The Florida Panhandle, or northwest portion of the state, is home to many campgrounds. The narrow arm-like band or strip that for some is considered the Deep South, borders Alabama, Georgia and the Gulf of Mexico. Though its eastern border is disputed, Tallahassee is often cited as the definitive location. This region boasts 33 Florida state parks, many of which have camping facilities.
Grayton Beach State Park
Grayton Beach State Park, in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, is home to nearly 2,000 acres of nature and attractions. Among the park's most popular activities are swimming, sunbathing and surf fishing. Both salt water and fresh water fishing are available at this park while additional water activities include kayaking or canoeing on the lake. Four miles of trails provide ample opportunities for hikers and cyclists to explore, while natural pine flatwoods offer much for wildlife watchers to enjoy. Accommodations at Grayton Beach State Park range from primitive camping sites to full-fledged cabins.
Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park
Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park on St. George Island is a tropical campsite with "miles of undeveloped beach." It faces the Gulf of Mexico on one side and Apalachicola Bay on the other, spreading for an impressive 2,023 acres. Fishing in Apalachicola Bay is a must for the serious fisherman, as flounder, redfish, sea trout, pompano, whiting and Spanish mackerel can be found. Gulf coast shelling is also an option, as is bird watching, with opportunities to spot snowy plover, least tern, black skimmer and willet. For other nature enthusiasts, the park is a great place for sunbathing, swimming, canoeing, boating, hiking, camping and picnicking. Accommodations range from primitive camp sites to fully equipped cabins.
Camel Lake Campground
Camel Lake Campground in Bristol, Florida boasts the charm that only a small park can offer, albeit in the middle of Apalachicola National Forest---the state's largest national forest. Camel Lake, which draws swimmers, boaters and anglers alike. The Florida National Scenic Trail, a 1,400-mile path, winds through the campground---a real treat for hikers and bicyclists. Nonetheless, accommodations are few at Camel Lake Campground, with only ten campsites total and only half of them equipped with electricity and water.
St. Andrews State Park
This former military reservation turned campground is home to shimmering white sands and refreshing green waters. A natural draw for anglers, St. Andrews State Park in Panama City, Florida, has two fishing piers, a jetty, and a boat ramp, in addition to opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and canoeing. Two nature trails make hiking, cycling or bird watching a possibility. Finally, those seeking overnight accommodations will find numerous full-facility campsites at the park.
Wright Lake Campgrounds
Wright Lake Campgrounds within Apalachicola National Forest boast a charming and serene spring-fed lake which is excellent for swimming, boating and fishing. Hikers, wildlife watchers and cyclists can take advantage of five miles of trail circling the lake while 18 campsites meet basic camping needs with picnic tables, grills, tent pads and fire rings.
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