The campground at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is private and secluded, and most campsites are partly to fully shaded by adult pines and other shade trees. Out of about 175 total campsites, 20 are set aside for tent camping -- the rest are for RVs and trailers only -- and these tent sites are grouped together at the southwest corner of the camping area. The sites are about half a mile from the beach and within walking distance of a group of small fishing lakes open to all campers.
The tent campsites at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park all have picnic tables, campfire rings, 16-foot tent pads and room to park at least one vehicle. Water and 15-amp electrical hookups are available at all sites, and campers have access to modern restroom facilities with flush toilets and hot showers. A camp store sells snacks, firewood and various camping supplies, and regularly-scheduled tram rides carry guests from the campground to the beach.
Fishing in the small campground lakes can be productive for bass, bluegill and catfish, and you can also try your luck on the coast for various saltwater species. A current Florida fishing license is required. You can explore the park on nature trails and paved bike paths, or head down to the 3.2-mile sandy beach for swimming, sunbathing and beachcombing. Opportunities abound for nature viewing and photography, and you may spot alligators, sea turtles and countless bird species. Canoes and kayaks are available for rental at Campbell Lake, one of several coastal dune lakes in the park.
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is open for camping year round, and you can reserve a campsite by phone or online through Reserve America (reserveamerica.com). Unreserved sites may be claimed on a first-come, first-served basis, but the campground can fill up quickly, making reservations a wise choice. Pets are permitted in the campground, but must be leashed and cleaned up after. Campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings. Due to the risk of introducing invasive species, you may not bring a boat into the park.
