It wan't long after arriving at Florida's Grayton Beach State Park before we were strolling barefoot along the seashore. This section of Gulf coast is naturally captivating.
When someone from the upper midwest (like us) experiences the white sand barrier dunes of the Florida Panhandle for the first time, it almost seems like you're gazing upon monstrous snow drifts overtaking a primitive landscape.
But this isn't our first Panhandle rodeo (won't be the last), and those drifts you are looking at are definitely not snow. In fact, it's sunny here and the temp is hovering around 70F. Nearly perfect. And captivating.
The Details:
Grayton Beach State Park where we are staying has a well designed campground featuring 61 roomy RV sites spread across 2 large loops.
Each level campsite includes full hookups (50A), a picnic table, and a fire ring. Campers are separated from neighbors by lush native vegetation. A modern bathhouse is conveniently located in center of each loop and includes coin-operated laundry facilities.
The campground is just a short walk/bike/drive away from an untouched, pristine beach that is 50 yards wide and at least a mile long.
In addition to the camping facilities and the beach, there are picnic shelters and a well-planned network of easily managed hiking trails that meander alternatively through dunes, forest and wetlands.
Western Lake is a large inland body of water within the park that is a popular spot for fishing and bird-watching as well as canoeing and kayaking. (Rentals are available.) There is no swimming in the lake, however; the alligators don't like it.
Grayton Breach State Park is an immaculate natural treasure, certainly one of the best maintained parks we've ever stayed at. And it's location can't be beat: not too far from bustling Destin, and a stone's throw from the charming town of Seaside, Florida..
Next Up:
Food and fun around Grayton Beach.
