Florida's panhandle region offers several glamping options near Silver Springs, with proximity to both the Gulf of Mexico and inland waterways. The area features a subtropical climate with mild winters and hot, humid summers. Glamping accommodations range from basic canvas tents to luxury units with climate control systems that make staying comfortable year-round.
What to do
Beach access: At Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy both coastal and inland activities. One camper noted, "Keep in mind, this is a Preserve. Good trails, coastal dunes with lakes, fishing, paddling, beach, cabins, and tent camping including Glamping!"
Paddling opportunities: The inland waterways provide excellent kayaking experiences. Fishing from your site is popular at many resorts, with one visitor at Twin Lakes Camp Resort sharing, "Surrounded by 2 lakes this is a nice clean camp ground. Concert pads with full hook ups... They have fishing docks and a nice little store when you check in and has a bathhouse with laundry facilities."
Hiking trails: Many glamping locations feature trail systems. A Topsail Hill camper explained, "The tent sites are all separated and private, the facilities are clean, and best of all they have access to the most lovely beach! The beach backs onto the preserve so there is no development for miles."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: While some glamping sites place units close together, others offer more seclusion. A guest at Camp On The Gulf observed, "We had great but tight camping just 10 steps from the beautiful sandy beach. Lots of great and clean amenities. Very nice people running the campground and very nice people around us."
Modern bathroom facilities: Many glampers appreciate the upgraded facilities. One visitor to Topsail Hill commented, "I was at one of the few 'tent' campsites in the park. Our site was back off the road in the brush - very private even with a trail just on the other side of the bushes... Clean showers, friendly staff at the camp store."
Waterfront views: Watching sunsets from your site ranks high on camper satisfaction. A Twin Lakes guest mentioned, "This is one of the best campgrounds we've ever stayed! Beautiful, picturesque campsites. A lot of them have lake views. Bathrooms/showers are gorgeous."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Hurricane season runs June through November, with highest risk August-October. Plan accordingly with cancellation policies.
Booking windows: Prime sites book months in advance. One camper at Eglin AFB FamCamp shared, "Checked in Friday 01/17 and extended my stay from 2 nights to 7 nights. I'm enjoying the solitude. I'm at a tent site, no WIFI. T Mobile is 4 bars."
Noise factors: Some locations experience noise from nearby roads or facilities. A visitor noted, "Now this is in the flight path of Eglin AFB. The staff is excellent both friendly and helpful."
Environmental challenges: Sand, insects and heat can impact comfort. A camper at Topsail Hill advised, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Water features rank high for family satisfaction. A visitor to Splash RV Resort & Waterpark shared, "We have been to Splash RV two times now. Last time was before school started, and it has been our granddaughters favorite RV park so far. The lazy river and waterslides were her favorite."
Playground access: Look for sites with recreational facilities. One camper reported, "There are a lot of activities planned for the kids…the free donuts on the weekend, were a hit."
Educational opportunities: Many locations offer nature programs or guided activities. A Topsail Hill visitor explained, "I visited first time this park. beautiful sites happy people on earth day last Saturday I took many pics talked to interesting people, received face paint bee for me and butterfly for my Margaret."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Some glamping locations have challenging entrances for larger units. A visitor to Avalon Landing RV Park noted, "The staff was so helpful. We were taken to our site and we were guided as we backed up our RV."
Hookup availability: Not all glamping sites provide full hookups. Check requirements before booking. One RVer explained, "Spots were gravel with nice paved patios. Small laundry area with clean machines. Unisex baths were clean."
Parking logistics: Some locations have limited parking at sites. A camper at Camp On The Gulf mentioned, "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."
