The Best Beaches in Florida for Camping

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Florida is virtually synonymous with tropical palms and sandy beaches. There are picnicking areas, ample parking opportunities, camp sites that may be right on the beaches themselves, and also plenty of opportunities to bring along all the comforts of home in an RV. If you are ready to soak up the rays of the sun or do some snorkeling in the Gulf of Mexico or the Atlantic Ocean, then the best beaches in Florida for camping are at your beck and call. Be careful to inquire about fishing restrictions and also occasional beach closures in some areas, especially during bird or turtle breeding seasons.

St. Andrews State Park

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Visit St. Andrews State Park and you have access to Panama City Beach. There you may enjoy saltwater fishing for sea trout and flounder, swimming, scuba diving, kayaking and also snorkeling in the Gulf of Mexico. On site concession stands make this a convenient last-minute getaway with a minimum need for planning and preparation, at least during the main camping season that runs from late March until Labor Day; thereafter the concessions are closed. RVs and tent campers are welcome to enjoy various camping sites at or near the beach. The nightly camping fee in 2009 is $28, which includes electricity for RVs.

St. Andrews State Park
4607 State Park Lane
Panama City, Florida 32408
(850) 233-5140

Bahia Honda State Park

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Enjoy the beauty of tropical sand beaches at Bahia Honda State Park. There are several beaches within the park, such as Calusa, Sandspur and Loggerhead. On site vendors provide boat tours on the Gulf of Mexico or the Atlantic Ocean. Swim in crystal clear water, enjoy snorkeling, and also go on a bird watching expedition. Camping fees for 2009 start at $36, and tents are a great way to enjoy the area. There is one RV camping area, but because it fills up quickly, reservations should be made well in advance. Please note that spear fishing is not permitted; moreover, nocturnal nurse sharks hunt the waters at night, and you might want to stay clear of them.

Bahia Honda State Park
36850 Overseas Highway
Big Pine Key, Florida 33043
(305) 872-2353

Grayton Beach State Park

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Grayton Beach is famous for shorebird and also sea turtle nesting, and while this is a great experience for the whole family, younger children must be trained not to upset any nests they may find. The beaches are white and line the Gulf of Mexico. Nearby Western Lake is perfect for freshwater and also saltwater fishing, and the beaches are great for sun worshippers and kayakers. Camping fees for 2009 start at $19. It is also worth noting that there are no RV spaces marked.

Grayton Beach State Park
357 Main Park Road
Santa Rosa Beach, Florida 32459
(850) 231-4210

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Article Written By Sylvia Cochran

Based in the Los Angeles area, Sylvia Cochran is a seasoned freelance writer focusing on home and garden, travel and parenting articles. Her work has appeared in "Families Online Magazine" and assorted print and Internet publications.

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