. The campsite features restrooms, outdoor showers, a picnic shelter, and campfire ring. The Naval Live Oaks Area has over 7.5 miles of trails for campers to explore.
$26 - $500 / night
Big Meadows Campground is near many of the major facilities and popular hiking trails in the Park, with three waterfalls and Big Meadows within walking distance. Camping fee: $20 per night Reservations: in early spring, Big Meadows Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis only. Beginning in early May, there are a combination of reserveable campsites and first-come, first-served sites available. Group sites are available and can be reserved up to one year in advance. RV Information: features pull-through and deep back-in sites which can handle most RVs and a tow vehicle. No electric or water hookups. Campground has potable water spigots and a dump station. Generators: use is limited to certain areas and times designated on campground map.
$20 / night
Traveler
Beautiful view of the lake & spacious sites. Make sure you take supplies, groceries trip is 20-30 minutes
Traveler
Nice and quiet. Good separation between campsites with shade. Bathhouses clean and close to most campsites. Plenty of walking trails. Love the Bird tower and kayak launch. Sandbar near launch to hangout when paddling. Perdido Key state park is close by for great beach access. Free if staying at Big Lagoon.
GuideCampground and beach area as well as bathrooms are in good shape. Camp sites are missing shade trees from hurricanes. Worth a stop👍
Guide
Really nice place to camp for folks who enjoy access to an uncrowded beach. There's a 25$ 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.
Guide
This is a busy spot but has everything you need close by, they serve food, ice cream, and drinks.
ScoutThe staff at 밤의전쟁 are friendly and attentive.
Ranger
If it didn’t have the Gulf weather and bugs and or for that matter, the campers, this would be a five star campground. I sit here writing this review at the pool. I opened my book to read and the lady next to me brought out her Bluetooth speaker to blast music. Last night, a family chowed down on a can of pringles in the pool. Trash everywhere at the fishing docks. My husband went to put our wash in the dryer last night and dryers were filled with abandoned clothing. People have bicycles with horns.
We did make the mistake of coming here during one of the busiest weeks of July, but that doesn’t mean that every campsite should be littered with crazy amounts of gear, despite it being so obviously oppressively hot and muggy that much of it seems unusable. I want to reiterate: the weather is vile but I still can’t imagine bringing fans to plug in OUTSIDE of my camper. The campers next to us have a large trailer, camper bus, a large truck and a golf cart. In one spot. That doesn’t include the bikes, the chairs, the tents, etc.
The actual campsites and facilities are nice. Individual campsites are spacious and level and come with a grill and picnic table. Some site locations are much better situated than others (I would never want to camp along Campground Road - it’s insanely busy with cars and bicycles). It’s great to have a large pool w backside, clean and fairly large laundry facilities, a camp store and an exceptional network of bike trails. There is also a very awesome nature center, several playgrounds, pickleball courts, a boat ramp, and free bicycle rentals! There is ten bathhouses and while only three bathroom and shower stalls each seemed insufficient to me there wasn’t anyone in the bathhouses any time I utilized them. They were super clean and in reasonable proximity to all of the sites in the loop.
The campground, which is massive (500 plus sites) consists of several loops, and is smack dab in the middle of the State Park. Campers get free parking at several beaches in the Park, which we utilized (beach was pretty quiet in the morning). I thought that was a great perk. We didn’t get to bike much between the heat and rain but the trail system looks amazing and there were plenty of staged opportunities for both free and paid bike rentals.
The campground is located right smack dab in between Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, which is ideal if you want to go play some miniature golf or grab a bite to eat.
I think coming off season is probably the best bet - we honestly didn’t even feel like we were in nature when we came and it was so darn humid I didn’t really want to nature anyway! I think the campground would benefit from allowing less vehicles at each spot - from my vantage point, I’m literally staring out at nine trucks for maybe three campers.
GuideWe stayed at spot 448. It was a pull through spot with a good amount of morning and late afternoon shade. Site was somewhat level, maybe about.75” lean on one side. Bathrooms were relatively close, but there was a lack of stalls for how many campsites there are. There is a lack of places to throw trash and the dumpsters are all the way back at the front of the park, it’s quite a drive. Not a lot of street lights throughout the campground made things nice and quiet at night. It was very nice that almost every spot had full hookups. The site had decent Verizon cell service, around 10-20 mbps. The Tmobile service was around the same. Service seemed to be better the closer to the main road you were in the park. The biking trails were amazing, very wide, with a good amount of shade. Lots of activities to do around the park besides the beach. You can walk or bike to the beach, although it's around 2 miles depending on where your spot is. Your parking pass for the campground also provides free parking at various beaches around the park. It’s only about a 15 minute drive to either gulf shores or orange beach for even more things to do. Overall the campground was clean, relatively quiet, right next to the beach, with a ton of activities. Negatives would be how expensive it is, lack of bathroom stalls, and since the park is so massive, it takes a while to get everywhere.
Scout
The most beautiful lake and the park stay just that better!!
GuideThe campground is within walking to the beach with a beautiful walkway full of trees. The bathrooms are clean. The camp site has a picnic table and a fire ring. Some sites have electricity and RV hookup.
TravelerClean restrooms and nice clean showers,nice big pool,beach nearby
Traveler
Very clean, well kept park. Good space between sites. The only downside I could find was I10 is close enough to be heard. 5 minutes away from battleship park. Plan for a whole day there if you really want to see everything they have to offer. Only an hours drive to the Naval Air Station at Pensacola. Highly recommend the museum there as well as Blue Angels practice viewing.
ScoutPerfect for anyone wanting to have a nice quiet stay near the beach. Can get pretty packed during the busy season though
Legend
Our site was pull thru, all with FHU, great water pressure, gravel sites. Great place to decompress and unwind, in a natural environment. Spacious sites, also saw a nice tent area, several portable potty’s, and a free to use washer and dryer in the Hanger/guest clubhouse , that also has a sink station, picnic tables, and grilling area! Lots of added touches! 3 dog parks, dog washing station, mutt mitts throughout park(which was much appreciated,) a nice playground, tree swing, volleyball area, soccer field, and disc golf. This is our third time here, the first was for the balloon festival, and we stayed in a smaller back-in site, second time was for our granddaughter’s cheer competition, in Orange Beach, and now we are here to kick off the summer with our grand at OWA! The pull through site was partly shady and more than accommodating, with our truck and 40” RV. T-Mobile was ok, but we used our Starlink for work and streaming, which was awesome…no interference. We went to the fireworks at OWA tonight and ate at The Goat and watched the playoffs! The rest of the week will be full of fun at Tropic Falls, and ACC is within minutes of restaurants, stores and beaches!
Scout
This was a nice spot and was free. You do have to have a reservation. It's a little unlevel and best to back in. Be sure to get a site map, or it will be hard to find.
TravelerThe staff at오피스타 are friendly and attentive.
Legend
Nice campground, gravel site with small pad with picnic table and fire ring. FHU, and plenty of activities and amenities for our granddaughter. Playground, mini golf, large outdoor Connect Four game. Nice dog park, camp store and pool, but too cold to swim. Didn’t use facilities, but looked clean. Tents and cabins in backside of the park. I would reserve there if possible some interstate noise upfront. Staff friendly and took us to our site. Love the bike trails nearby.
Guide
We had some rain but wasn't a big deal. The site we had was superb as had plenty of elbow room and with all the trees and bushes, could not even see the camper next to us. Great location if you want to drive into Pensacola. Was nice walk to the river with all the sandbars.
RangerAwesome state park with incredible facilities. We had reserved a campsite for our camper van, with my elderly parents renting a cabin at lakeside eagle cabins (also part of state park). It wasn’t a feasible option to walk between the two on a regular basis, so we ended up staying with them in their cabin so we could be together. It was phenomenal. New, modern, three bedroom cabin with awesome screen porch. Campground was clean and nice too. Good hiking trails in the park. We would return!
GuideThis campground has spacious campsites and not too far from a river. The river has soft Sandy bends, Perfect for swimming in. The campground has electric sewer and water. The restrooms were very clean here.
LegendThis is a beautiful state park with lots to do for the kiddos. They have nature trails, a swimming pool, tennis courts, shuffle board and a nature center where you can learn about local wildlife. There are several lakes for fishing. The beach is across the highway from the park, so you have to drive or take the shuttle service - there is a shuttle that runs throughout the park. It is a large park and very spread out. Tons of bathhouses - We did not use so can’t comment on the status. We did see alligators on the nature walk. Super cool. Most of the sites do not have shade, just fyi. the beach had one of those rollout handicap mats so you could get your wheelchair closer to the water. LOVED that!!
Scout
Our family drove over an hour to fish here. Upon arriving at the gate, we weren’t even greeted. A older lady stood up and just stared at us with a mean look. After about a 30 second stare, she finally said“hi”. I said“hi”. Another 15 second stare and she said”can I help you?” Very rudely. I said“yes we’re here to fish”. She said“we’re closed”. I asked what time they close daily and mentioned that google says open 24hrs and their website doesn’t list hours and she said“4”. I said we drove an hour here and you don’t close for another 45 min can we just drive through and look around, it’s our first time here. She said well I’m not charging you. I said this place was recommended to me on Facebook-can we at least look around? She said“no we’re closed”. I said ok what’s the price? She said we’re closed. I said I understand what you’re saying but what is the price? She sat down and refused to answer me. We left. We probably won’t be back. I decided to check around to see their reviews and it seems this lady is rude to everyone. Why has she not been replaced? I believe her name is Tracy. I tried to find out who her boss was by calling and emailing. However, no one answers the phone and she told me via email she’s the supervisor. SHE NEEDS TO BE REPLACED! So many people complain about her!!
GuideThese campgrounds areamazing. We have full hookups, wifi, activity center with pool, tennis courts, horseshoes and volleyball. Great hiking and biking trails.
GuideDid an overnight pit stop only. Conveniently located of the freeway, yet quiet. Fenced in dog yard. The staff is super helpful and friendly!
TravelerBlackwater River State Park is a hidden gem. Yet another one of the state of Florida's fantastic state parks. You don't need the beach when you've got the pristine white sands of the shores of Blackwater river. The river and the surrounds are super quiet, peaceful and beautiful. Tubing, kayaking canoeing are all super here as is the bike riding, if you know where to go, (hint: follow the road to the boat ramp just north of the entrance).
TravelerWhat can I say? Gulf State Park is the one by which all other parks in the region (NW Florida/Alabama) are to be compared. Everything you want: Hiking, BIKING, access to the beach, fishing, etc. Many sites have shade and a degree of seclusion. 28 or so paved bicycle trails, great Wifi, etc.
Only caveat: Good luck trying to book a site. Takes a pro, or a bot or something. It's rightfully popular.
TravelerThe campground itself is beautiful. The noise level is terrible. So if you are retired or want a nice, quiet place, this isn't it. The sprawling playground that aligns the campsites assures of loud, screaming children at all hours. Further, either there is no noise ordinance, or it is not enforced as loud music is ongoing into the night. Unfortunately, have to strike this beautiful spot off the list.
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
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Pensacola, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Pensacola, FL is Henderson Beach State Park with a 4.8-star rating from 36 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Pensacola, FL?
TheDyrt.com has all 8 tent camping locations near Pensacola, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
