Point Washington State Forest offers primitive camping options on the eastern edge of Santa Rosa Beach, with the Eastern Lake Campground area featuring just four tent sites separated by natural vegetation. The campgrounds maintain a rugged character with gravel tent pads, fire rings, and limited facilities. Roads accessing camping sites near Santa Rosa Beach can become challenging after rain, with deep puddles sometimes covering headlights on forest service roads.
What to do
Paddle at Topsail Hill Preserve: Topsail Hill Preserve State Park offers diverse paddling opportunities with coastal dunes, lakes, and beach access. James M. noted, "Keep in mind, this is a Preserve. Good trails, coastal dunes with lakes, fishing, paddling, beach, cabins, and tent camping including Glamping!"
Hike through maritime forests: Pine Log State Forest features well-maintained trails through mixed hardwood and pine forests. Dale W. described his experience: "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."
Fish from docks and shorelines: Several campgrounds provide fishing access from docks and shorelines. A reviewer at Eastern Lake Campground commented, "There's access/views to water about 100 feet from sites 3&4," making it convenient for shore fishing without needing a boat.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently mention site separation as a positive feature. At Henderson Beach State Park, one camper described, "The sites are luscious and private. Walking path to a beautiful beach. Very clean." This privacy creates a more natural camping experience despite being in a popular tourist area.
Unique tent camping options: Grayton Beach State Park offers semi-private tent sites with some backing to Western Lake. Aida K. shared, "It all starts at Grayton Beach state park with having several sites with water view on Western lake. We were able to put our kayaks in right off the site."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural settings provide chances to observe local wildlife. At Eastern Lake Campground, some campers reported seeing active bears, though sightings are rare. At Henderson Beach, visitors mentioned watching deer grazing at sunset along the beach.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Securing sites requires advance planning, especially for state parks. One camper noted about Grayton Beach State Park: "This is a hard location to get a site. Reservations have to be made far in advance."
Road conditions to primitive sites: Forest service roads can become challenging after rain. Regarding Point Washington State Forest, a camper advised, "I would not chance the forest roads in a sedan. You might be okay if it stays dry but if it rains you will not be in good shape."
Gate codes for forest camping: Some forest campgrounds require gate codes provided when reserving. A camper at Eastern Lake Campground noted, "Campsite has locked gate, should receive gate code once reserve with reserveamerica. Also if very importance: you cannot get to site from 30A, google maps does not know if you link from this app - entrance is from hwy 98."
Tips for camping with families
Tent site selection: When tent camping with children, look for sites with space for play. At Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, Latika Y. advised: "We stayed with two small tents in T6, which had some shade but was also adjacent to an open field area, which would be great for kiddos who want room to spread out and play games."
Bathhouse facilities: State parks vary in bathroom quality and availability. Kim B. noted about Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park: "Restrooms are very clean. Family showers are also available, which is very helpful with little kids."
Beach tram availability: Some parks offer transportation to beaches, saving families from long walks. Travis D. mentioned at Topsail Hill: "Great spot! Cool shorter hiking trails to take you to lakes or the gulf, or as we call it Lake Florida now."
Tips from RVers
RV sites with views: For RVers seeking scenic sites, consider lakefront options. One camper shared about Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park: "The 30s sites are definitely preferred due to having beautiful water views!"
Pull-through accessibility: Some campgrounds offer easier access for larger rigs. Tony C. noted about Henderson Beach State Park: "Our site was fantastic, site 22 is a pull through site that is extremely long and private. Any sized rig could be accommodated there with room for towed or towing vehicles."
Navigating tight spaces: Camp On The Gulf in Destin provides beachfront camping but requires careful maneuvering. Shannon J. warned, "Parking your rig is TIGHT. Like super tight. 2 nice pools and all other amenities like Wi-Fi, laundry, sewer, etc. Easy access to local shopping and dining."
