Hurricane Lake North Campground
Quiet, peaceful, beautiful lake great fishing no gas powered engines allowed on lake electric and paddle only nice boat ramp clean campsites campground host extremely nice
130 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds along the Emerald Coast near Miramar Beach, Florida range from beachfront state parks to inland recreation areas, covering everything from full-hookup RV sites to traditional tent camping. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground and Henderson Beach State Park Campground provide developed sites with full hookups for RVs, plus cabin options and traditional tent camping areas. Camp On The Gulf offers beachfront RV sites directly on the white sand beaches, while several military recreation areas like Mid Bay Shores provide camping access for service members. Most campgrounds in the region feature water and electric hookups, with many offering sewer connections for extended stays.
Many state park campgrounds require reservations up to 11 months in advance, particularly during peak vacation seasons. "Florida state parks book out 11 months in advance. We lucked out and snagged a coveted site on the lake due to a last-minute cancellation," noted one camper at Grayton Beach State Park. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, while winters remain mild with occasional cool spells. Hurricane season (June through November) may affect camping plans, though fall and spring typically offer the most comfortable conditions. Most developed campgrounds provide shower facilities and restrooms, though amenities vary significantly between primitive sites and resort-style parks. Cell service is generally reliable near populated areas but may be limited in more remote forest campgrounds.
Beachfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors drawn to the region's famous sugar-white sand beaches and emerald waters. Campers frequently mention the pristine beach conditions as a primary reason for visiting, with several noting the crystal blue water and powder-soft sand. "The beaches in this area are GORGEOUS! Crystal blue water and sugar white sand," one reviewer commented about Camp On The Gulf. While beachfront sites command premium rates and book quickly, they provide direct access to swimming and water activities. Inland forest campgrounds like those in Point Washington State Forest and Blackwater River State Forest offer more affordable alternatives with hiking trails, lake access, and greater privacy between sites. Fishing opportunities abound throughout the region in both freshwater lakes and the Gulf of Mexico, with several campgrounds providing boat ramps or fishing docks.
"My wife and I are frequent campers in NW Florida and Alabama. Topsail is certainly one of our favorites. Excellent access to the beach, hiking, biking (many miles), lakes, great campground. "
"Beautiful beach, trees between paved spots, bike path, cute coffee shop on site, bike rentals, & a great location!"
from $24 - $130 / night
Check Availability"Pad 13 is a roomy site surrounded by lush foliage and trees. Included on my site was a nice picnic table, fire pit and clothes line."
"It was nice to have such close access to groceries, coffee, Target, etc but then leave it all behind when driving through the park entrance gate."
from $30 / night
Check Availability"Great proximity to the beach. Depending on your site several are just steps from the beach (actually on the beach if you don’t need sewer)."
"Just as nice as a resort but here you have direct access to the sand, because you can park directly on the beach! No need for shoes if you get a site on the sand."
"Yet another great Florida State campground! Florida does it right when it comes to campgrounds, and Grayton is no exception. The beach is beautiful, fairly secluded and easily accessible. "
"Grayton Beach is conveniently located right off 30A. It's really a convenient location to retail and grocery shopping while still offering seclusion."
from $30 - $110 / night
Check Availability"Conveniently close to grocery stores. If you want to stay in Florida at affordable prices and have access to the best beaches in the US. This is the place to stay."
"Close to everything and I now want to move to Niceville, Florida. Very quiet in the campground day and night."
from $16 / night
Check Availability"We stayed at this park for 10 days because our original plan to stay at nearby Topsail Hill Preserve State Park was derailed by the closure of all Florida State Parks due to Covid-19."
"Proximity to beach is about 10 mins. The staff were incredible. They advised on timing. They helped guide me backing in and walked the hook ups to explain. Restroom and laundry were clean."
"Fantastic sites, great amenities, and access to resort and beachfront included. Some of the sites are real close to the busy highway, and there's an AFB nearby"
"Short walk to beach. Full 50 amp hookup. Overlooks bay. Easily accessible. Picnic table with umbrella. Lot covered by pavers. Cons: No Wifi for week of stay."
"Very clean, right on Choctawhatchee Bay, less than 5 minutes drive from Destin Harbor."
"Close to beach access and all the touristy things Destin has to offer. We will definitely be back!"
from $20 - $24 / night
Check Availability"Mid-Bay Shores, Maxwell/Gunter’s military Florida resort was formerly called Lake Pippin, the new name, Mid-Bay Shores, was chosen to better reflect the beautiful white sandy shores of Choctawatchee Bay"
"Most sites are very close to the water. There isn’t much of a beach as the strip of sand between the grass and the water is quite narrow. If you want to avoid the crowd this is the place."
from $10 - $50 / night
Check Availability"It’s also a short walk to the water. Close to several towns including Ft Walton Beach. We are currently at the Family camp and will bounce between the two campgrounds on base"
"Camp Robbins is located on Eglin AFB just outside the Fort Walton Beach area."












Quiet, peaceful, beautiful lake great fishing no gas powered engines allowed on lake electric and paddle only nice boat ramp clean campsites campground host extremely nice
Just be forewarned this is NOT a normal camping experience. By far.
Firstly, there are no actual accommodations as advertised. The "camping" you will experience consists of no primitive sites, no RV hookups, no amenities to speak of, and many other inconsistencies despite what's being presented here. There are no private areas even for changing your clothes much less anything else. As it sits beside a major county roadway with a public boat ramp with roadside public parking making any chance of alone time impossible most days. You CANNOT per county ordinances have any unregulated fires or burning due to the lake being EPA protected. If you get caught disturbing any of the flora or fauna you are subject to possible fines or prosecution by FWC. Not one stump is to be disturbed at all. The advertisement is misleading regarding this property. For the amount of money being charged you may as well go a few more miles and get a room at a motel. It would be cheaper if you did. I gave two stars because of the lake itself. Which BTW, is NOT actually "visible " from this property itself. The best viewing and admiring is better at the PUBLIC areas that are county owned and somewhat maintained. The lake itself is public use for everyone. Not to mention that this property owner has a negative reputation for shady practices in the local area. Any observations of illegal practices should be reported to law enforcement.
My campsite was turned into a construction zone. See pictures. My site should have not been available given the work that would be done. People all over my site, terrorizing my dog, using my picnic table as a staging area for supplies. Manager devoid of any form of empathy. They offered a site move(no thank you a day before departure) and 50% off(not adequate). AVOID AT ALL COSTS.
We paid for the private deck overlooking the water and would do it again in a heartbeat. We didn't have to travel far and we're used to Gulf Coast views, but we couldn't be happier with our choice of campgrounds. Premium spots are a little tight if your neighbors have slides, but the deck makes up for it.
Great park well maintained with level gravel sites. Fire rings, bbqs, benches are in great shape. Bathrooms very clean and maintained.
Small campground. Peaceful. Mostly older people in small RVs. Oddly enough no issue with mosquitoes which was shocking! Very nice sites
Grayton Beach State Park is an outstanding place to camp in December, especially if you enjoy birding, hiking, and spending time outdoors without the heat and crowds of the summer months.
December is a great time to explore the park. The cooler temperatures make walking the trails much more comfortable, and the campground has a peaceful, laid-back feel during the winter. Tent camping is especially enjoyable if you come prepared for the weather. Days can be mild and beautiful, but mornings and nights can get surprisingly cool, so warm layers and a good sleeping bag are definitely worth bringing.
For birding, Grayton Beach is a fantastic location. The combination of coastal dunes, pine forest, wetlands, Western Lake, and the Gulf creates several different habitats within a relatively small area. Early mornings are particularly enjoyable when the park is quiet and wildlife is active. Bring a good pair of binoculars and take your time around Western Lake and the trails through the wooded areas.
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is an excellent place for tent camping in December, especially if you enjoy hiking, wildlife, and having easy access to the beach without the summer crowds.
December is a great time to experience the park. The cooler temperatures make hiking much more enjoyable, and the campground is generally quieter and more relaxed than during the warmer months. The nights can get chilly, so I would definitely recommend bringing a good sleeping bag, warm layers, and something to block the wind. During the day, though, the weather can be perfect for exploring.
My biggest advice for December tent campers is to prepare for changing weather. You could have a beautiful mild afternoon followed by a cold and windy night. Bring layers, rain protection, and a windproof jacket rather than relying on one heavy coat.
Overall, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is one of the better winter camping destinations on the Florida Panhandle. You get the Gulf, hiking, birding, dune lakes, wildlife, and a comfortable campground all in one place. For someone who prefers quiet trails and beaches over hot weather and summer crowds, December may actually be one of the best times of the year to camp here.
We enjoyed the night stay here. Everything is clean and orderly. Will stay again.
Tent and RV sites at Miramar Beach provide direct access to boating activities in nearby Choctawhatchee Bay and forest trails in Point Washington State Forest. Tent camping options remain limited to state parks and private resorts that accommodate both RVs and tents. Most campsites near Miramar Beach require reservations 3-6 months in advance during spring and fall shoulder seasons when temperatures range from 65-85°F with lower humidity than summer months.
Paddle the Choctawhatchee Bay: Military recreation areas like Mid Bay Shores Maxwell offer water access specifically for service members and veterans. "Lots of room and very shaded. Most sites are very close to the water. There isn't much of a beach as the strip of sand between the grass and the water is quite narrow," notes one visitor. The protected shoreline provides calmer waters than Gulf beaches.
Explore nature trails: Trails at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground connect coastal dunes with freshwater lakes and Gulf beaches. "Cool shorter hiking trails to take you to lakes or the gulf, or as we call it Lake Florida now," explains a hammock camper. The preserve contains several rare coastal dune lakes and offers wildlife viewing opportunities throughout its trail system.
Beach fishing: Many campgrounds provide access to both bay and Gulf fishing. Seasonal runs of pompano, redfish, and whiting attract anglers year-round. One military camper at Destin Army Recreation Area mentions, "There is also boat, kayak and paddle board rentals available and docks to crab and fish off." Fishing licenses are required for non-residents over 16, with 3-day passes available for $17.
Private tent sites: Tent campers frequently praise the seclusion at Henderson Beach State Park Campground. "You are in the middle of Destin but this place is gorgeous and quiet. The sites are luscious and private. Walking path to a beautiful beach. Very clean," states one reviewer. The campground provides a natural buffer from nearby commercial development.
Family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds offer facilities specifically designed for children. Camp On The Gulf receives praise for its recreational options: "We had a good time camping here. The beach was beautiful. The week we were there they had a different activity for the kids each day. They had painting sand dollars, bubba the alligator show, face painting and even an Easter egg hunt."
Beach access quality: Campers consistently mention the pristine condition of Emerald Coast beaches. At Grayton Beach State Park Campground, one visitor appreciated "Easy walk to the beach/gulf, but we found the walk to be beautiful and saw quite a few birds along the way." The combination of natural trails leading to undeveloped beaches is frequently highlighted.
Military-only options: Several campgrounds near Miramar Beach restrict access to military personnel and their guests. Eglin AFB FamCamp - Camp Robbins requires Department of Defense ID for entry. "Clean bathrooms with decent showers. $1.50 for each laundry machine. Dirt/paved roads, your gear and rig will get muddy or sandy," reports one military camper.
Site spacing variations: Commercial RV parks often place sites closer together than state parks. At Camp On The Gulf, a reviewer noted: "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." State parks typically offer more space between sites.
Reservation timing: For state parks, planning ahead remains essential. One camper at Grayton Beach explained, "You can reserve campsites in Florida state parks 11 months in advance, but I don't plan that far ahead! We lucked out and snagged a coveted site on the lake due to a last-minute cancellation."
Beach safety protocols: Rip currents can occur along Gulf beaches, particularly during storm systems. Flag warning systems are posted at public beach access points. At Henderson Beach State Park, one family camper shared: "We fit 2 tents at our site. It was so humid and muggy I cowboy camped on the gravel with my picnic blanket and sleeping pad. Everyone else slept in the tents without the rain fly's for some ventilation."
Water activities for kids: Geronimo RV Beach Resort provides convenient beach access: "Great location with restaurants and with access 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." The proximity to developed beaches with restrooms simplifies day trips with children.
Alternative swimming options: When Gulf waters have rough conditions, some campgrounds offer pool facilities. At Camp On The Gulf: "One outdoor pool was closed but one was covered in a huge inflatable tent. We had it all to ourselves for an evening dip. Even on a rainy day, you can't beat the location."
Site selection for big rigs: Destin West RV Resort accommodates larger RVs but has specific site constraints. "We stayed for 2 days so I could visit my sister. It was super quiet and clean. Our space fit us perfectly. It was a pull in so we had to unhitch our tow to back out our class A tiffin but this wasn't a problem," notes one RVer.
Beach transit options: Many campgrounds near Miramar Beach require crossing busy roads to reach Gulf beaches. "In order to get to the beach we had to cross a major thoroughfare. The traffic was horrible and there are no sidewalks that allow us to make it to a crosswalk," reports a family at Destin West RV Resort. Some campers recommend renting golf carts for easier beach access.
Utility connections: Full hookup availability varies by campground. At Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground, a camper mentioned: "There is a potable water faucet and a two plug 30 amp electrical outlet at each site." Tent campers should note electrical access since summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there campgrounds directly on Miramar Beach, Florida?
Yes, Camp On The Gulf offers sites directly on Miramar Beach with premium beachfront locations where you can park your RV right on the sand. This unique campground provides direct beach access with no need for shoes if you choose a beachfront site. While not technically on Miramar Beach but within a short drive, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground offers excellent beach access with hiking and biking trails. Most other camping options in the area are near the beach but not directly on it.
What amenities are offered at Camp Gulf in Miramar Beach?
Camp On The Gulf offers a resort-like experience with direct beach access as its premier amenity. The campground features beachfront sites (some without sewer) and non-beachfront sites with full hookups. Amenities include lush foliage and palm trees providing some privacy between sites, daytime staff to assist with backing into spaces, and escort service to your site. The campground is known for its proximity to the crystal blue waters and sugar-white sand beaches that characterize the Miramar Beach area. Many visitors compare the experience to staying at a resort but with the added benefit of immediate beach access.
How much does it cost to camp in Miramar Beach?
Camping costs in the Miramar Beach area vary widely depending on location, amenities, and season. For more affordable options near Miramar Beach, Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park Campground offers sites at typical state park rates while still providing access to beautiful beaches. For military members, Mid Bay Shores Maxwell offers a gated resort-like setting facing Choctawatchee Bay at military discount rates. Premium beachfront camping at private RV parks can command significantly higher rates, especially during peak tourist seasons, with prices often ranging from $75-150+ per night depending on location and amenities.
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