If you’re looking for a perfect blend of nature, relaxation, and proximity to Destin’s excitement, Henderson Beach State Park in Florida might just be the ideal spot for your next camping trip. During our recent visit, we discovered just how special this park is, offering a serene getaway while being just a stone’s throw from the hustle and bustle of Destin.
A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Destin
Although Destin has grown immensely over the years with its restaurants, shops, and attractions, Henderson Beach State Park remains a peaceful retreat. Located off Highway 98, just a half-mile from major shopping spots like Walmart and Bass Pro Shops, this state park offers a beautiful, quiet escape amidst the surrounding development. It’s the perfect balance of convenience and tranquility.
One of the highlights of the park is its stunning 6,000-foot white sand beach, consistently rated among the best in the area. The park’s 208 acres are filled with sand pines, southern magnolias, and dunes that support an array of wildlife, creating a truly natural atmosphere. Plus, it’s pet-friendly and offers plenty of activities for everyone, from families to nature lovers.
Our Camping Experience at Henderson Beach State Park
While we absolutely love exploring Destin, we often opt for camping when visiting, and Henderson Beach’s campground didn’t disappoint. Booking well in advance is a good idea, as the campsites, especially those near the Gulf of Mexico, tend to fill up quickly. There are 52 campsites in total, with options for both tents and RVs, but we chose one of the two small tent-only sites. Our site was a bit cramped, sharing a driveway with another camper, but it was still a comfortable and quiet spot to settle into.
One of the biggest perks was being so close to the bathhouse, which was well-maintained and featured free showers. Plus, the laundry facilities were conveniently nearby. There’s also a paved path leading to the beach, making it easy to access the stunning shoreline.
Exploring the Beach and Beyond
Henderson Beach offers a peaceful, uncrowded beach experience. With only 50 or so campsites using the beach, it never felt cramped, even on a holiday weekend. The beach was perfect for us to spread out, relax, and let the kids run free. For a small additional cost, we took advantage of the chair and umbrella service. For $25 for half a day or $40 for a full day, the staff set up everything for us—so worth it to skip the hassle of carrying gear.
After enjoying the beach, we took a quick drive to nearby attractions like go-kart racing and seafood restaurants, all just minutes away from the park.
Booking a Campsite
I recommend booking through Reserve America for the best availability and ease of use, although you can also use the Florida State Parks website. I usually search for flexible dates and available tent sites, then check the calendar to find the best fit for our family. It’s quick and efficient, and the process is very straightforward.
A Few Cons to Consider
While our stay was wonderful, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. First, the tent-only sites, like the one we stayed in, are pretty small, so next time we’d opt for a larger site. Additionally, while the park is peaceful, there’s a helicopter tour service that flies overhead frequently, which can disrupt the quiet atmosphere. The heat was another factor—while the park offers shade, we found ourselves sweating by midday, so visiting in the cooler months, like spring or fall, would be ideal.
What We Loved and Tips for Future Visitors
Despite a few minor inconveniences, Henderson Beach State Park offered a fantastic camping experience. The camp store is convenient for grabbing essentials like firewood, and we saw lots of kids on bikes and scooters, so bringing those along would be a great idea. It’s hard to beat the value of camping on the beach in Destin for just $30 a night.
One of my favorite memories was waking up early with Abby to catch the sunrise while walking along the beach. Camping truly allows you to slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures of life.
If you’re looking for a peaceful, affordable getaway in Destin, Henderson Beach State Park should be at the top of your list for camping and outdoor adventure. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget!
