7 Awesome State Parks In Destin & Nearby!

Best State Parks In Destin & Nearby

1. Henderson Beach State Park

Henderson Beach State Park, located in Destin, offers visitors over 6,000 feet of scenic shoreline along the Gulf of Mexico.

This park is recognized for its sugar-white sands and emerald-green waters.

Amenities at Henderson Beach State Park include picnic pavilions, playgrounds, and nature trails.

These facilities provide options for both relaxation and recreation.

Camping enthusiasts will find 60 well-maintained campsites available. Each site comes equipped with water, electricity, and a picnic table.

Wildlife is abundant, with opportunities to see various bird species, including sandpipers and pelicans.

Anglers can also enjoy fishing in designated areas along the shore.

For those interested in hiking, the park offers a 0.75-mile nature trail that winds through coastal scrub and dune habitats.

The park is open daily from 8 a.m. until sundown, providing ample time to explore its natural beauty.

And speaking of the sun going down, Henderson Beach State Park is an amazing spot in Destin to see the sunset!

Entry fees are reasonable, making it an accessible destination for families.  If you’re a solo driver, you can enter the park at a reduced rate.  

2. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is known for its pristine beach. It boasts over three miles of unspoiled white sand along the Gulf of Mexico.

The park also features several freshwater dune lakes. These rare coastal lakes provide unique recreational opportunities like kayaking and fishing.

Camping enthusiasts will find well-maintained RV and tent sites. The park provides full facilities, including restrooms and showers.

Nature trails wind through pine forests and it’s about a mile walk to the beach from the entry point. 

If you don’t feel like walking your things to the beach, you can take the tram that goes back and forth throughout the day. 

Shells often wash up on its shores, making Topsail Hill a hotspot for beachcombing.

Wildlife observation is popular at the park, with sightings of deer, shorebirds, and even the occasional alligator.

Biking is another popular activity here. The paved paths and scenic views offer an enjoyable experience for all ages.

3. Grayton Beach State Park

Grayton Beach State Park, located between Destin and Panama City Beach, offers over 2,000 acres of natural beauty.

The park is known for its pristine white sand dunes and clear, emerald-green waters.

It boasts a diverse ecosystem, including salt marshes and pine flat woods.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, fishing, and paddleboarding.

The park’s freshwater Western Lake is a popular spot for kayaking and canoeing.

Grayton Beach State Park also features several hiking and biking trails. These trails offer the chance to see local wildlife and native vegetation.

Camping facilities are available, with options for both tent and RV camping.

The park includes modern amenities such as restrooms, showers, and picnic areas.

For bird watchers, the park is a prime location. Many migratory and native bird species can be spotted throughout the year.

Grayton Beach’s unique blend of coastal dune lakes and Gulf waters makes it a standout destination.

The tranquility and natural beauty of the area attract nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts!

If you plan on leaving the park to explore the area, Grayton Beach has some great restaurants in the area, including my favorite, Chiringo and Red Bar. 

4. Deer Lake State Park

Deer Lake State Park is a serene destination located along the scenic Highway 30A in Florida.

The park features a rare coastal dune lake and the pristine beach offers soft white sand and turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and laying out in the sun.

The vegetation provides a natural habitat for a variety of wildlife, and the hiking trails allow visitors to explore sand dunes, pine flatwoods, and coastal scrub.

There are well-maintained picnic areas where families and groups can relax and have lunch.

Camping is not available, but if you’re staying in the area, you can definitely extend the adventure beyond a day visit. 

5. Camp Helen State Park

Camp Helen State Park is in Panama City Beach and is a park with tons of natural beauty. 

Situated on the Gulf of Mexico and Lake Powell, it covers over 180 acres.

The park’s history dates back to prehistoric times, with evidence of ancient Native American civilizations.

Visitors can explore the remnants of an old mill and other historic structures.

The diverse ecosystems include dunes, marshes, and coastal forests.

Hikers can enjoy trails that meander through these varying landscapes. Bird watchers will find a variety of species to observe.

Fishing is another popular activity, with both saltwater and freshwater options. Visitors can fish from the shore or take a kayak.

The beach is less crowded, offering a peaceful experience for swimming and sunbathing.

Camp Helen also has picnic areas perfect for a family outing. Restroom facilities and showers are conveniently located, and you can also make a stop at the visitor center. 

This state park provides a range of activities in a serene environment.

6. Big Lagoon State Park

Big Lagoon State Park, located near Pensacola, Florida, offers a range of outdoor activities.

Visitors can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the lagoon waters.

The park also features several hiking trails that wind through pine flatwoods and saltwater marshes.

Birdwatching enthusiasts will find the park a prime location. It’s home to numerous bird species, especially during migration seasons.

The observation tower provides an excellent vantage point for spotting wildlife.

For those interested in camping, Big Lagoon offers options for both tents and RVs.

The campground is equipped with modern amenities, including restrooms and showers.

Fishing is another popular activity, with anglers often catching a variety of saltwater fish.

The park also includes a boat ramp for easy access to the Intracoastal Waterway. 

The park’s beach area is a great place to relax and enjoy the Gulf of Mexico’s waters!

Frequently Asked Questions

State parks near Destin offer a variety of recreational activities, and camping facilities, and have distinct entry fees.

What Are The Top Activities To Do In The State Parks Near Destin, Florida?

Visitors can enjoy swimming, hiking, and bird watching at Henderson Beach State Park.

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park offers a beautiful beach, as well as fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Grayton Beach State Park is known for its scenic biking and nature trails.

Deer Lake State Park features rare coastal dune lakes and nature trails.

Can You Provide A List Of State Parks Near Destin With Available Camping Facilities?

Henderson Beach State Park offers RV and tent camping sites with electricity and water.

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park has full-facility campsites including cabins and tent sites.

Grayton Beach State Park provides RV and tent camping, as well as cabins.

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