Grayton Beach State Park is a beautiful and popular state park located in the Florida panhandle, near the town of Santa Rosa Beach.
It is a popular destination for beachgoers and nature lovers, and is a great place to spend a day or a weekend enjoying the outdoors.
Unique features of Grayton Beach State Park
The park covers more than 2,000 acres and features over a mile of pristine, white sand beach along the Gulf of Mexico.
One of the unique features of Grayton Beach State Park and the surrounding area are the presence of coastal dune lakes.
Grayton Beach State Park is located along the Gulf of Mexico and is home to a number of coastal dune lakes, which are a unique and rare type of lake that is found in only a few places in the world, including the Florida panhandle.
Coastal dune lakes are freshwater lakes that are formed by the interaction between the land and the sea.
They are fed by rainwater and are connected to the Gulf of Mexico by underground channels, which allow saltwater to flow in and out of the lakes.
This interaction between freshwater and saltwater creates a unique and diverse ecosystem that supports a wide range of plant and animal species.
The coastal dune lakes at Grayton Beach State Park are a popular spot for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking, and are home to a variety of species, including bass, bream, and catfish.
The park also has a number of hiking and biking trails that wind through the dunes and forests, providing opportunities for visitors to explore the park’s diverse ecosystem.
If you are interested in exploring the coastal dune lakes of the Florida panhandle, Grayton Beach State Park is a great destination to visit.
Cabins at Grayton Beach State Park
The park also has a number of rental cabins and yurts available for those who want to stay overnight.
Grayton Beach State Park has a number of rental cabins available for visitors who want to stay overnight in the park.
The cabins are situated among the dunes and trees, providing a peaceful and natural setting for your stay.
There are four types of cabins available at the park: standard cabins, deluxe cabins, beachfront cabins, and pet-friendly cabins.
The standard cabins are basic and rustic, with no electricity or running water.
They have a porch, bunk beds, and a picnic table, and are equipped with a propane stove and lantern for lighting.
The deluxe cabins have electricity, heating and air conditioning, and a full bathroom, as well as a kitchenette with a refrigerator, microwave, and coffee maker.
The beachfront cabins are located right on the Gulf of Mexico and have all of the amenities of the deluxe cabins, as well as a private deck with a grill.
The pet-friendly cabins are located a short distance from the beach and are equipped with all of the amenities of the deluxe cabins, as well as a fenced-in yard for your pets.
The cabins at Grayton Beach State Park are a great option for those who want a more rustic camping experience, but with a few more amenities and comforts.
They are a popular choice for families, couples, and small groups, and can be reserved online through the Florida State Parks website or by calling the park directly.
The cabins at Grayton Beach State Park are located within a short distance of the beach, but the exact distance can vary depending on which type of cabin you are staying in.
The standard and deluxe cabins are located a short walk from the beach, while the beachfront cabins are located directly on the Gulf of Mexico.
The pet-friendly cabins are located a little farther from the beach, but are still within walking distance.
All of the cabins at the park are situated among the dunes and trees, providing a natural and peaceful setting for your stay.
They are a popular choice for those who want to be close to the beach, but also want a little more privacy and seclusion.
There are also fees for the rental cabins and yurts, which range from $50 to $165 per night depending on the type of accommodation and the season.
It’s important to note that these fees are subject to change, so it’s a good idea to check the Florida State Parks website or call the park directly for the most up-to-date information.
RV Camping at Grayton Beach State Park
Grayton Beach State Park does have a campground that accommodates RV camping.
The campground has 60 sites with electric and water hookups, as well as a dump station.
The sites are situated among the dunes and trees, providing a natural setting for campers.
All of the campsites and rentals are within walking distance of the beach and the park’s amenities, including showers, restrooms, and a playground.
If you’re planning to visit the park with an RV, it’s a good idea to make a reservation in advance, as the campground can fill up quickly during peak season.
You can make a reservation online through the Florida State Parks website or by calling the park directly.
The fees to enter Grayton Beach State Park vary depending on the type of vehicle you are driving and the length of your stay.
For a single-occupant vehicle, the fee is $6 per day. For vehicles with 2-8 people, the fee is $12 per day.
There is also a fee of $4 per person for pedestrians, bicyclists, and extra passengers.
In addition to the entrance fee, there are also fees for camping at the park. The fee for an RV site with electric and water hookups is $36 per night, while the fee for a tent site is $24 per night. There is also a $7 per day utility fee tacked on by the state that began in 2022.
There are also fees for the rental cabins and yurts, which range from $50 to $165 per night depending on the type of accommodation and the season.
It’s important to note that these fees are subject to change, so it’s a good idea to check the Florida State Parks website or call the park directly for the most up-to-date information.
Pets at Grayton Beach State Park
Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times and are not allowed in designated swimming areas or in any of the park’s buildings.
They are also not allowed on the sand dunes or in the designated nesting areas of threatened or endangered species.
It’s important to note that Florida state parks have a “pack it in, pack it out” policy, which means that you are responsible for cleaning up after your dog and disposing of their waste properly.
There are usually designated areas for dog waste disposal located throughout the park, but it’s always a good idea to bring extra bags and be prepared to clean up after your pet.
If you plan to bring your dog to Grayton Beach State Park, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the park’s rules and regulations before your visit to ensure that you and your pet have a safe and enjoyable experience.
There are conflicting sources of information on whether or not dogs are allowed on the beach at Grayton Beach and Grayton Beach State Park – as of December, 2022, they are not allowed.
How to get to Grayton Beach State Park
Grayton Beach State Park is located in the Florida panhandle, near the town of Santa Rosa Beach.
The park is about 30 miles west of Panama City and about 20 miles east of Destin.
To get to the park from Panama City, take US-98 west towards Destin.
After about 30 miles, you will see the entrance to the park on your left. If you are coming from Destin, take US-98 east towards Panama City and the park will be on your right.
Grayton Beach State Park is located on the Gulf of Mexico and is easily accessible from major highways and roads in the area.
It is a popular destination for beachgoers and nature lovers, and is a great place to spend a day or a weekend enjoying the outdoors.
Things to do near Grayton Beach State Park
There are a number of things to do and see near Grayton Beach State Park, whether you are interested in outdoor activities, dining, shopping, or cultural attractions. Some of the popular activities and attractions in the area include:
- Spend a day at the beach: Grayton Beach State Park is known for its beautiful white sand beach and clear, turquoise waters, making it a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
- Go hiking or biking: The park has a number of trails that wind through the dunes and forests, offering visitors the chance to explore the park’s diverse ecosystem.
- Visit the town of Seaside: Located just a few miles from the park, Seaside is a charming and picturesque town with a number of boutiques, galleries, and restaurants.
- Go fishing: The area is known for its excellent fishing, with a variety of species found in the Gulf of Mexico and the coastal dune lakes.
- Visit the Seaside Repertory Theatre: This local theater company offers a variety of live performances, including plays, concerts, and movies.
- Explore the history of the area: The town of Seaside is home to the Seaside Institute, which offers a variety of educational programs and cultural events, as well as the Seaside Museum and Cultural Center, which tells the story of the town’s history and development.
These are just a few of the many things to do and see near Grayton Beach State Park.
Whether you are interested in spending a day at the beach, exploring the natural beauty of the area, or experiencing the local culture and history, there is something for everyone in the Florida panhandle.
Living near Grayton Beach State Park
Living near Grayton Beach State Park in the Florida panhandle can be a wonderful experience, especially if you enjoy spending time in nature and being close to the beach.
The area is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and diverse ecosystems, and is a popular destination for beachgoers, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
The town of Santa Rosa Beach, in Walton County, Florida, which is located just a few miles from the park, is a charming and picturesque community with a variety of local boutiques, galleries, and restaurants.
The town is also home to a number of recreational facilities, including parks, playgrounds, and golf courses, as well as a number of cultural and educational institutions, such as the Seaside Institute and the Seaside Museum and Cultural Center.
The Florida panhandle is known for its warm and sunny climate, with mild winters and hot, humid summers.
The area is prone to occasional hurricanes and tropical storms, which can bring heavy rain and strong winds.
Overall, living near Grayton Beach State Park in the Florida panhandle can be a great experience for those who enjoy spending time outdoors and being close to the beach.
The area offers a unique and relaxed way of life, with a strong sense of community and a wide range of recreational and cultural activities.
Vintage Airstream food trucks near Grayton Beach
Grayton Beach State Park and the surrounding real estate market
The real estate market in the area near Grayton Beach State Park can vary depending on a number of factors, including location, property type, and market conditions.
The Florida panhandle, and the town of Santa Rosa Beach in particular, is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and diverse ecosystems, which make it a popular destination for vacationers and second home buyers.
As a result, the real estate market in the area can be competitive, with demand for beachfront properties and vacation rentals often outpacing supply.
That being said, the real estate market can fluctuate and it’s a good idea to do your research and work with a real estate agent who is familiar with the local market to get a sense of current conditions and trends.
Factors to consider when evaluating the real estate market in the area include the type of property you are interested in, the location of the property, and the current demand for similar properties in the area.
Overall, the real estate market in the Florida panhandle can be a good investment for those who are looking for a vacation home or rental property, or who want to live in a beautiful and natural setting close to the beach.
It’s a good idea to do your research and work with a local real estate agent(like us!) to find the best property for your needs and budget.
