The best forest glamping near Gulf Breeze, Florida

Gulf Breeze, a coastal suburb of Pensacola, offers campers four seasons of sunshine. Activities like sailing, snorkeling, paddle boarding, jet skiing, beachcombing, and strolling the Gulf Breeze pier are daily parts of life for those visiting the city. Book a fishing charter to catch swordfish, wahoo, mahi mahi, sailfish, and tuna. Back on land, explore nearby Blackwater River State Park to hike, kayak, and swim, or attend wildlife observation points at Naval Live Oaks Reservation. Then, take a trip to Santa Rosa Island to relax on secluded white-sand beaches. Many of the area’s top-rated RV parks and campgrounds can be found near these popular attractions. Year-round campsites near Gulf Breeze also feature convenient amenities like electric and water hookups and full restrooms.

98% (786)

Top-rated campgrounds

Gulf Breeze, a coastal suburb of Pensacola, offers campers four seasons of sunshine. Activities like sailing, snorkeling, paddle boarding, jet skiing, beachcombing, and strolling the Gulf Breeze pier are daily parts of life for those visiting the city. Book a fishing charter to catch swordfish, wahoo, mahi mahi, sailfish, and tuna. Back on land, explore nearby Blackwater River State Park to hike, kayak, and swim, or attend wildlife observation points at Naval Live Oaks Reservation. Then, take a trip to Santa Rosa Island to relax on secluded white-sand beaches. Many of the area’s top-rated RV parks and campgrounds can be found near these popular attractions. Year-round campsites near Gulf Breeze also feature convenient amenities like electric and water hookups and full restrooms.

98% (786)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Wandering Path

100%

(383)

33mi from Gulf Breeze · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Milton, FL

Located 20 minutes north of downtown Milton, FL, The Wandering Path is a serene escape, offering a unique blend of untouched natural beauty and comfortable accommodations. With 2000 feet of waterfront along the picturesque Coldwater Creek, this nature retreat is a world away from the hustle and bustle of city life, set within a sprawling 20-acre landscape. Accommodations at The Wandering Path are designed for those seeking a peaceful retreat. 4 glamping tents, equipped with real full-size beds, portable AC for summer, heaters for winter, and essential amenities, ensure a comfortable stay amidst nature. Each tent is adorned with solar string lights, and outdoor essentials like a picnic table, fire pit ring, small charcoal grill, and trash can are provided. There is 1 RV site with 30 amp electric and water. For those who prefer a more raw connection with nature, 4 primitive campsites are available, each equipped with solar string lights, a fire pit ring, and a trash can. Guests have access to a centrally located bathhouse with two full bathrooms, ensuring comfort and convenience. There is an outdoor kitchen for all guests to use. There is no cookware, silverware or dishes. There is a counter-top oven, toaster, 2 stove top burners, 1 flat top griddle, sink and keurig coffee maker. There are reusable k-cups for you to put your own coffee in, or your own k-cups. The property boasts 2000 feet of trails alongside the creek, perfect for hiking and exploring the natural surroundings. Kayak rentals are available for guests with appropriate vehicles, and fishing enthusiasts are welcome to cast their lines into the spring-fed creek. At The Wandering Path, nights come alive under a starlit sky, unblemished by city lights, making every evening perfect for a campfire. It’s more than just a stay; it’s an experience of tranquility, a chance to recharge amidst nature’s embrace. We look forward to becoming your go-to spot when you’re in need of recharging. We are less than 1 hour from Pensacola and Navarre beaches, 15-20 minutes to local grocery stores and restaurants. At this time, no pets or children under 12 are allowed in yurts. ***All pets do require prior approval to maintain the safety of other guests.

2. Bay Forest Retreat

96%

(362)

17mi from Gulf Breeze · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging · Navarre, FL

Explore 11+ acres of rustic and untamed woods. We are a military veteran family who enjoys the land as a place for family and friends to explore, camp, and relax at the 250+ feet of the East Bay beach. We do not have WiFi, but we do have 5g service throughout the 11 acre property. Our camping sites DO NOT have electricity These are hike-in only campsites ☺️ Primitive camping is permitted at designated wooded high grounds in the middle of the property. It is a 5 and 10-minute rugged hike in to the middle ground respectively. The trail remains under development, so please bring close-toed shoes or boots for hiking throughout the property (depending on rainfall, there may be mud and water). We have two primitive campsites these campsites are first come first serve, they are not assigned when booking. Plesea see pictures. Our Glamper tent is a 10x12 canvas furnished full size bed with bedding, pillows and enough floor space for two sleeping bags. The tens are located off a short trial, but rugged 2-minute hike from the parking area. We provide the opportunity to go camping without having to pack the tent. Closed toed shoes are highly suggested as well as plenty of lighting with batteries or solar charging capability. This is a rugged, fun and serene camping experience. Locates justminutes from the Emerald Coast - 7 mins to Navarre Beach, - 30 mins to Pensacola Beach, - 15 mins to Naval Live Oaks, - 45 mins to Fort Pickens, - 50 mins to NAS Pensacola, - 45 mins to Santa Rosa Island, - 35 mins to Okaloosa Island, - 40 mins to Destin. Recommended local restaurants: St. Michael's Brewery which has rotating food trucks and is family friendly, Ye Olde Brothers Brewery, Dewey Destin’s, Andy D's on Navarre Beach, Stripe's Pub, Johnny Huston's, Windjammers, TC’s Front Porch, Deb’s Coffee, The Eatery food truck park, Top’s Burgers, and New York Pizza Depot. Other sightseeing in the area includes: Museums: National Naval Aviation Museum, Air Force Armament Museum, Fort Pickens, Indian Temple Mound Museum, Pensacola Museum of Art, Museum of Industry, and Destin History & Fishing Museum Additional activities include: Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center, HH Arts Gallery, Emerald Coast Science Center, Gulf Breeze Zoo, and Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park.

3. Gateway Trails

99%

(117)

38mi from Gulf Breeze · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Holt, FL

🌲 Gateway Trails – Wooded, Gated & Peaceful Getaway Welcome to Gateway Trails, a 14-acre gated and wooded campground bordering Blackwater River State Forest—your basecamp for North Florida’s best rivers, trails, and beaches. Whether you’re tent camping, van traveling, or bringing your RV, you’ll find spacious, private, and well-maintained sites surrounded by pines and native forest. 🦌 Enjoy both forest and coast — explore the creeks, canoe routes, and hiking trails of Blackwater River State Forest, or head 45 minutes south to the Emerald Coast beaches of Destin, Navarre, and Okaloosa Island. 🏕️ Campsites • 3 Full Hook-Up RV Sites – Water, electric & sewer (1 × 50 AMP, 2 × 30 AMP) • Water & Electric Site – Ideal for smaller RVs or vans • Tent/Car/Van Site – With water & electric hookup • Boondocking Site – Dry camping; dump station available ($10 fee) • Primitive Tent Site – Quiet, secluded forest spot 🚿 Amenities • 🧺 Washhouse – Full bathroom with shower, flush toilet & coin washer/dryer • 🚰 Dump Station – $10 use fee • 🚗 Secure Gated Entry for guest privacy • 🌐 Wi-Fi (spotty in some wooded areas) • 🐾 Pet Friendly – Off-leash time possible with host coordination • 🥾 ½-Mile Trail – On-site hiking & biking loop 📍 Location Highlights 3 mi → Baker or Holt for groceries & restaurants 7 min → I-10 Holt Exit 45 1.9 mi → Bone Creek Recreation Area 5 mi → Blackwater River access (via dirt road) 35–50 mi → Destin / Pensacola / Pensacola Beach Convenient stop for travelers from TX, LA, AL, or GA en route to Tampa or Walt Disney World! 🌿 Sounds of Nature Gateway Trails is a peaceful setting, but you may hear the friendly chorus of nearby farm life—donkeys braying, roosters crowing, cows mooing, or the occasional dog announcing deer in the forest. It’s all part of the charm of country camping! 🧺 Washhouse Courtesy & Cleanliness The washhouse is a shared courtesy space for all campers. Cleanliness and respect are mandatory. No one cleans up after you. Failure to follow rules may result in loss of access or removal without refund. Please ensure you’re aligned with our washhouse expectations before booking. 🌐 Find Us 📸 gatewaytrails850.com 📱 Instagram: @gatewaytrails850 💬 Facebook: Gateway Trails

4. Splash RV Resort and Waterpark

21mi from Gulf Breeze · 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.

5. Malakai 🏕 different by design

98%

(85)

11mi from Gulf Breeze · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Dickerson City, FL

Welcome to Malakai campgrounds different by design 🏕 I purchased this land several years ago after a loss of a child a daughter her named was (little jo) JoLisa Marie Roadcap , it was a life changing moment, teaching me that family and enjoying of life is what it all about... so I want to welcome you here to Malakai for a peaceful and relaxing time, it's even a place that may help you heal from life hardships... At 5:30 just as the Sun comes up it is time for you to go out on to the deck and listen to the birds song 🎵 . As the Sun starts to rise on a new day ✨️ dozens of species of birds from the Great American Bald Eagle , To the endangered woodpecker, The blue herrings, bluebirds(we have mating pair that comes every year) blue jays, mocking birds, doves and several other species and occasionally a couple small black bears like walking through, we want you to have a peaceful and relaxing stay here while you visit everything,here at Garson Point were several species of carnivorous plants grow wild and our beaches have much to offer. It's official -- after 4 years of politics we are officially a park and a preserve.....9 acres of 🚶‍♂️ trails 👣 we are still constructing trails by hand I believe this place has a spiritual strength to people of all nations History of our location Count De Galvez awarded a land grant on Garcon Point to Antonio Garzon following his 1781 Siege of Pensacola in consideration of “his good services rendered as an interpreter to the Indians of Pensacola." The grant was held for 35 years before Maria Garzon, who survived husband Antonio, sold the land they called Garzon’s Point to Joseph (Jose) Bonifay. The land uses were favorable for cattle grazing and turpentining through the 1800s. Many more pioneer families moved into the area and began their own business in the booming industrial opportunities of western Florida. It came to be known as Yellow River Marsh State Buffer Preserve on June 12, 2000, when it was purchased by the state of Florida to protect rare and environmentally sensitive lands, plants and animals. Through generous donations, Preservation 2000 and the Florida Forever Program, more land was added to protect contiguous habitat of the Garcon Ecosystem. Today Yellow River Marsh Preserve State Park provides recreational opportunities for hiking and nature study along the Great Florida Birding Trail among rare and endemic plant species and within one of Florida’s oldest multi-cultural frontiers.The preserve is located in Santa Rosa County on Garcon Point, which separates Escambia Bay from Blackwater Bay. Nearly 20 rare and endangered species of plants 🪴 and animals make their homes along the bay and its wet prairies, dome swamps and flatwoods.

6. The Red Barn

96%

(28)

49mi from Gulf Breeze · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Crestview, FL

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!

7. Sandy Creek Resort

100%

(5)

26mi from Gulf Breeze · 1 site · Lodging · Elberta, AL

Nesteled in nature on few acres in the valley of Sandy Creek. Our healing center offers accommodation, restorative yoga, deep meditations and breath work, magical sound baths and Icebath. Property has ample trails to wonder around to star-gaze or just connect with mother Earth bare foot. Beautiful deep creek offers kayaking, paddle boarding, rope swing or fishing. Our Glamping Yurt sleep maximum of 4 peple, has Heat and Air conditioning, Refrigerator, coffee maker, Wifi and blue tooth speaker. It is very Dreamy, you will love it.

8. The Juicebox

40mi from Gulf Breeze · 1 site · Lodging · Fairhope, AL

Vintage 1979 Boler Caravan on Fairhope Farm Unique fiberglass "egg" camper sleeps 4, perfect for families! Restored with A/C, outdoor shower with hot water, amp, private restroom, and WiFi. Peaceful working farm setting minutes from downtown Fairhope. Experience authentic rural Alabama with modern comfort. Stargazing, farm views & unforgettable glamping memories await! The space This beautiful escape from reality is ideal with couples or families with small children. The couch converts into a bunk bed, the top bunk is rated for 80 pounds. Keep in mind the full size bed is fft long so be mindful if you are tall. There are common area toilets and sinks about 100ft from the camp site and set up with an outdoor shower used by the juice box camper only for complete privacy. There is a functional sink, mini fridge, kettle, toaster oven, etc. inside the camper for easy quick meals. We kindly ask all other items be cooked outside. This unique stay is ideal for adventurous people who like quiet, private locations but are still close to modern convenience like our delicious restaurants in downtown Fairhope and beautiful white sandy beach in Gulf Shores. Get the best of both worlds at The Juice Box! Guest access Enjoy the scenery and private space this campsite provides. Please keep in mind this is an active farm so we must request no roaming into crop fields or equipment storage areas.

Camper favorites near Gulf Breeze

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Splash RV Resort and Waterpark

21mi from Gulf Breeze · 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.

Malakai 🏕 different by design

98%

(85)

11mi from Gulf Breeze · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Dickerson City, FL

Welcome to Malakai campgrounds different by design 🏕 I purchased this land several years ago after a loss of a child a daughter her named was (little jo) JoLisa Marie Roadcap , it was a life changing moment, teaching me that family and enjoying of life is what it all about... so I want to welcome you here to Malakai for a peaceful and relaxing time, it's even a place that may help you heal from life hardships... At 5:30 just as the Sun comes up it is time for you to go out on to the deck and listen to the birds song 🎵 . As the Sun starts to rise on a new day ✨️ dozens of species of birds from the Great American Bald Eagle , To the endangered woodpecker, The blue herrings, bluebirds(we have mating pair that comes every year) blue jays, mocking birds, doves and several other species and occasionally a couple small black bears like walking through, we want you to have a peaceful and relaxing stay here while you visit everything,here at Garson Point were several species of carnivorous plants grow wild and our beaches have much to offer. It's official -- after 4 years of politics we are officially a park and a preserve.....9 acres of 🚶‍♂️ trails 👣 we are still constructing trails by hand I believe this place has a spiritual strength to people of all nations History of our location Count De Galvez awarded a land grant on Garcon Point to Antonio Garzon following his 1781 Siege of Pensacola in consideration of “his good services rendered as an interpreter to the Indians of Pensacola." The grant was held for 35 years before Maria Garzon, who survived husband Antonio, sold the land they called Garzon’s Point to Joseph (Jose) Bonifay. The land uses were favorable for cattle grazing and turpentining through the 1800s. Many more pioneer families moved into the area and began their own business in the booming industrial opportunities of western Florida. It came to be known as Yellow River Marsh State Buffer Preserve on June 12, 2000, when it was purchased by the state of Florida to protect rare and environmentally sensitive lands, plants and animals. Through generous donations, Preservation 2000 and the Florida Forever Program, more land was added to protect contiguous habitat of the Garcon Ecosystem. Today Yellow River Marsh Preserve State Park provides recreational opportunities for hiking and nature study along the Great Florida Birding Trail among rare and endemic plant species and within one of Florida’s oldest multi-cultural frontiers.The preserve is located in Santa Rosa County on Garcon Point, which separates Escambia Bay from Blackwater Bay. Nearly 20 rare and endangered species of plants 🪴 and animals make their homes along the bay and its wet prairies, dome swamps and flatwoods.

The Red Barn

96%

(28)

49mi from Gulf Breeze · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Crestview, FL

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!

Sandy Creek Resort

100%

(5)

26mi from Gulf Breeze · 1 site · Lodging · Elberta, AL

Nesteled in nature on few acres in the valley of Sandy Creek. Our healing center offers accommodation, restorative yoga, deep meditations and breath work, magical sound baths and Icebath. Property has ample trails to wonder around to star-gaze or just connect with mother Earth bare foot. Beautiful deep creek offers kayaking, paddle boarding, rope swing or fishing. Our Glamping Yurt sleep maximum of 4 peple, has Heat and Air conditioning, Refrigerator, coffee maker, Wifi and blue tooth speaker. It is very Dreamy, you will love it.

The Juicebox

40mi from Gulf Breeze · 1 site · Lodging · Fairhope, AL

Vintage 1979 Boler Caravan on Fairhope Farm Unique fiberglass "egg" camper sleeps 4, perfect for families! Restored with A/C, outdoor shower with hot water, amp, private restroom, and WiFi. Peaceful working farm setting minutes from downtown Fairhope. Experience authentic rural Alabama with modern comfort. Stargazing, farm views & unforgettable glamping memories await! The space This beautiful escape from reality is ideal with couples or families with small children. The couch converts into a bunk bed, the top bunk is rated for 80 pounds. Keep in mind the full size bed is fft long so be mindful if you are tall. There are common area toilets and sinks about 100ft from the camp site and set up with an outdoor shower used by the juice box camper only for complete privacy. There is a functional sink, mini fridge, kettle, toaster oven, etc. inside the camper for easy quick meals. We kindly ask all other items be cooked outside. This unique stay is ideal for adventurous people who like quiet, private locations but are still close to modern convenience like our delicious restaurants in downtown Fairhope and beautiful white sandy beach in Gulf Shores. Get the best of both worlds at The Juice Box! Guest access Enjoy the scenery and private space this campsite provides. Please keep in mind this is an active farm so we must request no roaming into crop fields or equipment storage areas.

Stories from the community

Baking biscuits with the dry heat method on my coleman stove.

S

Scarlett

2 weeks ago

1 night at Bay Forest Retreat

Secluded and private getaway from the norm. My fiance and I slept really hard. The host was super nice & helpful!

J

Jamie

3 weeks ago

With kids

2 nights at The Wandering Path

Our family rented out 2 yurts for our sons birthday and we had an amazing time! Amanda was attentive and kind (as was her sweet fur baby, Bella) Our yurt was clean and well maintained. We had everything we needed to make our "glamping" trip a success and we look forward to making more memories there soon!

Even though it was pretty hot out, we HAD to make a campfire for s'mores!

P

Peggy

3 weeks ago

2 nights at The Wandering Path

Absolutely beautiful location white sand bar cold water creek steps away from camp site . Definitely will return!!!!

S

Sarah

3 weeks ago

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Sandy Creek Resort

The place was absolutely fantastic. We really enjoyed the yurt, the hot tub, kayaks, the goats, the list goes on and on. Would absolutely stay again!

T

Trixie

November 2025

1 night at The Wandering Path

I loved the welcome and the energy. The area was clean and the space felt private but not isolated. It felt communal in the common spaces but there was plenty of room to be alone.

A

Amanda

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Bay Forest Retreat

I loved this hidden gem! I was traveling and decided to call it a night and this spot was perfect for me. The host was extremely helpful and led me straight to the spot in the dark. I will be back! Thank you again, Hillary!

C

Claire

November 2025

Weekend Trip to The Wandering Path

We loved our experience. The yurt was clean, bed comfortable, and campsite quiet and perfect. We enjoyed walking to the sandbars and hiking the trail. The host communicated well- provided clear directions and checked in on us once we were settled in. We will definitely be back!

Haylee

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Bay Forest Retreat

The space was very secluded and clean. We would come again!

Malakai campgrounds different by design ⛺ 7176099494

Meg

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Malakai 🏕 different by design

As described a nice mix of technology and nature. The space is secure, simple and comfortable. The is plenty of running water. Property keepers are on site and friendly. They look out for your comfort and will turn on the AC, or locate other items for you as needed.

R

Rachel

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bay Forest Retreat

Great place to stay! It was quiet, clean, the tent smelled great which I don’t expect camping. It was just what I look for. Secluded enough to not be shoulder to shoulder but it had all the convenient amenities. We will be back!

A

Amaury

October 2025

2 nights at Bay Forest Retreat

Kids loved having their own tent. The parents got Glamper 1 and the boys got Glamper 2. Great setup. We will be coming back.

A

Amaury

October 2025

With kids

2 nights at Bay Forest Retreat

What a wonderful place tucked away next to the bay. Our host was very helpful and nice. 2 Adults and 3 kids stayed in both of the glamping tents. The camping experience by far was even more pleasant than we had imagined. Navarre beach and a several night at here will be something we do again. Bring your kayaks and explore the East Bay river. What a treasure!

J

Joyleigh

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Malakai 🏕 different by design

Joseph was attentive to our needs and made sure that we were comfortable. We had a great time at his campsite.

T

Tabitha

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Bay Forest Retreat

Everything was good. Bed was comfy. Fire pit, porta potty, a d water spigot were close. Would recommend to others and stay again.

Shelly

September 2025

Weekend Trip to The Wandering Path

The Wandering Path was a fabulous place to stay. Very relaxing environment with spaced out sites for privacy. There’s a communal kitchen area and the bathrooms were nice and well kept. We stayed in yurt #1 which was cozy and a short walk to the sandy waterfront. Amanda, the host was very friendly. Will visit again in the future.

M

Mare

September 2025

Weekend Trip to The Wandering Path

The Wandering Path is a wonderful experience. Amanda is a great host who always makes us feel welcomed. This is our 4th annual trip and we enjoy it more each time. The yurt is spacious & clean and the camp area is located near to the bathhouse and the creek. The creek was chilly and clear. It was another magical experience at the Wandering Path.

J

Jessica

September 2025

Weekend Trip to The Wandering Path

Amanda’s land was the perfect sweet retreat! With a trail and access to the river, the property was so fun to explore. Yurt #2 was so cozy, and the outside lights made it cute to sit out at night and enjoy my space. The bath house and kitchen were extra sweet perks! The perfect hidden gem in Milton ❤️

R

Rajesh

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Malakai 🏕 different by design

I could not make this trip due to work, will visit some time later.

J

Joseph

August 2025

With kids

1 night at Bay Forest Retreat

What a wonderful experience! This was the perfect introduction to camping for my three-year-old son and me. Even with hot weather and a rainy, chilly day, having the spacious canvas tent made everything smooth and enjoyable. A huge thank you to our co-host, Brooke, who was absolutely fantastic. Her quick and polite replies, along with her excellent customer service, really enhanced our stay. We even received a bonus night for Labor Day weekend, which was an awesome surprise.

J

Joseph

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bay Forest Retreat

This was the first time camping with our three-year-old son, and it was a wonderful experience for him and for us! He absolutely loved his first time seeing a campfire, and it was so special to experience that with him as a parent. The campgrounds were clean and well-maintained. We especially appreciated the provided tent, which was a fantastic touch. Communication with the landlord and manager was excellent; their responses were both respectful and quick. I highly recommend this spot!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best forest glamping near Gulf Breeze guide

Where to go

Blackwater River State Park

Blackwater River State Park is just 45 minutes away from Gulf Breeze. It features nature trails and interpretive exhibits as well as kayaking, paddling, birding, fishing, tubing, and bicycling. The area’s contiguous longleaf pine and wiregrass ecosystem is rare—even compared to tropical rainforests. Camping is allowed in the area in one on-site campground with 30 available spacious gravel campsites. There are also full hookups, and the campground can accommodate tents or RVs up to 35 feet.

Santa Rosa Island

A barrier island set within the emerald waters of Pensacola Bay, Choctawhatchee Sound, and Santa Rosa Sound, Santa Rosa Island features white sandy beaches that are popular for swimming and shore fishing. Pensacola Beach is the most popular beach on the island, and its restaurants and beach bars contribute to a fun day trip. While camping on the island isn’t permitted, nearby campsites, cabin rentals, and RV parks offer convenient amenities like full restrooms and nearby supply shops.

Big Lagoon State Park

Explore the saltwater tidal marshes and pine flatwoods of Big Lagoon State Park. Hike along the park’s lands to see wood warblers and sandpipers trails as it’s one of the stops on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. Or take a kayak out and paddle along the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Trail that also passes along the park’s shores. Camping is permitted on-site at RV and tent campsites—reservations are required. Most spots can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet. There are also ADA accessible campgrounds in the park.

When to go

Temperatures in Gulf Breeze range from the mid 80s during summer to the 50s in wintertime, making for a year-round climate that is great for camping during any season. The gulf breeze helps dispel humidity in summer, but bugs are prevalent in the area during warmer seasons. The area is also known for short rain showers, so bring rain gear.