The best camping near St. Andrews State Park

Near Panama City, St. Andrews State Park draws visitors to its white sands and emerald green waters. With the Gulf of Mexico on one side and St. Andrews Bay on the other, it’s a top spot for watersports, especially swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and even surfing. Two fishing piers, a jetty, and a boat ramp provide opportunities for anglers, while two nature trails wind through diverse coastal plants, providing the opportunity to spot some of the migratory birds and butterflies that pass through. You can also look for alligators at the Gator Lake Trail and Overlook. A 60-site campground is situated in the pinewoods near Grand Lagoon.

1. Reservations can be made at the Florida State Parks website or by phone. Florida residents can make campsite reservations 11 months in advance, while non-residents can make reservations 10 months in advance.
2. As this is a very popular park, booking in advance is recommended. Florida State Park campsites are almost always in high demand, so move quickly—many experienced Florida campers book their spots on the first day that bookings open up.
3. If you can’t secure your preferred dates, keep checking. Spots sometimes open up as others’ plans change.

Summer is the prime season for camping in this part of Florida. If you are planning a summer visit, try to make reservations as far in advance as possible. Otherwise, opting for spring or fall instead promises more availability and fewer crowds. With that said, the park is a great place to visit any time of year and does see many visitors year-round.

• Three park stores are open during the summer season (March to Labor Day).

• From Memorial Day to Labor Day, rangers host information talks at the campfire circle on Friday evenings.
• Water sports equipment, including canoes, kayaks, and snorkeling gear, can be rented in the park. 
• All pets must be on a six-foot leash and continuously attended. Pets are not allowed on the beach, wetlands, boardwalks, playground, or in any buildings.