Camping near Shalimar, Florida centers around the protected coastal ecosystems of the Choctawhatchee Bay and Gulf of Mexico. The region sits at just 7-13 feet above sea level, creating a flat terrain ideal for both primitive and full-hookup camping sites. Most campgrounds remain open year-round with winter temperatures averaging 50-65°F while summer conditions bring 85-95°F temperatures with frequent afternoon thunderstorms from June through September.
What to do
Wildlife viewing: 3-4 miles from campgrounds. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities along its coastal dunes with lakes. "Keep in mind, this is a Preserve. Good trails, coastal dunes with lakes, fishing, paddling, beach, cabins, and tent camping including Glamping!" shared James M. The park's natural setting creates a habitat where wildlife is frequently spotted during early morning hours.
Fishing from piers: Free with camping fee. The Hideaway Retreat provides direct access to fishing from their pier. One visitor noted, "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. Would highly recommend." These fishing areas typically offer catches including redfish, flounder, and speckled trout.
Beach activities: 5-10 minute walks. Camp On The Gulf offers immediate beach access for swimming and sunbathing. As one camper explained: "This park has something for everyone. Up top away from the beach the level sites have plenty of shade. Beachfront sites are tight but you have the ocean at your doorstep." Most beachfront campgrounds provide shower stations to rinse off sand before returning to your site.
What campers like
Private camping spaces: Various layouts available. At Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park Campground, campers appreciate the site design. "Very well maintained campground. Sites are large with split rail fencing around each site. Restrooms are very clean. Family showers are also available, which is very helpful with little kids," noted Kim B. Many sites include natural vegetation barriers creating separation from neighboring campers.
Clean facilities: Maintained multiple times daily. Visitors consistently mention the cleanliness at Henderson Beach State Park Campground. "We stayed at Henderson Beach State Park in a small travel trailer. The gravel was freshly raked and all leaves recently removed. The sites included 50/30/20 electricity, water, table, fire ring and line for hanging towels," shared Tony C. Most campgrounds in the area maintain strict cleaning schedules with staff visible throughout the day.
Water views: Bay and Gulf options. Emerald Beach RV Park receives praise for its location. "Right on the water. Great facilities: a pier, dog parks, lounge chairs in the sand, outdoor eating areas, friendly staff, easy check in, and lots of pull through slots!" notes Allison N. Many waterfront sites command premium rates but provide direct water access not found at standard sites.
What you should know
Reservation timing: 6+ months advance booking. The most popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially Henderson Beach State Park. "Reservations here are extremely hard to get, especially on short notice. I highly recommend staying here if an opportunity presents itself," advises Tony C. Peak booking windows typically open 11 months in advance with most sites reserved within hours of availability.
Site access considerations: Tight navigation in some parks. Destin West RV Resort has specific site characteristics to consider. "The campground is well manicured, and beautiful. There are no pull thru sites, but the back in sites are easy enough to maneuver," notes Justin S. Many campgrounds have low-hanging trees requiring careful navigation for taller rigs.
Military-only options: Valid ID required. Eglin AFB FamCamp offers excellent value but restricted access. "Nice Famcamp with pull thru spots, laundry and showers. You are close to BX/Commissary and if you like the sound of planes it is awesome!" explains Gayle A. These facilities require Department of Defense identification for entry but typically cost 30-50% less than civilian alternatives.
Tips for camping with families
Beach proximity considerations: Walking distances. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground requires planning for beach access. "Either ride your bike or take the tram the mile to the boardwalk and beach. Clean showers, friendly staff at the camp store," advises John O. Families often bring collapsible wagons to transport beach supplies from campsites to shorelines.
Playground availability: Select locations only. Navarre Beach Camping Resort provides dedicated play areas. "It is a fairly nice park, however it's dense and feels crowded. Seems like there are quite a bit of long term campers here. Lots of children running around, mopeds etc," notes American Streamer's S. Playground areas typically include swings, slides and covered picnic areas for family gatherings.
Swimming options beyond beaches: Heated pools. Camp On The Gulf offers pool alternatives to ocean swimming. "They have 2 pools one is covered and heated with a hot tub. They have basketball courts, corn hole, a playground even pool tables," explains Monica G. Pool hours typically run 9am to 9pm with some facilities requiring quiet hours during afternoon rest periods.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Varies by park. Geronimo RV Beach Resort offers favorable site conditions. "Pristine grounds and bathrooms, spacious, level sites, convenient location and excellent service. Everything you want in a no frills campground," shares Arleen Q. Most parks provide either concrete pads or compacted gravel with minimal leveling required.
Laundry facilities: Limited capacity. Emerald Beach RV Park has functional but busy laundry rooms. "This was our 2nd time camping here. Such a fun place. We're a family of 4 with a kindergartner and a 4th grader. We could play on the campground beach located on the sound or drive about 5 minutes to the gulf front beach," notes Anna W. Typical costs run $2.00-4.50 per load with varying machine availability.
Site spacing: Premium rates for roomier spots. Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park provides more space than commercial alternatives. "I was so impressed with this campground. I was in site #26. Plenty of room. Friendly staff, locked gates at night and well maintained park," explains Kemberley P. RVs over 40 feet should confirm site dimensions before booking as some parks have limited capacity for larger rigs.
