Introduction
When planning an RV trip to Destin, Florida, the choice of park can make or break your beachside escape. Whether you’re seeking a serene natural environment, luxury amenities, or family-friendly fun, the right RV park is essential to crafting a memorable stay. In this guide, I’ll walk you through seven of the best RV parks in Destin, each offering unique experiences that cater to different preferences. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of which park suits your needs and how to make the most of your visit.
1. Henderson Beach State Park
Henderson Beach State Park is a haven for those who love nature and tranquility. The park offers 6,000 feet of pristine shoreline along the Gulf of Mexico, providing some of the most stunning beach views in Destin. Each RV site is equipped with full hookups (electric and water), and most sites are up to 60 feet long—perfect for accommodating larger RVs.
Location: 17000 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL 32541
Phone: +1 850-837-7550
Official Website: Henderson Beach State Park
Contact Email: hendersonbeachsp@floridadep.gov
Operating Hours: 8 a.m. to sundown, 365 days a year
Services Offered: RV camping, beach access, nature trails, picnic areas
Main Contact Person: Park Manager
Certifications: Recognized as a “Florida Green Lodging” property for its commitment to environmental practices.
At Henderson Beach, I was particularly impressed by the privacy provided by the natural vegetation between sites. The park’s nature trail offers a peaceful retreat into the local flora and fauna, perfect for a morning stroll. For families, the playground and picnic areas are ideal spots to relax and enjoy a meal. If you’re planning to explore more of Destin, the park is just a 10-minute drive from HarborWalk Village, where you can find restaurants, shops, and tour operators for activities like dolphin watching.
For those interested in environmental conservation, Henderson Beach State Park has earned recognition for its sustainable practices, further enhancing its appeal for eco-conscious travelers.
2. Camp Gulf
For an RV experience that’s as close to the beach as it gets, Camp Gulf is unparalleled. Situated directly on the beach, this park allows you to step out of your RV and onto the sand within seconds. The beachfront sites are the most coveted, offering direct access to the Gulf of Mexico, but even the more affordable sites are only a short walk away.
Location: 10005 Emerald Coast Pkwy W, Miramar Beach, FL 32550
Phone: +1 850-837-6334
Official Website: Camp Gulf
Contact Email: camp@campgulf.com
Operating Hours: Open year-round, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Services Offered: Beachfront RV sites, full hookups, swimming pools, hot tub, organized activities
Main Contact Person: Resort Manager
Certifications: Rated as a top 10 beachside RV resort by Trailer Life.
The amenities at Camp Gulf are designed with families in mind. There are two swimming pools, a hot tub, and even a waterslide to keep the kids entertained. I also appreciated the organized activities, which included movie nights and beach bonfires—perfect for creating lasting memories.
Pets are welcome at Camp Gulf, and the park provides designated pet areas and a dog washing station, making it easy to care for your furry friends. The proximity to Destin Commons and Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park adds to the appeal, providing easy access to shopping and entertainment.
Cost-wise, Camp Gulf is on the higher end, especially for the beachfront sites, but the convenience and the unparalleled beach access justify the price. If you’re looking for an RV experience that blends luxury with the beauty of the Gulf Coast, Camp Gulf is a prime choice.
3. Destin West RV Resort
Destin West RV Resort offers a luxurious RV camping experience with a touch of tropical paradise. Located on Okaloosa Island, this resort is part of a larger complex that includes a hotel, giving you access to premium amenities like a lazy river, heated pool, and a private beach.
Location: 1310 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
Phone: +1 850-200-4533
Official Website: Destin West RV Resort
Contact Email: reservations@destinwest.com
Operating Hours: Open year-round
Services Offered: Full hookups, Wi-Fi, cable TV, lazy river access, pool, beach access
Main Contact Person: Resort Director
Certifications: AAA-rated resort with a Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor.
The spacious sites can accommodate even the largest RVs, and each one is paved, providing a clean and stable surface. Full hookups, including 30/50 amp electric service, water, and sewer, ensure that your stay is comfortable and convenient.
What I loved most about Destin West was the access to both the beach and the Choctawhatchee Bay. I spent my days alternating between the calm bay waters—ideal for kayaking and fishing—and the lively beachfront, where the resort hosts various activities. The Destin Harbor Boardwalk is just a short drive away, offering an array of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options.
If you’re traveling with family, the resort’s amenities and activities make it a fantastic option. For couples, the resort’s serene environment and luxury touches provide a romantic getaway.
4. Geronimo RV Resort
For travelers seeking a quiet retreat with easy access to both Destin’s attractions and the beach, Geronimo RV Resort is a hidden gem. This smaller park offers a more intimate atmosphere, with just 31 spacious sites, each with full hookups.
Location: 75 Arnett Ln, Miramar Beach, FL 32550
Phone: +1 850-424-6801
Official Website: Geronimo RV Resort
Contact Email: info@geronimorvresort.com
Operating Hours: Open year-round, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Services Offered: Full hookups, Wi-Fi, pet-friendly, proximity to shopping and dining
Main Contact Person: Resort Manager
Certifications: Certified as a “Good Sam Park” for quality and service.
Despite its smaller size, Geronimo RV Resort doesn’t skimp on amenities. Each site is large enough to accommodate RVs up to 45 feet, and the full hookups make for an easy and comfortable stay. The park’s quiet atmosphere is perfect for relaxation, while its proximity to the Silver Sands Premium Outlets allows for convenient shopping.
Dining options are also plentiful, with a variety of restaurants just a short walk away. Whether you’re in the mood for casual fare or something more upscale, you’ll find it nearby.
Geronimo RV Resort is also known for its affordability. The rates are more budget-friendly than many other parks in the area, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy Destin without breaking the bank. Pets are welcome, and the park provides a friendly, laid-back environment that’s ideal for a peaceful getaway.
5. Navarre Beach Campground
Located on the serene Santa Rosa Sound, Navarre Beach Campground offers a perfect blend of beach access and natural beauty. This campground provides some of the most stunning water views in the region, with many sites located right along the shoreline.
Location: 9201 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre, FL 32566
Phone: +1 850-939-2188
Official Website: Navarre Beach Campground
Contact Email: info@navbeach.com
Operating Hours: Open year-round
Services Offered: Full hookups, swimming pool, kayak launch, pet-friendly, rec room
Main Contact Person: Campground Manager
Certifications: Certified “Florida Green Lodging” and rated highly by Good Sam.
The RV sites at Navarre Beach Campground are well-maintained, offering full hookups with 30/50 amp electric service, water, sewer, and cable TV. The sunsets viewed from this campground are simply spectacular, with the vibrant colors reflecting off the calm waters of the sound.
For families, the campground offers a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, playground, and a rec room with games and activities. The on-site kayak launch allowed me to spend a day paddling around the calm waters, enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Pets are welcome, and the park has a designated dog walk area and even offers doggie daycare services.
Navarre Beach Campground’s location near the Gulf Islands National Seashore makes it an excellent
choice for nature lovers. The seashore offers miles of pristine beaches and scenic hiking trails, providing ample opportunities for outdoor exploration.
6. Emerald Beach RV Park
Emerald Beach RV Park offers a tranquil, beachfront camping experience with direct access to the Santa Rosa Sound. The park is beautifully landscaped, featuring palm trees and flowering shrubs that create a tropical atmosphere.
Location: 8885 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre, FL 32566
Phone: +1 850-939-3431
Official Website: Emerald Beach RV Park
Contact Email: info@emeraldbeachrvpark.com
Operating Hours: Open year-round
Services Offered: Full hookups, heated swimming pool, private beach, fishing pier, kayak rentals
Main Contact Person: Park Manager
Certifications: AAA-rated and a Good Sam Park.
The RV sites at Emerald Beach are spacious and well-maintained, each with full hookups, cable TV, and Wi-Fi. Many of the sites offer water views, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty of the sound right from your RV.
I found the park’s amenities to be particularly appealing. The heated swimming pool and private beach area along the sound were perfect for a relaxing day in the sun. The park also features a fishing pier, where I spent several afternoons fishing and taking in the stunning views. For those who enjoy water sports, kayak and paddleboard rentals are available, making it easy to explore the calm waters of the sound.
Emerald Beach RV Park is also conveniently located near Destin’s top attractions. The park is just a short drive from the Destin Harbor Boardwalk, where you can enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment. Whether you’re looking to relax by the water or explore the local area, Emerald Beach RV Park provides a serene and comfortable base for your Destin adventure.
7. Destin Village RV Resort
Destin Village RV Resort is a gated, luxury RV community located in the heart of Destin. This exclusive resort features just 27 RV sites, ensuring a more private and upscale experience.
Location: 39 Diamond Cove, Destin, FL 32541
Phone: +1 850-837-6511
Official Website: Destin Village RV Resort
Contact Email: info@destinvillagervresort.com
Operating Hours: Open year-round
Services Offered: Full hookups, gated community, private beach access, picnic tables, gas grills
Main Contact Person: Resort Manager
Certifications: Rated as a top luxury RV resort by Woodall’s.
The RV sites at Destin Village are fully paved and offer full hookups with 30/50 amp electric service, water, and sewer. Each site is also equipped with picnic tables and gas grills, making it easy to enjoy a meal outdoors in the comfort of your own space.
What sets Destin Village apart is its proximity to the beach and local attractions. The resort is just a short walk from the beach, where I spent my days swimming, sunbathing, and collecting seashells. The resort is also close to Destin Commons and the Silver Sands Premium Outlets, making it easy to indulge in some retail therapy during your stay.
Despite its luxurious amenities, Destin Village RV Resort maintains a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The resort is family-friendly and pet-friendly, with plenty of space for kids to play and for pets to stretch their legs. Whether you’re looking for a quiet getaway or an action-packed vacation, Destin Village RV Resort offers the perfect combination of comfort and convenience.
FAQs
What are the best times of year to visit Destin RV parks?
The best time to visit Destin RV parks is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is warm but not too hot, and the crowds are smaller. During these months, temperatures range from 60°F to 85°F (15°C to 29°C), making it perfect for outdoor activities.
Are these RV parks pet-friendly?
Yes, most of the RV parks listed here are pet-friendly. However, it’s always a good idea to check with each park regarding their specific pet policies, such as leash requirements and designated pet areas.
Do any of these parks offer extended stay options?
Many of the parks, such as Henderson Beach State Park and Destin Village RV Resort, offer extended stay options, especially during the off-season. It’s best to contact the parks directly for availability and pricing for extended stays.
How far in advance should I book my spot?
During peak season (June to August), it’s recommended to book your spot at least 6 to 12 months in advance, especially for popular parks like Camp Gulf and Destin West RV Resort. For off-peak times, a few months’ notice should suffice.
What are some must-see attractions near these RV parks?
Must-see attractions near these RV parks include the Destin Harbor Boardwalk, Gulf Islands National Seashore, Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park, and the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. These attractions offer a mix of natural beauty, family fun, and opportunities to learn about the local marine life.
What amenities should I expect at these RV parks?
Most of these RV parks offer full hookups (electric, water, and sewer), Wi-Fi, cable TV, restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities. Some parks also offer additional amenities like swimming pools, playgrounds, and organized activities.
Conclusion
Choosing the right RV park can make or break your beachside escape to Destin. Each of the parks listed here offers something unique, whether it’s direct beach access, family-friendly amenities, or a peaceful, natural setting. By considering factors like location, amenities, and cost, you can find the perfect spot to park your RV and enjoy all that Destin has to offer. Book your spot early, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure on the beautiful Gulf Coast!
