Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, located in Florida, is a coastal haven offering 3.2 miles of white-sand beaches, rare dune ecosystems, and activities for nature lovers. Open daily from 8 a.m. to sundown, the park features swimming, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can enjoy tranquil beaches, explore the unique Campbell Lake, or fish in both freshwater and saltwater environments. Amenities include a tram service, gear rentals, ADA-compliant facilities, and a ranger station with activity schedules. Admission is $6 per vehicle, and rentals are available for watercraft and beach gear. Follow park rules to help preserve its natural beauty.
The Beach, Trails, Amenities, and Lodging of Top Sail Hill Preserve State Park| Santa Rosa Beach, Fl
Swimming and Beach Relaxation
Topsail Hill Beach Flag Warning System Guide
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park offers a beach experience like no other, thanks to its stunning white quartz sand and emerald-green Gulf waters. These pristine beaches are a haven for swimming and relaxation, and because they’re only accessible through the state park, they stay blissfully uncrowded year-round. A convenient tram service shuttles visitors and their gear from the parking area straight to the shore, making your trip to the beach hassle-free.
Sunbathing and Beach Views
If you’re looking for a peaceful spot to soak up the sun, Topsail Hill’s towering sand dunes - rising 25 feet above sea level - create a breathtaking backdrop for a day of relaxation. With 3.2 miles of untouched shoreline, there’s plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the serenity. The protected nature of the beach ensures its quiet charm remains intact. Don’t feel like lugging your own equipment? Topsail Outfitters has you covered with beach chair and umbrella rentals. Since natural shade is scarce, renting an umbrella is a smart move for longer sunbathing sessions. The park opens at 8 a.m. daily, and arriving early ensures you snag the best spots.
Swimming in the Gulf
Swimming is allowed along the entire stretch of beach, but keep in mind that no lifeguards are on duty, so you’ll need to swim responsibly. The park uses a color-coded flag system to keep visitors informed about water conditions:
| Flag Color | Meaning | Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Green | Waters are safe | Low |
| Yellow | Swim with caution; stay close to shore | Moderate |
| Red | High surf or strong currents | High |
| Double Red | No swimming allowed | Prohibited |
| Purple | Marine pests present (e.g., jellyfish) | Caution |
Before diving in, check the flags at the beach entrance for the latest updates on conditions. For those interested in snorkeling, the Seahorse Reef, located just offshore, provides a chance to explore underwater when the water is calm. Amenities like restrooms, outdoor showers for rinsing off sand, and a refillable water bottle station ensure you stay comfortable and hydrated throughout the day.
Shelling Along the Shore
For beachcombers, Topsail Hill’s quiet shoreline is a treasure trove. After high tide, the Gulf often leaves behind seashells and sea beans, perfect for collecting. Keep an eye out for wildlife too - shorebirds like snowy plovers often forage near the water’s edge. To protect this delicate environment, the park has some rules: glass containers, alcohol, fires, and pets are not allowed on the beach. For added accessibility, the ranger station offers two all-terrain beach wheelchairs free of charge, ensuring everyone can enjoy the beauty of the shore.
Whether you’re swimming, sunbathing, or searching for hidden treasures, Topsail Hill’s beaches offer a tranquil escape from the everyday hustle.
Fishing at Topsail Hill
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park offers more than just stunning beaches and tranquil swimming spots - it’s a haven for fishing enthusiasts. Whether you prefer casting a line in the Gulf or trying your luck in one of Florida’s rare coastal dune lakes, this park has something for every angler. Just make sure to grab a Florida recreational fishing license before you start. For up-to-date bag limits and size restrictions, check out the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website. To make the most of your visit, explore both saltwater and freshwater fishing opportunities.
Surf Fishing in the Gulf
With 3.2 miles of unspoiled beachfront, the park provides an excellent setting for surf fishing. Depending on the season, you might reel in pompano (April–September), redfish (March–July, with the biggest "Bull" Redfish biting in September–October), Spanish mackerel, or even the occasional king mackerel. The best times to fish are early morning and late afternoon, when the fish are most active. Don’t have your own gear? No problem. You can rent everything you need at the Campground Store, open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or check out Topsail Outfitters for tackle options.
Freshwater Fishing in Coastal Dune Lakes
For a completely different fishing experience, head to Campbell Lake, a 100-acre coastal dune lake that’s as unique as it is beautiful. Here, you’ll find largemouth bass (most active from March–May and October–December), panfish like bream (best caught January–March), and catfish (peak season runs from June–August). Occasionally, when the lake connects to the Gulf, saltwater species like flounder, mullet, and redfish make their way in, adding an element of surprise to your day.
To protect this fragile ecosystem, personal watercraft are not allowed. Instead, you can rent a canoe or kayak from the Campground Store (open daily, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.) to access the lake. Whether you prefer fishing from the shoreline or paddling out to deeper waters, Campbell Lake offers a peaceful and rewarding experience for anglers of all skill levels.
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Paddleboarding and Kayaking
Exploring Topsail Hill from the water offers a whole new perspective, and paddleboarding or kayaking is the perfect way to do it. These activities let you navigate the Gulf or the serene Campbell Lake. If you’re ready to hit the water, Topsail Outfitters has you covered. They handle all watercraft rentals, conveniently located at the Campground Store near the administration building. Rentals are available daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For pricing details or to make a reservation, give them a call at 850-660-2028.
One important thing to note: you can’t bring your own kayak, canoe, or paddleboard into the park. This rule helps protect Campbell Lake’s delicate ecosystem from invasive plants that could hitch a ride on outside equipment. All paddling activities must use park-provided rentals, which come equipped with U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets and whistles, as required by Florida law. Ready to experience the calm beauty of Campbell Lake? Let’s dive in.
Paddling on Campbell Lake
Campbell Lake offers a peaceful escape, perfect for paddling in any weather. This nearly 100-acre coastal dune lake is a rare gem, with calm, clear waters and stunning scenery. Florida State Parks describes it best: “Paddling a coastal dune lake is a special treat because these freshwater lakes are a very rare ecosystem, occurring only in a few locations around the world”.
If you’re looking for a guided experience, the park offers ranger-led canoe trips on Campbell Lake, typically starting around 9:30 a.m. They also host guided sunset paddles as part of their ranger programs. These tours not only let you enjoy the lake’s tranquility but also teach you about its unique ecology as you glide through its serene waters.
Paddleboarding in the Gulf
For those craving a bit more adventure, the Gulf of Mexico awaits. On calm, clear days, paddleboarding along the Gulf is an unforgettable experience. Outdoor Gulf Coast sums it up perfectly: “One of our favorite things to do is go for a paddle on a good calm clear day on the Gulf of Mexico”. The park’s 3.2 miles of secluded white sand beaches make for excellent launch points. Keep an eye out for dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life as you paddle along the coast.
Before heading out, check local water conditions to ensure a safe trip. If you’re taking rental equipment to the beach, be ready to transport it about a mile from the parking area. You can use the park tram, a bike, or simply walk. And don’t forget to attach a leash to your paddleboard - it’ll keep it close if you happen to fall off.
Wildlife Viewing and Nature Trails
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park spans an impressive 1,640 acres and is home to 13 species considered at risk. As part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, it features over 15 miles of marked hiking trails, making it a prime destination for nature lovers. The park's diverse ecosystems create an ideal setting for birdwatching and exploring nature.
Birdwatching and Wildlife
The park’s varied habitats attract an array of wildlife. Along the dunes, you might spot snowy and piping plovers, while blue herons, snowy egrets, and ospreys frequent the lakes. Venture into the forested areas, and you could encounter white-tailed deer, fox squirrels, and the iconic gopher tortoises. For the best wildlife activity, plan your visit between 6:30 and 8:30 a.m..
From May through October, the park’s 3.2-mile beach becomes a nesting ground for loggerhead and green sea turtles. It’s also home to the elusive Choctawhatchee beach mouse, a nocturnal creature rarely seen during the day. Be sure to pack binoculars and a zoom lens to observe and photograph these creatures respectfully from a distance.
Beach Access Trails
The park’s trails do more than showcase wildlife - they immerse visitors in its rich natural beauty. The 1-mile Beach Tram Path provides easy access to the Gulf and opportunities to spot shorebirds along the way. For a deeper dive into the park’s environment, the Morris Lake Trail offers a 2.5-mile journey through dunes and scrub habitats, where herons are a common sight.
The Deer Track Trail loops around Campbell Lake, showcasing pitcher plants, water lilies, and striking bald cypress trees. If you’re hoping to see gopher tortoises, the aptly named Gopher Tortoise Trail winds through areas filled with saw palmettos and longleaf pines. For a touch of history, the Turpentine Trail reveals "catface" pines - scars left by the turpentine industry that once thrived here. Remember to bring water, sunscreen, and bug spray, and always stick to the marked trails to help preserve this delicate ecosystem.
Planning Your Visit to Topsail Hill Beaches
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park offers a range of activities, from fishing in Campbell Lake to paddling and strolling along 3.2 miles of pristine shoreline. Open daily from 8:00 a.m. until sundown, the park provides plenty of flexibility for planning your trip. Summers bring warm temperatures, with highs around 89°F, making early mornings (between 6:30 and 8:30 a.m.) a great time to spot birds along the Gulf. Before heading out, let’s cover the essentials like fees, parking, and what to pack for a smooth experience.
Admission costs $6.00 per vehicle (for 2–8 people), $4.00 for single-occupant vehicles, and $2.00 for pedestrians or bicyclists. The beach is about 2 miles from the parking area, but you can hop on the free tram service or rent a bike from the park store for $24. Keep in mind that due to construction, the tram stop and restrooms have been temporarily relocated.
Pack smart for your visit. Essentials include sunscreen, a hat, bug spray, and a refillable water bottle (there’s a refilling station at the beach). For extra fun, bring binoculars for wildlife spotting, fishing gear (with a valid license), and snorkel equipment to explore Seahorse Reef just offshore. Always pay attention to the warning flags posted at the beach.
To protect the park’s 13 imperiled species, leave personal watercraft at home. On-site rentals are available to prevent invasive species from entering the rare coastal dune lakes. Be mindful of the park’s rules: stay off the dunes, keep pets on a six-foot leash (note that pets aren’t allowed on the beach, tram, or lakes), and avoid disturbing sea oats or local wildlife. Following these guidelines helps preserve this unique ecosystem.
When you arrive, make a stop at the ranger station to check out the schedule for activities like plant walks, campfire stories, and weekend programs. With a little preparation and respect for the environment, you’ll be ready to enjoy one of Florida’s most stunning coastal preserves.
FAQs
What gear and watercraft rentals are available at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park?
At Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, bicycles are the only on-site rental option. You can pick one up daily between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM at the park store, located near the administration building.
If you're hoping to enjoy water activities, keep in mind the park does not rent out paddleboards, kayaks, or canoes. That said, there is a convenient canoe and kayak launch for those who bring their own equipment. Planning ahead is key - make sure to bring your gear or arrange rentals from nearby outfitters before you arrive.
For those who love biking, the on-site rentals provide an easy way to explore the park's trails. It's a great opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the area on two wheels!
Are guided tours or ranger-led activities available at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park?
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park has plenty to offer when it comes to guided tours and ranger-led activities. Visitors can enjoy nature walks, engaging interpretive talks, and workshops that dive into the park's fascinating ecosystems, including its rare coastal dune lakes and the array of wildlife that call the park home.
The park also hosts specialty workshops and events, such as the Coastal Dune Lakes Workshop, where you can explore local ecology, learn about conservation efforts, and appreciate the natural beauty of the area. Be sure to check the park’s event calendar to stay updated on the latest activities and programs.
What safety tips should I follow for swimming and water activities at Topsail Hill Beach?
Before heading into the water at Topsail Hill Beach, make sure to check the daily beach flag conditions. The South Walton flag system uses a color-coded warning system: green means low hazard, yellow indicates moderate surf or currents, red signals high surf or strong currents, and double-red means the water is closed to the public. Keep in mind, entering the water during double-red flag conditions could cost you a hefty $500 fine - so it’s best to stay onshore until conditions improve. For updates, text “SAFETY” to 31279 or check local resources.
Rip currents are another thing to watch out for along the Gulf. They can often be identified by darker water, murky surf, or a narrow channel of water flowing away from the shore. If you ever find yourself caught in a rip current, don’t try to fight it. Instead, swim parallel to the shore to break free, then make your way back in. If you’re unable to escape, float, signal for help, and stay calm until help arrives.
To keep your beach day safe and fun, always swim with a buddy, stay close to lifeguard stations (available from March 1 through October 31), and keep young children within arm’s reach. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen regularly, check the weather forecast before heading out, and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated while soaking up the sun!
