Gulf Coast State Parks.....St Andrews or Grayton

Been doing the Topsail thing for 15 years. Wouldn't have it any other way....

check out Henderson State Park in Destin. Very close to Walmart but you wouldn't know you are that close while in the campground.

I have done St Andrews, Henderson, Topsail. And Grayton. My preference is now the FHU loop at Grayton. Not as busy as the others but close enough to enjoy what those places offer in attractions.

fla-gypsy wrote:
I have done St Andrews, Henderson, Topsail. And Grayton. My preference is now the FHU loop at Grayton. Not as busy as the others but close enough to enjoy what those places offer in attractions.

Ditto...but you won't go wrong at any of them.

How in the world can Topsail be pricey? It's like only $40/night and full hook ups, cable, pool and more. With that said, we've stayed at Topsail (2 years ago) and St Andrews (12 years ago). We much prefer Topsail. We are going back this April and will spend 3 days there and 3 days at Grayton. The only reason for going down to Grayton is because there were not enough nights available at Topsail when we made reservations back in November. Sites were limited. I would be making reservations now if you still can for any of those places. My preference would be Topsail, Grayton and then St Andrews. The only reason for me to pick Grayton over St Andrews (even though we've never been to Grayton) is because of the full hook ups and because it's away from the congestion of PCB.

wbwood wrote:
How in the world can Topsail be pricey? It's like only $40/night and full hook ups, cable, pool and more. With that said, we've stayed at Topsail (2 years ago) and St Andrews (12 years ago). We much prefer Topsail. We are going back this April and will spend 3 days there and 3 days at Grayton. The only reason for going down to Grayton is because there were not enough nights available at Topsail when we made reservations back in November. Sites were limited. I would be making reservations now if you still can for any of those places. My preference would be Topsail, Grayton and then St Andrews. The only reason for me to pick Grayton over St Andrews (even though we've never been to Grayton) is because of the full hook ups and because it's away from the congestion of PCB.

No, I guess it isn't pricey for the value. I just have to budget a lot to even get to have this vacation. It really is a good price for what you're getting and maybe next time I can stay there. I did get reservations for St Andrews and my DGD is really looking forward to it. It looks like there is a lot there also to keep her busy. I'm excited and can hardly wait! Thanks for input.

littlemo wrote:

wbwood wrote:
How in the world can Topsail be pricey? It's like only $40/night and full hook ups, cable, pool and more. With that said, we've stayed at Topsail (2 years ago) and St Andrews (12 years ago). We much prefer Topsail. We are going back this April and will spend 3 days there and 3 days at Grayton. The only reason for going down to Grayton is because there were not enough nights available at Topsail when we made reservations back in November. Sites were limited. I would be making reservations now if you still can for any of those places. My preference would be Topsail, Grayton and then St Andrews. The only reason for me to pick Grayton over St Andrews (even though we've never been to Grayton) is because of the full hook ups and because it's away from the congestion of PCB.

No, I guess it isn't pricey for the value. I just have to budget a lot to even get to have this vacation. It really is a good price for what you're getting and maybe next time I can stay there. I did get reservations for St Andrews and my DGD is really looking forward to it. It looks like there is a lot there also to keep her busy. I'm excited and can hardly wait! Thanks for input.

Compared to other Florida state parks, it is pricey. Approximately 40% higher in price.

To answer the question, St. Andrews and Panama City seem to draw a younger crowd. There may be more things for your granddaughter to do there. Personally, I like Grayton Beach better (short walk to ocean) but there is not much to do except enjoy the beaches and relax. Not an ideal mix for a teenager.

We do not like Topsail! To many rules as it is set up like a resort(which it previously was). Almost like do not walk on grass. And the beach is to far away. At least a half mile bike ride then a looong walk to the beach. They do have a tram in place of the bike ride.

Love St Andrews and a short bike ride to beach.

If you do decide to go the Topsail, rather than going to their beach, go out the exit turn right go a couple of miles and you will find public beaches that are very nice.

I am going to make a strong vote for St. Andrews. We have stayed at all of the parks mentioned in this thread. Our favorites remain Ft. Pickens and St. Andrews. We have stayed at St. Andrews beginning in our tent camping and though four different fifth-wheels. It is far different now than when we first sent there and the ranger said, just drive through and pick out your site, come back and let us know.

The only problem with St. Andrews now is that reservations in the Spring are almost impossible. Regulars and Locals are waiting at the gate (on line) when reservations become active by date. I've had to give up several times.

BTW the ideal sites are 106-113 in the Lagoon area at St. Andrews.

padredw wrote:
I am going to make a strong vote for St. Andrews. We have stayed at all of the parks mentioned in this thread. Our favorites remain Ft. Pickens and St. Andrews. We have stayed at St. Andrews beginning in our tent camping and though four different fifth-wheels. It is far different now than when we first sent there and the ranger said, just drive through and pick out your site, come back and let us know.

The only problem with St. Andrews now is that reservations in the Spring are almost impossible. Regulars and Locals are waiting at the gate (on line) when reservations become active by date. I've had to give up several times.

BTW the ideal sites are 106-113 in the Lagoon area at St. Andrews.

Thanks for the input. I also love Fort Pickens. I have booked a couple of nights there and then I booked the rest of the week at St Andrews where I think there will be enough stuff to keep DGD busy. The only site available for us in June was 174. It has a view of the Lagoon but seems pretty shady and I think it will meet our needs. I feel lucky to have gotten it. I'm exited and I appreciate everyone's input...Thanks