Wows and Woes
Wows:
There are plenty of campgrounds throughout the Florida Panhandle, some of which offer beachside spots for sleeping.
Beaches are wide and clean, and the surf is usually very calm. Sunset is often the most beautiful time of the day.
There are numerous outlet shops, arranged in mini-malls that include dining.
Woes:
Take your map! There are no interstates leading directly to the beaches, and most routes include several turns and two-lane roads.
Shopping, dining and other entertainment is often spread out. You may spend more time in your car than you'd ideally like.
Insider Tips
For milder temperatures and thinner crowds, consider camping there in the late spring or early fall.
According to The Nature Conservancy, the Panhandle has some of the largest longleaf pine forests in existence, perfect for hikers.
There are plenty of family-owned eateries with great menus. Ask your campground manager for recommendations.
Do your outlet shopping on a weekday to avoid crowds. Try the Silver Sands Outlet in Destin for some top brand-name shops.
Bottom Line
Pristine beaches, a leisurely lifestyle and plentiful forests make the Florida Panhandle a great camping location for anyone seeking a relaxing (but never boring) vacation.
Author's Most Memorable Moment
I got married on the beach in Destin. Instead of a formal wedding, we went to Camping on the Gulf and had a beach party. Our day included go-kart racing and lounging in the sand before we had a simple sunset wedding. Bare feet and beachwear were required!
Article Written By Elizabeth Dolgner
Elizabeth Dolgner is a freelance writer with over a decade of experience. Dolgner now works in the motorsports industry, writing for "2Wheel Tuner," "Roadracing World," "Grassroots Motorsports," and other publications. She is also an author and has published two books. Dolgner holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Florida Atlantic University.
