Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
Discover three miles of pristine beaches, rare dune lakes, and abundant nature at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover three miles of pristine beaches, rare dune lakes, and abundant nature at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park.
"This is the nicest park we’ve been to so far! The sites are spacious, the foliage is beautiful."
Tram Schedule Awareness
The tram runs every 30 mins (9 am-6:30 pm). Plan beach trips accordingly!
Pack Beach Essentials
Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water for a full day of sun and sand.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pristine White Sand Beaches
Beachfront
Miles of secluded, sugar-white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters await. A true coastal paradise.
Coastal Dune Lakes
Throughout the park
Rare and beautiful, these unique freshwater lakes sit atop ancient sand dunes, offering serene beauty.
Tram to the Beach
Campground to Beach
A convenient and free tram service whisks you to the beach, making access easy and enjoyable.
Diverse Camping Options
Campground
From tent sites to RV hookups and cabins, find your perfect stay amidst beautiful natural surroundings.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beach Access & Tram Service
Campground Site Considerations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Tram Schedule Awareness
The tram runs every 30 mins (9 am-6:30 pm). Plan beach trips accordingly!
Pack Beach Essentials
Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water for a full day of sun and sand.
Explore the Trails
Hike or bike the 15 miles of nature trails for stunning dune and lake views.
Kayak/Paddleboard Rentals
Rent gear on-site for a chance to spot dolphins and sea turtles!
Tips
from all over the internet
Tram Schedule Awareness
The tram runs every 30 mins (9 am-6:30 pm). Plan beach trips accordingly!
Pack Beach Essentials
Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water for a full day of sun and sand.
Explore the Trails
Hike or bike the 15 miles of nature trails for stunning dune and lake views.
Kayak/Paddleboard Rentals
Rent gear on-site for a chance to spot dolphins and sea turtles!
Check Campsite Conditions
Some sites have uneven pavement; inquire if possible.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Topsail Hill Preserve State Park for its stunning, uncrowded beaches and the convenience of the free tram service. The park's natural beauty, including its rare dune lakes and well-maintained trails, is a major draw. While most experiences are positive, some guests have noted issues with campsite pavement and the pool temperature.
"This place offers a stunning beach with a free tram service that takes you from the day-use parking/campground to the beach. There are multiple coastal dune lakes in the park, with great trails. Campground offers a variety of accomodations including tent sites, RV/camper trailer sites, & cabins. Beaches are clean with clear blue water and white sand that differs from the Florida Keys. Close to Destin, Florida which has multiple great places to visit. Recommend for any State Park enthusiasts out there and anyone looking for an amazing beach to spend their time off at!"
Mark Nyfo
"We stayed for 5 nights. The staff were super friendly. The smoothie at the café was delicious and refreshing. The campground was clean. The beach was beautiful and the bike trails were perfect. We even made it to the dunes.
The bathrooms were well maintained even with the busyness.
Down sides:
We stayed at site #51. The pad was broken up and was a tripping hazard for us and it was difficult to back the camper in due to the parking right in front.
The pool water was not refreshing at all. We jumped in and jumped right out.
There were more positives than negatives, so I didn't remove a star.
We would definitely recommend it to our friends 🧡"
Violette N
"This is the nicest park we’ve been to after two months, multiple states, national Parks, State Parks, city parks, you name it. This is the best so far! The sites are spacious, the foliage is beautiful. We enjoyed the walk to the ocean then a nice trolley ride back. We took a dip in the pool and noted lots of people riding bicycles and kids playing everywhere.
The park has full hook up with fantastic water pressure, actually 70 psi so we had to regulate down from there. We only spent one night here in June 2025 and didn’t have time to rent the kayaks or other options they had. An air force base is nearby so don’t be surprised to hear early morning thunder in the sky. We look forward to coming back here and spending at least a week next time."
Steve Thomson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is located in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. It's easily accessible by car. The main entrance is off US Highway 98.
There is no direct public transportation to the park. Visitors typically drive. Once inside, a tram service is available to reach the beach from the campground/day-use area.
The most convenient way to access the beach from the campground is by using the free tram service, which runs every 30 minutes from 9 am to 6:30 pm.
Yes, you can bike to the beach. There are dedicated paths and roads within the park, and biking is a popular way to explore.
Parking can be busy, especially during peak season. Arriving earlier in the day is recommended. The park offers a day-use parking area and ample space within the campground.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee for day-use visitors. Camping and cabin rentals have separate fees. Check the official Florida State Parks website for current pricing.
The park is typically open from 8 am until sunset daily. However, specific facilities like the campground and tram have their own operating hours.
It is highly recommended to reserve campsites and cabins in advance, especially during peak seasons, as they can book up quickly. Reservations can be made through the Florida State Parks reservation system.
No, the tram service to the beach is free for park visitors and campers.
Discounts may be available for Florida residents, seniors, or military personnel. It's best to check the official park website or inquire at the entrance station for current discount information.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, hiking, biking, and exploring the unique coastal dune lakes.
Absolutely! The park offers 15 miles of nature trails, including boardwalks and sandy paths, that wind through diverse ecosystems and offer stunning views of the dunes and lakes.
While the dune lakes are beautiful to look at, swimming is generally not recommended due to their unique ecosystem and potential for varying water quality. The ocean beaches are the primary swimming areas.
Yes, the park's diverse habitats make it a great spot for birdwatching. You can often see various shorebirds, wading birds, and migratory species.
The campground offers full hookups (water, sewer, electric), restrooms, showers, a swimming pool, and a camp store/cafe.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a small cafe/coffee shop within the campground that offers smoothies and light snacks.
Yes, if you are camping or staying in a cabin, you can cook at your site. Many sites have picnic tables, and RV sites have space for grills. Campfires are also permitted in designated fire rings.
The cafe typically offers coffee, smoothies, and light snacks. It's a convenient spot for a quick bite or a refreshing drink.
Yes, there are several grocery stores and convenience stores located a short drive from the park in Santa Rosa Beach and Destin, where you can stock up on supplies.
Bringing your own food is generally more budget-friendly, especially for longer stays. However, the proximity to Destin offers many dining choices if you prefer to eat out.
📸 📸 Photography
The beaches with their towering dunes, the unique coastal dune lakes, and the scenic trails offer fantastic photo opportunities. Sunrises and sunsets over the Gulf are particularly stunning.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Florida State Parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check the park's specific regulations regarding drones before flying.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most beautiful light for landscape and beach photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the vibrant blue of the water.
The panoramic views from the tops of the highest dunes are iconic. Also, capturing the reflections in the calm dune lakes can create striking images.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beaches and landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a polarizing filter for vibrant skies and water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The calm, clear waters of the Gulf are generally safe for children to play in, and the soft sand is perfect for building sandcastles. The park also features a swimming pool which is a great alternative for kids who might get tired of the saltwater. For adventurous families, renting kayaks or paddleboards offers a fun way to explore the coastline.
The campground has plenty of space for kids to run around, and some sites are large enough for multiple families to share. Consider booking a cabin for added comfort and convenience. The nearby town of Destin also offers family-friendly attractions if you decide to venture out for a day. 🏕️ Campers & RVers
+2 While most sites are well-maintained, it's wise to be aware that some reviews mention uneven pavement, so checking site specifics might be beneficial. Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campground and the beautiful foliage. The proximity to local amenities and the option to rent kayaks and paddleboards add to the appeal. The park's location also makes it a great stop for those on a longer road trip, offering a peaceful retreat with stunning natural surroundings.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
+1 These trails offer a chance to immerse yourself in the unique ecosystems of the Florida Panhandle and spot local wildlife. For those interested in birdwatching, the park's varied habitats attract a wide array of avian species.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Coastal Dune Lakes
Visitors can explore these lakes via the park's extensive trail system. Hiking or biking along the sandy paths offers opportunities to observe the unique flora and fauna associated with these delicate environments. While swimming in the lakes is generally not advised due to their sensitive nature, their serene beauty makes them a captivating subject for photography and quiet contemplation.
+1Remember to stay on marked trails to protect the fragile dune vegetation. The lakes are a testament to the natural wonders of the Florida coast and a highlight for many visitors seeking a more tranquil experience away from the bustling beach.
Camping and Accommodation Options
+2 Some reviews mention that certain campsite pads might be uneven or broken, so it's worth inquiring about specific site conditions when booking. For those seeking a more rustic experience, the park also offers cabins. These provide a comfortable step up from tent camping, often including basic amenities like beds and climate control. Additionally, the park has recently introduced glamping options, offering a luxurious way to experience the natural beauty of the preserve without sacrificing comfort.
Regardless of your choice, camping at Topsail Hill allows for easy access to the park's amenities, including the swimming pool and the tram service to the beach. The campground itself is often praised for its cleanliness and beautiful natural surroundings.
Beach Experience and Activities
Beyond lounging on the sand, the Gulf waters are perfect for a variety of activities. Visitors can rent kayaks and paddleboards to explore the coastline and potentially spot marine life like dolphins, sea turtles, and sharks.
The calm waters near the shore are also ideal for families with children. The park's location near Destin also means that opportunities for activities like dolphin cruises and fishing charters are readily available nearby. Remember to pack essentials like sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, as the Florida sun can be intense. The beach is the perfect place to unwind, soak up the sun, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Emerald Coast.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit