St. Andrews State Park

White sandy beaches and crystal clear waters of the northern Gulf of Mexico await all who come to St. Andrews State Park. This military base turned Florida state park has nearly two miles of pristine beach on the Gulf of Mexico. The Grand Lagoon area is perfect for kayaking and snorkeling.

Two fishing piers give anglers a chance to enjoy the park. Hikers will find the several miles of trails to be filled with diverse wildlife and rare forests. What ever fun outdoor activity you do, you're sure to spend the night at the parks full-facility campground for the ultimate ending-or beginning to a great Florida family fun outdoor adventure.

The beach area is gorgeous white sugar sand and some of the softest found anywhere in the world. Two and a half miles of beachfront sand ensures you and your family will have plenty of beachfront property all to yourselves for the day. Sunbathers, beachcombers and swimmers all find St. Andrews State Park to be one of the best parks in the state.

A boat ride across to Shell Island is offered by the parks concession shuttle service. Spring and summer services only, but you can take your own vessel over from the mainland. Kayakers find this to be a fun afternoon adventure year round. A boat ramp with double-sided launches offers visitors a chance to launch and recover two vessels at the same time. From the largest of ocean fishers to the smallest of kayaks, you're sure to get your boat in or out of the water quickly.

But you don't have to get your feet wet to enjoy St. Andrews State Park. Hikers will love the two amazing trails that wind their way through the backwoods of this fantastic state park. Both the Gator Lake and Heron Pond trails take you beyond the dunes and beaches and into the freshwater dune lakes that are so rare and fragile. The trails skirt the remains of a hundred year old turpentine mill and offers scenic views of the lakes.

The full-facility campground is split into two sections or loops. Each campsite is complete with electricity, water a picnic table, fire ring and grill. Bring your tent or RV up to 45 feet in length and enjoy laundry facilities, showers and restroom facilities for the perfect end to a great day.

For more information on directions to the park, hours of operation or fees, visit the official St. Andrews State Park website here.