White sand beaches and warm Gulf Coast waters await campers on St.
George Island.
St. George Island is a 28-mile-long barrier island off Eastpoint, Florida. Unlike similar Panhandle beach destinations, the St. George Island area is so undeveloped that its nickname is the Forgotten Coast. That’s great news for campers who come here to enjoy natural white sand beaches and azure Gulf Coast waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and boating. St. George Island visitors share the water with loggerhead turtles, dolphins, manatee, and a variety of tropical fish. Over 300 species of local and migratory birds utilize the island too, and morning shelling on the beach is top-notch, especially at Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park.
St. George Island Surrounds
St. George Island has wide white sand beaches and a handful of markets and restaurants in town to fuel your beach days. Kayak, canoe, and stand-up paddleboard rentals are available here for adventures on Apalachicola Bay or the Gulf. There are also fishing charters and tackle shops. Camping options are limited on the island, but nearby Eastpoint and Apalachicola make great basecamps for exploring St. George Island. Both cities have RV parks with full hookups and wifi.
Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park
At the east end of St. George Island, the Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park is a must-visit day trip or camping destination. This park features bluffs overlooking the Gulf, excellent stargazing, nature trails for both hiking and biking, and bird residents like brown pelicans, bald eagles, and plovers. The campground here has RV camping and tent camping sites with fire pits, picnic tables, and restrooms. Pavilions with grills are available to all park users. There is also primitive camping here at Gap Point that’s accessible via a 2.5-mile hike or kayak paddle.
Apalachicola River Wildlife and Environmental Area
For a break from the beach and a deeper wilderness experience, the nearby Apalachicola River Wildlife and Environmental Area has almost 100 miles of unpaved roads you can hike, bike, or horse ride. The park’s Paddling Trail System also has close to 100 miles of waterways for canoeing and kayaking. With over 250 types of wildflowers and 280 species of native birds, this WEA is a true subtropical wonderland. Primitive camping is available.
St. George Island camping is pleasant in the fall, winter, and spring. Summer is also doable, but campers should prepare for heat, humidity, and the possibility of rain during this time—summer campers may be most happy in a setup with a fan or AC. Folks traveling in the summer or fall hurricane seasons should keep an eye on the National Hurricane Center’s Atlantic forecast for advanced storm warnings.