Camping Area at St Andrew's State Park

For those of us living in Florida, the allure of our pristine beaches and diverse natural landscapes is undeniable. When it comes to finding a truly exceptional camping experience that blends coastal beauty with ample amenities, the Camping Area at St. Andrews State Park in Panama City Beach stands out as a top-tier destination. Repeatedly praised by locals as a "gem" and a place to "fill your soul to the tippy top," this state park campground offers a refreshing escape from the everyday, making it a beloved spot for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike.

St. Andrews State Park itself is renowned for its sugar-white sands and emerald-green waters, offering a captivating backdrop for any outdoor enthusiast. The campground, nestled within this natural paradise, has undergone significant upgrades, providing modern comforts while maintaining a deep connection to the surrounding environment. It's a place where the sounds of the Gulf meet the rustle of the pines, creating a peaceful ambiance that invites relaxation and rejuvenation.

Whether you're an avid RVer seeking spacious sites with full hookups or a tent camper looking for a serene spot close to the water, St. Andrews delivers. Its unique position offers access to both the calm waters of the Grand Lagoon and the majestic waves of the Gulf of Mexico, ensuring a variety of activities right at your fingertips. From the convenience of reaching Shell Island to the simple pleasure of watching a sunset over the water, this campground embodies the very best of Florida's outdoor living.

The Camping Area at St. Andrews State Park is located on an Unnamed Road in Panama City, FL 32408, USA, which is centrally situated within the larger St. Andrews State Park. The park itself is strategically positioned on a peninsula in Panama City Beach, effectively separating the Gulf of Mexico from the Grand Lagoon. This unique geographic placement provides campers with immediate access to diverse aquatic environments.

For Floridians, accessing the park is straightforward. St. Andrews State Park is at the eastern end of Panama City Beach, easily reachable via Thomas Drive (CR 392) from US-98. The well-maintained roads lead directly to the park entrance, ensuring a smooth journey for those traveling from various parts of the state. Once inside the park, clear signage guides visitors to the Camping Area.

The convenience of the park's location extends beyond easy driving access. While offering a sense of natural seclusion, it remains close to the myriad of attractions and conveniences that Panama City Beach has to offer. Essential services such as grocery stores, gas stations, and a wide array of dining options are just a short drive away, ensuring that campers have everything they need without sacrificing their connection to nature. This blend of accessibility and serene natural beauty makes the Camping Area at St. Andrews State Park an incredibly suitable and appealing choice for local Florida residents.

Services Offered:

• Full Hook-Up Campsites: Most RV sites offer water, 30-amp, and 50-amp electric, along with sewer connections, accommodating RVs up to 50 feet in length.
• Tent Camping Sites: Dedicated areas are available for traditional tent camping.
• New & Upgraded Bathhouses: Enjoy clean, modern, and accessible restroom facilities with hot showers, noted for their quality by recent visitors.
• Laundry Facilities: On-site laundry amenities are available, providing convenience for longer stays.
• Picnic Tables & Grills: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a ground grill for outdoor cooking and dining.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome in the campground area, though specific rules apply regarding leashes and restricted areas (e.g., swimming areas and buildings).
• Camp Store & Concessions: The park offers a Camp Store with bait, tackle, ice, camping supplies, firewood, and rentals (golf carts, bicycles, pontoon boats, kayaks). There's also a Jetty Store with food, drinks, and beach gear.
• Shell Island Shuttle Service: A convenient shuttle operates seasonally, providing easy boat access to the pristine, undeveloped Shell Island directly from the park.
• Boat Ramp: A double-sided concrete boat ramp accommodates various watercraft for access to St. Andrews Bay.
• Fishing Piers: Two fishing piers are available for anglers, along with opportunities for jetty and surf fishing.

Features / Highlights:

• Spacious and Clean Sites: Campers frequently praise the spaciousness and cleanliness of the RV and tent sites, providing ample room to relax.
• Water Views: Many campsites offer refreshing views of the Lower Grand Lagoon or are just steps from the water.
• Easy Shell Island Access: Considered a "stone's throw away," Shell Island is incredibly easy to reach via the park's shuttle or by private boat, offering a unique, unspoiled barrier island experience.
• Extensive Beaches: Over 1.5 miles of sugar-white sand beaches on both the Gulf of Mexico and Grand Lagoon provide endless opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, shelling, and walking.
• Abundant Wildlife: The park is a haven for diverse wildlife, including various bird species, marine life, and opportunities for spotting dolphins and possibly sea turtles.
• Multi-Use Trails: Enjoy a super fun bike path and other nature trails (like Heron Pond and Gator Lake trails) for walking, hiking, and birdwatching.
• Variety of Water Activities: Beyond swimming, visitors can enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and even surfing on the Gulf side.
• Boat and Kayak Rentals: Convenient on-site rentals make it easy to explore the waterways.
• Peaceful and Tranquil Setting: Despite being close to Panama City Beach, the campground maintains a serene and peaceful atmosphere, offering a true escape.
• Upgraded Facilities: The recent renovations mean modern and well-maintained amenities throughout the campground.
• Glamping Options: For those seeking more comfort, glamping eco-tents with water views, electricity, and air conditioning are also available.

Contact Information:

Address: Unnamed Road, Panama City, FL 32408, USA (within St. Andrews State Park)

Park Main Phone: (850) 708-6100 (for general inquiries and arrivals after sunset)

Reservations: (800) 326-3521 or TDD (888) 433-0287 (Florida State Parks Reservation System)

For Florida residents, the Camping Area at St. Andrews State Park is truly an unparalleled choice for your next outdoor adventure. It seamlessly blends the convenience of modern, newly upgraded facilities with direct access to some of the most stunning natural beauty our state has to offer. The spacious, clean sites and tranquil atmosphere provide a peaceful retreat, while the abundance of activities ensures there's always something to do for every member of the family.

The crown jewel for many local campers is the incredible proximity and easy access to Shell Island. This unspoiled barrier island, with its pristine beaches and abundant wildlife, is just a short boat ride away, offering an escape within an escape. Whether you're into fishing from the pier, biking along scenic trails, kayaking in the lagoon, or simply soaking up the sun on the Gulf beach, St. Andrews has it all. The consistent praise from fellow Floridians highlights the park's ability to "fill your soul to the tippy top," making it a perfect, highly recommended destination for creating lasting memories right here in our own backyard. It’s not just a campground; it’s a quintessential Florida experience waiting to be discovered or revisited.

Camping Area at St Andrew's State Park

Unnamed Road, Panama City, FL 32408, USA