Glamping opportunities around Miramar Beach extend beyond beachfront locations, with options ranging from state forests to military recreation areas. The region sits along Florida's Gulf Coast at an elevation near sea level with a humid subtropical climate featuring hot summers and mild winters. Water temperature in the Gulf averages 85°F during summer months, making swimming comfortable from May through October.
What to do
Fishing from dedicated piers: At Twin Lakes Camp Resort, located about 40 minutes from Miramar Beach, anglers can fish from wooden docks surrounding the property. "There's a lot of wooden fishing docks. Boats to rent," notes visitor Cynthia K. The resort offers both day and night fishing options with lighted piers.
Hiking accessible trails: Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground offers several trails connecting to coastal dunes, lakes and the gulf. "Good trails, coastal dunes with lakes, fishing, paddling, beach, cabins, and tent camping including Glamping!" reports James M. The two-mile Campground Trail is particularly accessible for families.
Mini golf and games: Milton-Gulf Pines KOA provides on-site entertainment options including mini-golf. "We had a lot of fun playing putt putt and swimming in the pool," writes Tonya. The KOA also features outdoor games like a "large outdoor Connect Four game" according to reviewer L&A C.
What campers like
Private tent sites: Campers appreciate the secluded tent camping areas at several parks near Miramar Beach. Robin B. notes about Topsail Hill: "The tent sites are all separated and private, the facilities are clean, and best of all they have access to the most lovely beach!" Camping areas are often set back from RV sections for added privacy.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: St. Andrews State Park Campground offers frequent wildlife encounters near campsites. "We saw lots of other wildlife around, including deer and rabbits," writes Sonyia W. The park maintains a nature trail with a freshwater swamp featuring alligators and other native species.
Beach proximity without crowds: Sand Pond Campground in Pine Log State Forest provides a quieter alternative to busy beach camping while remaining within driving distance. A camper noted, "We stayed on a campsite right next to the pond. It made for fantastic sunsets!" The campground is approximately 25 miles from Panama City Beach according to Jamie P.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: At Camp On The Gulf, sites can be extremely tight, especially in beachfront areas. "Parking your rig is TIGHT. Like super tight," cautions Shannon J. Mike B. confirms: "We had great but tight camping just 10 steps from the beautiful sandy beach."
Military campgrounds require ID: For those with military connections, Eglin AFB FamCamp offers excellent value but has access requirements. "Department of defense ID is required for entry!" explains Michelle R. These facilities often provide lower rates but restrict access to active duty, retired military, or DoD employees.
Reservation timing matters: Many popular campgrounds in the area book up months in advance, particularly during peak seasons. Ed P. describes planning for Camp Robbins: "Coming up on our 3rd trip from Northeast Mississippi to Camp Robbins. We have always enjoyed Camp Robbins."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Emerald Coast RV Beach Resort provides multiple options for children. "Loved the amenities; two heated pools, clean nice playgrounds for the kids, nice laundry area, great layout to take walks," shares Corina J. The resort also offers basketball courts and pickle ball.
Protected swimming areas: St. Andrews State Park features a protected swimming area perfect for families with younger children. "A small area located inside rock jetties provides the perfect area for amateur and intermediate snorkeling," explains Denise K. This creates calmer waters compared to open beach areas.
Tent camping with hammocks: For families who enjoy hammock camping, Topsail Hill has options but requires planning. Travis D. advises: "For hammock campers the tent camping spots are okay for hammock camping. I made due but I was in spot 21 and there are no trees accessible enough to hang a hammock up how you would want, BUT they had a couple 4x4s in the ground so I used one of those and a tree."
Tips from RVers
Big rig access considerations: Navarre Beach Camping Resort provides waterfront camping but has space limitations. "The campsites are very close together and limited parking area for vehicles. Even with the crowded sites, the park is nice and quiet and a short drive west to the main Navarre Beach," reports Jon L.
Electrical hookup varieties: Many campgrounds offer different electrical options. Michael D. notes about Topsail Hill: "There is a potable water faucet and a two plug 30 amp electrical outlet at each site." When temperatures drop, these hookups become essential, as he explains: "I was here for the snow fall. The electric hook up was a saving grace."
Road conditions for RVs: Access to some campgrounds involves unpaved roads. Eric R. cautions about Sand Pond Campground: "We have about 1 mile of dirt road to get here. Some campsites can be tight if you have a big rig. Within the past year, they have removed some trees to make it easier to maneuver in the campground."
