The best big rig friendly camping in Florida Panhandle

·

Northwest Florida runs parallel to Alabama and toward Mississippi—but it packs the best of the state into one last handle. Quaint beach towns, verdant parks, and diverse forests cover the region. You can start your camping trip south of Tallahassee and stretch your legs during a hike along a Florida National Scenic Trail. Or, when the Sunshine State’s sunshine emerges in full force, take a dip at Panama City Beach. No matter where you go, you’re in good company, thanks to the Panhandle’s white sand beaches, nature preserves, and, oh yeah, the Gulf of Mexico shoreline.

94% (433)

Top-rated campgrounds

The Outside Inn

1. The Outside Inn

99%
(233)
9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Quincy, FL
Planted pine, orchard, untouched wetlands, walking trails, planted fields for wildlife viewing. Quiet and peaceful escape. Close to several state parks, including Torreya, Three rivers, Seminole, Florida Caverns, and Lake Talaquin forest. At this time I can host 1 RV or camper with full hook ups, 3 RV sites with power, water and 1 boondock (no power/water) site but large enough for an off-grid/self-sustainable RV. I'm always happy to show folks around and share the story. Please note: During the rainy season the grass may get a bit long at times. You can also expect to experience a wide variety of agricultural activities, outside of quiet hours of course. Born out of a dream that started 10 years ago when I acquired 40 acres of forgotten and unmanaged rural woods. Having dug right in with the help of the Florida Forestry Service, FWC, IFAS, NRCS and a very knowledgeable private forester; we developed a conservation management plan to restore it to its native state. The neighboring land became available and happily added another 40, I've learned so much on this amazing journey. 25K pines and a great deal of sweat equity later, it is time to share and encourage others to join in on the conservation efforts and make sure it's around for future generations.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$25
 / night
Suwannee River Rendezvous

3. Suwannee River Rendezvous

100%
(3)
144 sites · Tents, RVs · Mayo, FL
Frank Page purchased the Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort & Campground in 2008 which included the original seven acres of the lower portion of the Rendezvous. At that time there were only a few buildings and the primitive campground area. Frank started cleaning the area and stabilizing all the buildings. In 2009 another 20 acres was purchased, which is now considered the upper area of the Rendezvous. In 2010, another seven acres were added to the property. Frank planned and constructed the Upper Rendezvous area which was completed in 2012 and added 136 RV sites as well as the dog park, barn and pigeon coop. The dog park has five sections, for both small and large dogs, with ample room to run. Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort & Campground Pool Frank began raising pigeons in 2012. The first pigeons purchased were homing pigeons, which started the Pigeon Races that are still a fun, family favorite event on Saturday afternoons. Frank also bought and started raising other pigeons, the Birmingham Roller. Birmingham Rollers are a very popular breed of domesticated pigeons that originated in Birmingham, England, where they were developed via selective breeding for their ability to do rapid backward somersaults while flying. You can often see them flying around the Upper Rendezvous in the mornings and afternoons. These pigeons are used for our weekly Pigeon Races.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$30
 / night
FloridaBlueSky Camp Sites

6. FloridaBlueSky Camp Sites

87%
(27)
4 sites · RVs · Perry, FL
This is the beautiful wild coast of Florida's "Big Bend." Located halfway between Perry to the north and Steinhatchee to the south, Keaton Beach is an outpost town with a laidback, relaxing atmosphere. No motels, no fast food. The wild, natural public beach has a shaded picnic area, restrooms, a boat ramp and a 700-foot fishing pier. These are prime scalloping waters from mid to late summer, and the area is famous for year-round fishing. We recently bought this property with an old hunting cabin owned by a well known baseball coach. The cabin is currently transformed into a residence. We have 4 RV spots available in the front of the property.. Only an 8 minute drive to the sandy swimming beach of Keaton Beach (see pic above) or 20 min walking distance to Adams Sunset Beach. Stop by on your way to South Florida or up north. We do not have a maximum stay.. We have 50/30 and 15 amp sites available. 2 back it, 1 drive in, 1 pull through site. 2 sites are full hook up, 1 site 50 amp electric and water. 1 site 20 amp electric only. If you see "occupied" in the calendar we probably still have sites available. (we have a total of 4) Just contact us using a "free" day. What can you do in our area? Keaton Beach swimming area, fishing, legally ATV riding on miles of dirt roads, golf carts allowed on public streets, nature trails for hiking and bird watching, Hagen Cove Park is one of the darkest spots in Florida for stars watching, dinner at the Nowhere Grill with the famous Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich, a day trip to Tallahassee with the Railroad Square ( 55 min ) Lafayette Blue Springs State Park (40 min ), St. Marks Lighthouse (55 min )
Pets
Full Hookups
from 
$39
 / night
Seashell Hideaway

10. Seashell Hideaway

5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Perry, FL
Seashell Hideaway – Coastal Nature Escape | RV, Tent, Cabin Perry and Keaton Beach, Florida Welcome to Seashell Hideaway, a quiet coastal retreat just a short walk from Adams Beach. You can reach the water in three to five minutes on foot, or even faster by bike. It feels almost like having your own private beach nearby. A friendly local beach bar is also close, perfect for grabbing food or a drink while watching the sunset. Our property includes two RV sites, one tent site, and one tiny cabin. Each area offers space, privacy, and open sky. The setting is calm and breezy, surrounded by palms, wildlife, and fresh Gulf air—a simple and peaceful place to relax. RV Sites Both RV spots offer easy pull-in access, power and water hookups, space for chairs, a fire pit, and quick access to Adams Beach and the nearby bar. They are ideal for weekend stays, fishing trips, or longer visits. Tent Site A natural, quiet location great for solo travelers or couples. Stargazing is excellent, and the morning light is beautiful. It’s perfect for anyone seeking a relaxed coastal camping experience. Tiny Cabin A small and comfortable hideaway with air conditioning, electricity, a bed, a porch, and easy parking. It’s ideal for guests who want a simple stay near the beach while still enjoying basic comforts. Nearby Adams Beach is only a few minutes away on foot. Keaton Beach is a short drive, offering fishing, boat ramps, kayaking areas, calm water, local seafood, and a true old-Florida atmosphere. The location is especially popular during scallop season. We keep everything friendly, clean, and easy. Guests have privacy but we are always available if needed. Seashell Hideaway is a peaceful place to slow down, walk to the water, enjoy quiet nights, and experience the coast in a simple, relaxing way.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$20
 / night
Port Saint Joe RV Resort

11. Port Saint Joe RV Resort

85%
(10)
75 sites · Tents, RVs · Port Saint Joe, FL
For those who have visited Port St Joe before, this will be no surprise, but for those just discovering it for the first time, welcome. You have found an RV Resort that few people know about, situated on the Gulf Coast, with brand-new RV sites and modern amenities.Port Saint Joe is minutes south of Mexico Beach, without all of the crowds, and a short drive north of Indian Pass. This makes our RV park Florida’s best alternative to a Mexico Beach RV Resort or Florida’s Cape San Blas area.Sugar white sands, beautiful Florida sunshine, seafood restaurants, and stunning views of the bay make Port St Joe RV Resort the best place for monthly reservations with full hookups and cable TV.Relax on soft, white-sand dune beaches, go snorkeling on the Gulf Coast, or go fishing at a local, rustic fish shack. The local area also provides an educational and even inspirational peek into the state’s early past all from a Mexico Beach RV Resort located minutes south in the beautiful area of Port St Joe, Florida.Gift and antique stores, bistros, vest-pocket parks, vast greenways, and an appealing waterfront marina make up this tiny, easily accessible downtown. Not to mention, you have easy access to some of the best seafood in the nation!If you are looking for an RV park on the Gulf Coast that has easy access to St Joseph Bay and has fun for the whole family, there is no better place to make a reservation. Few things can beat an RV park that is situated directly south of Mexico Beach and offers an RV site you’ll love.At our Mexico Beach RV Park in Port Saint Joe, you’ll stay entertained and comfortable during your stay with Wi-Fi at your RV site and let your cares melt away. Contact us today and book your reservation!
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$56
 / night
Hidden Cypress Farm LLC, Campground

16. Hidden Cypress Farm LLC, Campground

100%
(44)
7 sites · Tents, RVs · Cottondale, FL
Hello all! Please contact us for extended stay. Also we are super excited we will be adding new sites and glamping tents this year, we will have a 5th wheel that can be rented on a beautiful private site. We will be adding a tree house too! Also this year there will be golf carts to rent to ride all our trails. Hope to see you this year!! ****BATHROOMS, SHOWER AND LAUNDRY NOW OPEN*** 100 Beautiful acres, over 5 miles of walking/golf cart trails, whether you considered stopping for a night or staying longer HCF loves our guest. Some stay over on the way to the beach or southern Florida and revisit on their way back home and even some end up staying for a couple of days when they are surprised at all there is to do. Also inquire about snowbirding or a possible work camp opportunity. Please plan on visiting and check out all the great things to do so close. On our farm we grow Christmas Tress, have 2 beautiful cypress ponds full of waterfowl and fish. Also there are green lanes and fields and if your lucky you can catch site or deer, turkeys, all sorts of birds maybe even a cute baby armadillo. In just over 45 minutes you can be playing on the beach in Panama City Beach, (world’s most beautiful beaches). Something a little different is just a few minutes away Falling Waters state park (Florida's tallest waterfall) and a swimming hole with walking trails. Speaking of swimming Ponce De Leon spring is big and beautiful clear blue hole spring to the west. Or go east to Marriana, about the same distance and you can visit Florida Caverns (Florida's only touring cave) with a beautiful spring with swimming, and hiking there too. We have guest also go to the Econfina Springs and canoe rental and spend a day floating the beautiful Ecofina River with 8 springs to visit on a days float. There are many State parks so close. If you want to go out to eat or socialize a local brewery and restaurants are very close and beautiful Alabama too! We are super easy to visit if you are coming from the north out of Dothan are on Interstate 10 we are just Located 1.4 miles North of Interstate right on Hwy 231. Easy access to the interstate, fuel and shopping. The farm is gated with a remote controlled gate for security. All our RV sites have full hook ups with 15, 30, and 50 amp connections, great clean water and sewer at each site. Also a dump station on the property. We are currently working on a bath house with laundry facilities will be ready by the fall of 23. a total of 4 sites on 100 acres (with a couple of more in the works with some tent site on the horizon too) you are sure to be able to find a quiet place. So if you would enjoy visiting our beautiful getaway we would love to have you and we strive to show all our guest how much we appreciate them visiting. If you love the outdoors, God and all the great things he has placed here for us to enjoy and a little time to relax please give us a shot and visit our tree farm "Come watch us grow family memories" PLEASE NOTE; OUR GATE CLOSES AT 7PM, IF YOUR GOING TO BE LATER THAN THAT YOU MUST MAKE PRIOR ARRANGEMENTS. WE DO NOT ANSWER THE PHONE AFTER 7. THANKS Thanks Daryl and Nancy
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$29
 / night
Splash RV Resort and Waterpark

18. Splash RV Resort and Waterpark

53 sites · RVs, Lodging · Milton, FL
Discover a truly unique camping experience at Splash RV Resort, where you can enjoy a full-service RV getaway just moments from the beach, complemented by a thrilling water park that offers fun for both kids and adults. Our RV sites are designed to provide an exceptional stay for discerning travelers. With over 280 spacious sites available, guests can relish in the comfort and privacy that our campground offers. The smooth, all-concrete roads and sites are meticulously crafted to keep your RV in excellent condition, ensuring a hassle-free experience. For your convenience, we offer pull-thru sites that make access and setup a breeze. Our resort is also big rig friendly, featuring accommodations and amenities tailored specifically for larger RVs. Whether you're planning a weekend escape or an extended vacation, Splash RV Resort guarantees a blend of comfort, convenience, and a touch of luxury, all while being close to nearby attractions such as natural wonders, swimming holes, outdoor activities, restaurants, and shops.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$99
 / night

Northwest Florida runs parallel to Alabama and toward Mississippi—but it packs the best of the state into one last handle. Quaint beach towns, verdant parks, and diverse forests cover the region. You can start your camping trip south of Tallahassee and stretch your legs during a hike along a Florida National Scenic Trail. Or, when the Sunshine State’s sunshine emerges in full force, take a dip at Panama City Beach. No matter where you go, you’re in good company, thanks to the Panhandle’s white sand beaches, nature preserves, and, oh yeah, the Gulf of Mexico shoreline.

94% (433)

Top-rated campgrounds

The Outside Inn

1. The Outside Inn

99%
(233)
9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Quincy, FL
Planted pine, orchard, untouched wetlands, walking trails, planted fields for wildlife viewing. Quiet and peaceful escape. Close to several state parks, including Torreya, Three rivers, Seminole, Florida Caverns, and Lake Talaquin forest. At this time I can host 1 RV or camper with full hook ups, 3 RV sites with power, water and 1 boondock (no power/water) site but large enough for an off-grid/self-sustainable RV. I'm always happy to show folks around and share the story. Please note: During the rainy season the grass may get a bit long at times. You can also expect to experience a wide variety of agricultural activities, outside of quiet hours of course. Born out of a dream that started 10 years ago when I acquired 40 acres of forgotten and unmanaged rural woods. Having dug right in with the help of the Florida Forestry Service, FWC, IFAS, NRCS and a very knowledgeable private forester; we developed a conservation management plan to restore it to its native state. The neighboring land became available and happily added another 40, I've learned so much on this amazing journey. 25K pines and a great deal of sweat equity later, it is time to share and encourage others to join in on the conservation efforts and make sure it's around for future generations.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$25
 / night
Suwannee River Rendezvous

3. Suwannee River Rendezvous

100%
(3)
144 sites · Tents, RVs · Mayo, FL
Frank Page purchased the Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort & Campground in 2008 which included the original seven acres of the lower portion of the Rendezvous. At that time there were only a few buildings and the primitive campground area. Frank started cleaning the area and stabilizing all the buildings. In 2009 another 20 acres was purchased, which is now considered the upper area of the Rendezvous. In 2010, another seven acres were added to the property. Frank planned and constructed the Upper Rendezvous area which was completed in 2012 and added 136 RV sites as well as the dog park, barn and pigeon coop. The dog park has five sections, for both small and large dogs, with ample room to run. Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort & Campground Pool Frank began raising pigeons in 2012. The first pigeons purchased were homing pigeons, which started the Pigeon Races that are still a fun, family favorite event on Saturday afternoons. Frank also bought and started raising other pigeons, the Birmingham Roller. Birmingham Rollers are a very popular breed of domesticated pigeons that originated in Birmingham, England, where they were developed via selective breeding for their ability to do rapid backward somersaults while flying. You can often see them flying around the Upper Rendezvous in the mornings and afternoons. These pigeons are used for our weekly Pigeon Races.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$30
 / night
FloridaBlueSky Camp Sites

6. FloridaBlueSky Camp Sites

87%
(27)
4 sites · RVs · Perry, FL
This is the beautiful wild coast of Florida's "Big Bend." Located halfway between Perry to the north and Steinhatchee to the south, Keaton Beach is an outpost town with a laidback, relaxing atmosphere. No motels, no fast food. The wild, natural public beach has a shaded picnic area, restrooms, a boat ramp and a 700-foot fishing pier. These are prime scalloping waters from mid to late summer, and the area is famous for year-round fishing. We recently bought this property with an old hunting cabin owned by a well known baseball coach. The cabin is currently transformed into a residence. We have 4 RV spots available in the front of the property.. Only an 8 minute drive to the sandy swimming beach of Keaton Beach (see pic above) or 20 min walking distance to Adams Sunset Beach. Stop by on your way to South Florida or up north. We do not have a maximum stay.. We have 50/30 and 15 amp sites available. 2 back it, 1 drive in, 1 pull through site. 2 sites are full hook up, 1 site 50 amp electric and water. 1 site 20 amp electric only. If you see "occupied" in the calendar we probably still have sites available. (we have a total of 4) Just contact us using a "free" day. What can you do in our area? Keaton Beach swimming area, fishing, legally ATV riding on miles of dirt roads, golf carts allowed on public streets, nature trails for hiking and bird watching, Hagen Cove Park is one of the darkest spots in Florida for stars watching, dinner at the Nowhere Grill with the famous Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich, a day trip to Tallahassee with the Railroad Square ( 55 min ) Lafayette Blue Springs State Park (40 min ), St. Marks Lighthouse (55 min )
Pets
Full Hookups
from 
$39
 / night
Seashell Hideaway

10. Seashell Hideaway

5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Perry, FL
Seashell Hideaway – Coastal Nature Escape | RV, Tent, Cabin Perry and Keaton Beach, Florida Welcome to Seashell Hideaway, a quiet coastal retreat just a short walk from Adams Beach. You can reach the water in three to five minutes on foot, or even faster by bike. It feels almost like having your own private beach nearby. A friendly local beach bar is also close, perfect for grabbing food or a drink while watching the sunset. Our property includes two RV sites, one tent site, and one tiny cabin. Each area offers space, privacy, and open sky. The setting is calm and breezy, surrounded by palms, wildlife, and fresh Gulf air—a simple and peaceful place to relax. RV Sites Both RV spots offer easy pull-in access, power and water hookups, space for chairs, a fire pit, and quick access to Adams Beach and the nearby bar. They are ideal for weekend stays, fishing trips, or longer visits. Tent Site A natural, quiet location great for solo travelers or couples. Stargazing is excellent, and the morning light is beautiful. It’s perfect for anyone seeking a relaxed coastal camping experience. Tiny Cabin A small and comfortable hideaway with air conditioning, electricity, a bed, a porch, and easy parking. It’s ideal for guests who want a simple stay near the beach while still enjoying basic comforts. Nearby Adams Beach is only a few minutes away on foot. Keaton Beach is a short drive, offering fishing, boat ramps, kayaking areas, calm water, local seafood, and a true old-Florida atmosphere. The location is especially popular during scallop season. We keep everything friendly, clean, and easy. Guests have privacy but we are always available if needed. Seashell Hideaway is a peaceful place to slow down, walk to the water, enjoy quiet nights, and experience the coast in a simple, relaxing way.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$20
 / night
Port Saint Joe RV Resort

11. Port Saint Joe RV Resort

85%
(10)
75 sites · Tents, RVs · Port Saint Joe, FL
For those who have visited Port St Joe before, this will be no surprise, but for those just discovering it for the first time, welcome. You have found an RV Resort that few people know about, situated on the Gulf Coast, with brand-new RV sites and modern amenities.Port Saint Joe is minutes south of Mexico Beach, without all of the crowds, and a short drive north of Indian Pass. This makes our RV park Florida’s best alternative to a Mexico Beach RV Resort or Florida’s Cape San Blas area.Sugar white sands, beautiful Florida sunshine, seafood restaurants, and stunning views of the bay make Port St Joe RV Resort the best place for monthly reservations with full hookups and cable TV.Relax on soft, white-sand dune beaches, go snorkeling on the Gulf Coast, or go fishing at a local, rustic fish shack. The local area also provides an educational and even inspirational peek into the state’s early past all from a Mexico Beach RV Resort located minutes south in the beautiful area of Port St Joe, Florida.Gift and antique stores, bistros, vest-pocket parks, vast greenways, and an appealing waterfront marina make up this tiny, easily accessible downtown. Not to mention, you have easy access to some of the best seafood in the nation!If you are looking for an RV park on the Gulf Coast that has easy access to St Joseph Bay and has fun for the whole family, there is no better place to make a reservation. Few things can beat an RV park that is situated directly south of Mexico Beach and offers an RV site you’ll love.At our Mexico Beach RV Park in Port Saint Joe, you’ll stay entertained and comfortable during your stay with Wi-Fi at your RV site and let your cares melt away. Contact us today and book your reservation!
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$56
 / night
Hidden Cypress Farm LLC, Campground

16. Hidden Cypress Farm LLC, Campground

100%
(44)
7 sites · Tents, RVs · Cottondale, FL
Hello all! Please contact us for extended stay. Also we are super excited we will be adding new sites and glamping tents this year, we will have a 5th wheel that can be rented on a beautiful private site. We will be adding a tree house too! Also this year there will be golf carts to rent to ride all our trails. Hope to see you this year!! ****BATHROOMS, SHOWER AND LAUNDRY NOW OPEN*** 100 Beautiful acres, over 5 miles of walking/golf cart trails, whether you considered stopping for a night or staying longer HCF loves our guest. Some stay over on the way to the beach or southern Florida and revisit on their way back home and even some end up staying for a couple of days when they are surprised at all there is to do. Also inquire about snowbirding or a possible work camp opportunity. Please plan on visiting and check out all the great things to do so close. On our farm we grow Christmas Tress, have 2 beautiful cypress ponds full of waterfowl and fish. Also there are green lanes and fields and if your lucky you can catch site or deer, turkeys, all sorts of birds maybe even a cute baby armadillo. In just over 45 minutes you can be playing on the beach in Panama City Beach, (world’s most beautiful beaches). Something a little different is just a few minutes away Falling Waters state park (Florida's tallest waterfall) and a swimming hole with walking trails. Speaking of swimming Ponce De Leon spring is big and beautiful clear blue hole spring to the west. Or go east to Marriana, about the same distance and you can visit Florida Caverns (Florida's only touring cave) with a beautiful spring with swimming, and hiking there too. We have guest also go to the Econfina Springs and canoe rental and spend a day floating the beautiful Ecofina River with 8 springs to visit on a days float. There are many State parks so close. If you want to go out to eat or socialize a local brewery and restaurants are very close and beautiful Alabama too! We are super easy to visit if you are coming from the north out of Dothan are on Interstate 10 we are just Located 1.4 miles North of Interstate right on Hwy 231. Easy access to the interstate, fuel and shopping. The farm is gated with a remote controlled gate for security. All our RV sites have full hook ups with 15, 30, and 50 amp connections, great clean water and sewer at each site. Also a dump station on the property. We are currently working on a bath house with laundry facilities will be ready by the fall of 23. a total of 4 sites on 100 acres (with a couple of more in the works with some tent site on the horizon too) you are sure to be able to find a quiet place. So if you would enjoy visiting our beautiful getaway we would love to have you and we strive to show all our guest how much we appreciate them visiting. If you love the outdoors, God and all the great things he has placed here for us to enjoy and a little time to relax please give us a shot and visit our tree farm "Come watch us grow family memories" PLEASE NOTE; OUR GATE CLOSES AT 7PM, IF YOUR GOING TO BE LATER THAN THAT YOU MUST MAKE PRIOR ARRANGEMENTS. WE DO NOT ANSWER THE PHONE AFTER 7. THANKS Thanks Daryl and Nancy
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$29
 / night
Splash RV Resort and Waterpark

18. Splash RV Resort and Waterpark

53 sites · RVs, Lodging · Milton, FL
Discover a truly unique camping experience at Splash RV Resort, where you can enjoy a full-service RV getaway just moments from the beach, complemented by a thrilling water park that offers fun for both kids and adults. Our RV sites are designed to provide an exceptional stay for discerning travelers. With over 280 spacious sites available, guests can relish in the comfort and privacy that our campground offers. The smooth, all-concrete roads and sites are meticulously crafted to keep your RV in excellent condition, ensuring a hassle-free experience. For your convenience, we offer pull-thru sites that make access and setup a breeze. Our resort is also big rig friendly, featuring accommodations and amenities tailored specifically for larger RVs. Whether you're planning a weekend escape or an extended vacation, Splash RV Resort guarantees a blend of comfort, convenience, and a touch of luxury, all while being close to nearby attractions such as natural wonders, swimming holes, outdoor activities, restaurants, and shops.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$99
 / night

Camper favorites in and near Florida Panhandle

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Stories from the community

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best big rig friendly camping in Florida Panhandle guide

Where to go

Apalachicola National Forest

As the state’s largest national forest, Apalachicola National Forest caters to all kinds of campers, whether you’re looking to hike, bike, or hop on your horse. Pitch your tent alongside the Ochlockonee or Apalachicola River. Or, check in to a campsite with restrooms and picnic tables. The birdwatchers among you will flock to the flocks at the nearby Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve. 

State Forests

State forests crop up across the Panhandle. Tate’s Hell State Forest merges Florida’s various ecosystems into one fascinating landscape where campers can experience everything from wet prairie to forest to swamp, right from their Panhandle campsite. Further west, Point Washington State Forest likewise sits along the coast offering backcountry campsites. If you’d rather camp inland, Blackwater River State Forest boasts a namesake river—and a stream of activities.

Along The Coast

Beaches in the Panhandle range from Pensacola Beach, where sea turtles seasonally  nest, to Destin, whose clear waters claim the title of Florida’s best. If you’re not big on the water, don’t discount a coastal campground yet. State parks—like Henderson Beach State Park—also scatter the area. You can rent an RV campsite surrounded by longleaf pines. Or, listen to the sound of lapping waves from your tent site.  

When to go

In the summer, tourists crowd the Panhandle—for good reason. In July, temperatures run in the 80s, so if you’re an avid beachgoer, now is the time to swim to your heart’s content. The heat, however, may bring thunderstorms, so if you’re looking to hit both the beach and the trails, choose the shoulder months. The slightly cooler temperatures make forest and park explorations all the more enjoyable.