Fort Pickens Campground offers beach access combined with historic attractions on the Gulf Islands National Seashore near Shalimar, Florida. Located on a sandy peninsula between the Gulf of Mexico and Pensacola Bay, this area features white sand beaches and clear blue water. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-65°F, while summer months see consistent 80-90°F weather with high humidity.
What to do
Explore historic sites: Fort Pickens Campground provides access to historic military installations. "We were less than a 10 minute walk from the beach and walked about 30 minutes to the old fort," notes one visitor at Fort Pickens Campground.
Beach fishing: The shallow waters around Navarre Beach Camping Resort offer excellent fishing opportunities. "There is nice access to water off the pier and seating is available on their private beach," according to a camper who gave the resort three stars.
Hiking trails: Topsail Hill Preserve State Park features multiple trail options connecting various ecosystems. "Cool shorter hiking trails to take you to lakes or the gulf, or as we call it Lake Florida now," mentions a reviewer at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The coastal areas provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. "The Osprey are everywhere. Great views sunsets, dolphins turtles shells!" reports a visitor to Fort Pickens, though they caution about summer heat.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Henderson Beach State Park offers secluded camping spaces. "The sites are luscious and private. Walking path to a beautiful beach. Very clean," writes a reviewer who visited Henderson Beach State Park Campground.
Clean bathroom facilities: Camp On The Gulf maintains individual shower rooms with complete amenities. "The restrooms were very clean and they have individual shower rooms that have a toilet and sink too," notes a visitor who appreciated these facilities.
Military-exclusive facilities: For qualified personnel, Mid Bay Shores Maxwell provides controlled access and dedicated amenities. "28 RV spaces with full hook-ups– water, electrical and sewer, and six overflow sites with just water and electrical hook-ups," explains a reviewer who appreciated this military recreation area.
Beach proximity: Several campgrounds offer direct beach access. "You are in the middle of Destin but this place is gorgeous and quiet," mentions a camper at Henderson Beach State Park, highlighting the unusual combination of convenience and seclusion.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Booking well in advance is essential, especially for popular campgrounds. "Reservations here are extremely hard to get, especially on short notice," warns a camper about Henderson Beach State Park.
Weather considerations: Summer months bring intense heat and insects. "Campground is HOT! Very few trees! Bring your own shade," advises a Fort Pickens visitor who also recommends bug spray.
Beach conditions: While beautiful, some beaches have natural hazards to consider. "Watch for sharks in Summer," cautions a reviewer at Fort Pickens Campground.
Distance to supplies: Most camping areas require planning for provisions. "The campground is about 10 miles from the nearest convenient store or restaurant so it is best to stock up on groceries before you come," notes a Fort Pickens visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Campgrounds often provide additional recreation for children. "They have 2 pools one is covered and heated with a hot tub. They have basketball courts, corn hole, a playground even pool tables," shares a visitor to Camp On The Gulf.
Kid-friendly programming: Some parks offer organized activities for children. "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," reports a Camp On The Gulf camper.
Space for play: Look for sites with additional open areas. "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," recommends a Topsail Hill visitor.
Practical facilities: Milton-Gulf Pines KOA provides family-friendly amenities throughout their property. "Great staff. Pool was nice! Great little putt putt area for kids," according to a reviewer at Milton-Gulf Pines KOA.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Many coastal campgrounds have tight spacing. "Parking your rig is TIGHT. Like super tight," warns a Camp On The Gulf visitor, though they noted the easy access to shopping and dining compensates for this limitation.
Seasonal considerations: Winter visitors may encounter cooler temperatures but gain other benefits. "I was here for the snow fall. The electric hook up was a saving grace," shares a Topsail Hill camper who appreciated having power during unexpected weather.
Site dimensions: For larger RVs, check specific site measurements before booking. "RV sites are long enough for 44 ft motorhome and toad. However sites are at 90 degree angle and hard to get into for big rigs, but doable," advises a Milton-Gulf Pines KOA visitor.
Utilities information: Most cabin and RV sites provide essential hookups. "There is a potable water faucet and a two plug 30 amp electrical outlet at each site," notes a Topsail Hill camper about the available connections.
