The best campgrounds near Destin, Florida with horseback riding

Take the dreamy sunsets and sugary sands of Florida’s Emerald Coast, throw in a bar and restaurant-lined harbor, a handful of golf courses, and a state park, and you’ve got Destin, one of the Panhandle’s most popular beach resorts. Perched on a peninsula between Choctawhatchee Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, sunseekers have a choice of beaches in Destin, where you can swim, snorkel, parasail, cruise the coast in search of dolphins, or cool off at a waterpark. RV parks, resorts, and campgrounds are dotted along the peninsula, or you can camp amid the sand dunes at Henderson Beach State Park.

95% (361)

Top-rated campgrounds near Destin

Take the dreamy sunsets and sugary sands of Florida’s Emerald Coast, throw in a bar and restaurant-lined harbor, a handful of golf courses, and a state park, and you’ve got Destin, one of the Panhandle’s most popular beach resorts. Perched on a peninsula between Choctawhatchee Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, sunseekers have a choice of beaches in Destin, where you can swim, snorkel, parasail, cruise the coast in search of dolphins, or cool off at a waterpark. RV parks, resorts, and campgrounds are dotted along the peninsula, or you can camp amid the sand dunes at Henderson Beach State Park.

95% (361)

Top-rated campgrounds near Destin

1. 30A Bay Hideaway

100%

(194)

14mi from Destin · 1 site · RV

Private, gated waterfront estate on the shores of Choctawhatchee Bay. Close to the activities on 30A and the Gulf of Mexico (7 minutes) but secluded enough to feel like you have your own private piece of paradise with amazing sunset views. The bay is full of life: watch mullet jump, catch crabs, watch for dolphins and sting rays. If you enjoy fishing, try night fishing on the dock, too. Bay charters come to the waters around our dock on their excursions! If you bring a boat, Cessna Landing is just under 2 miles away with a very nice boat launch. Tie your boat to our dock for the duration of your visit. Boating, paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing, swimming, sunset watching, bicycling and campfires are a few things to enjoy while at the 30A Bay Hideaway. Sunset viewing deck, bay beach/dock, fire pit and an outdoor shower and sink with hot water and an outdoor mini-fridge are included in the listing. Owners are not onsite during rental periods and the property is limited to one RV site so you can be sure you will have the property all to yourself!

2. The Red Barn

96%

(28)

34mi from Destin · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Nestled on 3 acres right next to blackwater national forest & yellow river management area. Lots of swimming, kayaking, fishing, hunting! Hunters delight! Also less than a hour drive to local beaches! Pensacola, Navarre, Ft. Walton! We offer kayaks on site for a small fee! There’s also several swimming areas on Blackwater river close by as well!

3. Apple Hill Cabins and Camp Ground

98%

(56)

45mi from Destin · 36 sites · Tents, RVs

Associated on 40 acres. Adjacent to Conecuh and Blackwater National forests. Five RV pads, areas for primitive camping. Two Rustic Cabins with bath and showers. Amenities include fishponds,( no license required, no catch limit). Ponds have bass, brim, catfish and tilapia. Access to Blackwater River for swimming, canoeing, tubing or Kayaking. Hunting allowed in National Forests in season with license, skinning rack available on site. only 45 miles from the beach camp or stay in cabins an drive to the beach and save a $$$$$$ drive or pull your big rvs and leave them in goods hands to you return for your next vacation

4. Florala State Park

28 sites · Florala, Alabama

Day-cationers, we found your Gulf getaway. Florala State Park is close enough to several major areas that you can come down here for a short-term getaway if need be, though campers are of course more than welcome. White sand beaches and water that has been deemed some of the cleanest in Alabama, creates a real allure for fishers and swimmers alike. Birders can keep an eye out for osprey and bald eagles, or just hike the beautiful winding trails. Swing by a historic Victorian mansion on your way out, or grab a bite to eat at one of the many Southern-style family restaurants. With a great location for a great getaway, what's not to like?

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

5. Conecuh National Forest

100%

(1)

74 sites · Carolina, Alabama

The southernmost outdoor playground in Alabama, Conecuh National Forest is sure to keep the most experienced adventurers in awe with it’s stunning wetlands and pine forests. This low coastal plain can be enjoyed best in the wintertime. The cool temps and bugless days will allow you to enjoy the 20 mile Conecuh Trail with ease. Wind through bogs and ponds, hunters will dig plentiful deer, quail and turkey season. You might even meet these woodland friends on the trail! Camping at Open Pond Recreation Area means brews, fishing and biking all steps from your tent...who doesn’t want to fish with a beer in hand? A real southern dream, Conecuh knows how to turn on the charm and turn up the heat!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

6. Larry & Sheila's Blackwater Getaway

99%

(160)

46mi from Destin · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

WEDDINGS, Vow Renewals, Special Anniversary, Family Reunion, Large Parties? Enjoy It All River Side With Rustic But Elegant Vibes. One Of The Host Is An Ordained Minister; The Other Host Is An Event Planner/ Designer. Different Package Options Are Available. Come Plan Your Special Day with Us. Two Month Minimum Notice on Booking If You Wish for Hosts to Plan/Decorate for Your Event. 50 Guest Maximum. Two Night Minimum Booking For Event. $2300 Covers Reservation Of Property, Decorations and Cleanup. Food Packages, DJ.'s ETC Will Be Additional According To Your Individual Needs. This listing will accommodate Two Full 30 Amp RV Hookups for Your Wedding Party with Lots of Extra Space to Pitch a Tent and Park Your Guests. Cabin and Additional RV Site Coming Now Available. Check Out Our Other Listings For More Details.

7. Choctawhatchee Bay

83%

(12)

16mi from Destin · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Very private woods, gardens, and an aquifer-fed pond teeming with wildlife. A short walk to the park on Choctawhatchee Bay. The water is calm for swimming and paddling. A short drive or bike ride to the finest beaches in the world. The nearby 331 bridge allows freedom from the tourist traffic on Hwy 98. There are just two campsites overall and they are in the shade. Kids are safe to explore our long dead-end road with only two neighbors at the end.

Public campgrounds near Destin

Florala Campground

43mi from Destin · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · in Florala State Park

100%

(1)

Open Pond Recreation Area

48mi from Destin · 74 sites · Tents, RVs · in Conecuh National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Autumn

November 2025

Tent

With kids

4 nights at Larry & Sheila's Blackwater Getaway

Sheila and her husband have a beautiful home and were great to work with.

Autumn

November 2025

With pets

4 nights at Larry & Sheila's Blackwater Getaway

Amazing family, great to work with ( I messed up when booking and she helped me straighten it all up! Thank you!). Made lots of beautiful memories.

B

Brittany

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Larry & Sheila's Blackwater Getaway

The host was very nice and welcoming. The water and property was beautiful. It was nice having a shower, toilet, sink, and power. It was very peaceful. We really enjoyed our weekend!

D

Dana

November 2025

31 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at 30A Bay Hideaway

We've been sojourning here for almost five years. We drive our camper from Kansas City to the Everglades for the winter and stop here at the Bay Hideaway to and from to visit our six grandchildren that live in the area. It is a perfect Hideaway, with no 'stranger danger', a huge lawn to play on, a shallow bay for the kids to have fun catching crabs, a very long dock, a tree house, not to mention the quiet and the gorgeous views. I love the porch, and the trees and marsh for the excellent birdwatching. In the four days we were here this visit we saw over 15 types of birds including a Clapper Rail, a Bald Eagle, and lots of shore birds. Crystal and Nathan have been helpful and a pleasure to communicate with... very highly recommend staying here!

K

Kevin

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Larry & Sheila's Blackwater Getaway

Supper nice. Definitely going backwards. River is nice. Power,water and toilet.

A

Adam

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Larry & Sheila's Blackwater Getaway

Great tent spots right on the river, nearby patio area has all the needed amenities to make any length of stay comfortable. Host is very friendly and hospitable. Fun spot for kids to explore riverbank or do some fishing, we caught and released several over a short period. Highly recommend this spot if want to throw up a tent or park an RV.

We can’t get enough of the Hogtown Bayou sunsets.

W

William

September 2025

35 ft fifth wheel

6 nights at 30A Bay Hideaway

Book it! We felt so lucky that we found this spot super last minute. The hosts were so kind to allow us to book the same day we were arriving. We stayed a week in this paradise. Sunrises and sunsets were world class. The campsite itself was level and clean with full hookups. Getting our 36’ fifth wheel back there was no problem at all. We can’t wait to stay here the next time we’re in town visiting family.

A

Ashley

September 2025

10 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Larry & Sheila's Blackwater Getaway

Absolutely loved this cute little secluded campground in the forest. There was absolutely no cell service, but that was a nice change. There’s no regular power hookups at the campsite, which sucked but we had a backup plan for those times. We will most definitely be back!!

Tami

September 2025

29 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Larry & Sheila's Blackwater Getaway

It was beautiful, quiet, and dark at night. Phone service was a little sketchy but she warns about that and anyway, you're there to unplug and get away! The river is beautiful.

T

Tyler

September 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Larry & Sheila's Blackwater Getaway

Cozy spot right by the creek. Shelia and Larry’s place is a hidden gem for nature lovers.

Nicholas

September 2025

26 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to 30A Bay Hideaway

This was such an incredible spot! It was private with gorgeous views and very conveniently located. We had such a great time relaxing and would definitely come back! The hosts were very responsive and accommodating as well

Camp spot in relation to the pavilion. We were able to run a 100 ft extension cord down from the pavilion to both of the tent and plug in fans. However, the weather was great so we didn't really need them.

J

Jess

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Larry & Sheila's Blackwater Getaway

What an incredible trip! The campsite was so spacious and very private. We were the only group over the weekend, so it was very secluded. The amenities were awesome! We spend most of our time hanging out around under the pavilion, sitting by the fire pit, and fishing in the river. Larry and Sheila stopped by to check on us on the second day and recommended some great fishing spots and bait! They were so incredibly kind. We will definitely be coming back!

J

James

August 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With kids

2 nights at Larry & Sheila's Blackwater Getaway

These two are just great good hearted people. Very clean place, grass cut, shower and toilet is always clean and well stocked as well You can rest assured Larry or Shelia one will come by and check to make sure you are well taken care of

Liz

July 2025

Tent

With kids

4 nights at Larry & Sheila's Blackwater Getaway

Reserved entire site for four nights. The cabin was immaculate with icy cold AC, a short walk from the riverbank. Easy RV hook ups. Plenty of large and small tent spots on level ground w shade. Hosts were completely approachable and friendly. And of course, the river was so much fun.

J

James

July 2025

27 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Larry & Sheila's Blackwater Getaway

This is the Best camping site around great host beautiful campsites.

J

James

July 2025

26 ft travel trailer

With kids

2 nights at Larry & Sheila's Blackwater Getaway

Great place Swimming creek Everything you need right there

J

Jamie

July 2025

26 ft travel trailer

3 nights at 30A Bay Hideaway

This is our absolute favorite HipCamp. Beautiful and private location. We never want to leave each time that we stay here. It is a little piece of paradise.

Kiri

July 2025

27 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Larry & Sheila's Blackwater Getaway

Wel always enjoy this place! It never disappoints.

J

Jay

July 2025

24 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to 30A Bay Hideaway

We loved camping here because it’s right on the water and quiet, yet 9 min from Publix! Easy to park our full size truck and 24’ camper.

W

Winnie

July 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Larry & Sheila's Blackwater Getaway

My Favorite Campsite Ever! Shela and Larry are Awesome host and pretty darn good cooks as well! Thank you for having me once again!

Nearby public parks

Browse national and state parks near Destin

Conecuh National Forest

Carolina, Alabama

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Destin with horseback riding guide

Where to go

Emerald Coast

Sandy beaches and turquoise waters stretch along Florida’s aptly nicknamed Emerald Coast. East of Destin, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park and Grayton Beach State Park have popular coastal campgrounds, or you can head inland to hike, bike, and horseback ride in the Point Washington State Forest. A little further, check into an RV resort at Panama City Beach and enjoy water sports along the Grand Lagoon.

Gulf Islands

West of Destin, scenic barrier islands stretch all the way to the Alabama border. You can hike to coastal marshes and pristine beaches, then pitch your tent right on the sand at the Gulf Islands National Seashore. Or, seek out a secluded beach or fishing spot along Okaloosa or Santa Rosa islands.

Okaloosa County

Coastal parks, campgrounds, and boat launches pepper the shores of Choctawhatchee Bay, north of Destin. Heading inland, the rambling woodlands of Blackwater River State Forest provide plenty of opportunities for hiking, canoeing, and fishing, along with a choice of campgrounds.

When to go

Summer is peak season in Destin, when temperatures soar into the high 80s°F, and prices shoot up accordingly. Opt for a spring or fall visit to avoid the crowds—it will still be warm enough to hit the beach, and you can benefit from shoulder-season rates too. Many campgrounds stay open year-round, but be aware that seasonal activities and services may close down over winter.

Know before you go

Destin has plenty of supermarkets, restaurants, and gas stations, and you’ll find several shops selling camping and outdoor supplies.
Day-use fees apply in all Florida state parks, as well as campsite booking fees.
Stingrays are common in the Gulf from May through October, so take care when swimming, and always follow warning flags and local advice. Bug spray is equally a must for coastal camping.