By Katie King

Needing to disconnect? Clear your mind? Get off the grid for a while?

In today’s fast-paced, technology-dependent world, sometimes there’s nothing more appealing than unplugging and entrenching oneself in nature’s magnificent glory. And spring is the perfect time of year to do that on Pensacola Beach. Plus, camping is proven to have an impact on reducing stress and contributes to emotional and physical health.

Even better, when it comes to planning a trip outdoors, camping offers some of the most affordable options. Nowadays, more and more people are expressing interest in camping in all of its forms – from adventure camping to glamping.

Whether you prefer primitive camping in a hammock, teepee or tent or glamping in a camper trailer, RV or tiki suite, Pensacola Beach provides two amazing options – each offering a pristine backdrop to fall asleep under the stars with the sound of the pulsating Gulf waters serenading you.

Fort Pickens:

For natural beauty and stunning beach views along the Gulf Islands National Seashore, head over to Fort Pickens on the western tip of Pensacola Beach. On one side, the protected waters of Pensacola Bay. On the other side, the Gulf of Mexico, dotted by ancient dunes topped with sea oats.

This vast park offers daytime adventures such as pier fishing, crabbing, swimming, snorkeling and exploring it’s namesake – the towering, pentagonal Fort Pickens, built to defend Pensacola Bay in 1834. 

With five camping loops with amenities to serve every type of camper, here you can revel in the serenity of nature among the dunes and live oaks, all nestled in history. This popular campground offers 180 sites equipped with everything from primitive ground-tent camping with simple amenities such as picnic tables, grills, fire-pits and access to running water; to RV-style camping with water and electric hookups, hot showers, drinking water and restrooms.

Loop A is the most popular at the national seashore, with live oaks and other trees providing shade over nearly all sites. Beach access is directly across the street and the Blackbird Marsh Trail, a nature trail with interpretive panels. For more details on the rest of the loops, check out the Fort Pickens campground website.

Pensacola Beach RV Resort:

If “glamping” is more your camping style, this park-and-play RV park comes with its own Tiki bar and is within walking distance of Casino Beach, the Gulf pier, the beach boardwalk, shops, amazing restaurants and multiple entertainment venues. The park’s waterfront sites are on the sound side and offer plenty of beach access with complimentary chairs and umbrellas.

Located in the heart of Pensacola Beach, the RV park has full amenities. Each site also comes with its own picnic table with an available gas grill. Visitors can boat up, paddle up or saunter over from your RV and get refreshed at the on-site Island Culture Tiki Bar. No frills here, just open air, cold brew and all the guests are barefoot and still salty.

Complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas accent the beach life, while a clubhouse with amenities such as washer and dryers, a meeting area and a Tiki Store to cover those last-minute supplies needs.

Don’t have an RV? The resort has three rentals ranging from the simple Tiki Room to the Tiki Hut Hideaway and the luxury-esque Tiki Suite.

For more details, check out Pensacola Beach RV Resort website.

Ready to get off the grid and create your own campfire stories now? Come discover the renewal and adventure that awaits you within the unspoiled natural treasures of Pensacola Beach.