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

[littlemo]

My DH and I plan to take our 11 y/o DGD to the beach in early June. We have stayed at Ft Pickens last year and will probably stay there for a couple of days this time but then want to move on down to where there is more to do and the shops and restaurants are closer for several more days. I have researched Topsail (kinda pricey) but very nice looking, St Andrews and Grayton. I have read the reviews on several places but would like some personal reflections from some of you that live in the area or have visited these parks.

Thanks in advance,

Sharon

They are booking up fast for that time period.

[padredw]

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.

[tomkaren13]

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.

[BobR]

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.

[littlemo]

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.

[wbwood]

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.

[NHIrish]

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.

[fla-gypsy]

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.

[pasco1215]

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

[sch911]

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