There are plenty of things to do in Panama City Beach.
For those who love nature and history, Camp Helen State Park is one place not to miss. It is just a short drive from our Panama City Beach condo rentals; it makes a perfect day trip for the whole family.
Camp Helen State Park Florida
You might be surprised to learn that humans have inhabited Camp Helen State Park in Florida for at least four thousand years. Florida’s original Indigenous inhabitants, known as the Deptford culture, have been identified by pottery remains and other physical evidence they left behind. Today, pottery can still be found around the park!
When Europeans first arrived in Florida, the area went relatively unnoticed until the 20th century when McCaskill Investment Co. published pamphlets inviting people to visit the Intel Beach Hotel. Soon, people were attracted to this lovely, isolated little corner of the Florida Gulf Coast.
After the hotel burned down in 1931, the area was repurposed several times. First, it was intended to become a retirement complex, then a private property used for family celebrations, then as a vacation camp for employees of a cotton mill and fabric manufacturer. In 1996, Florida purchased Camp Helen and opened it to the public in 1997 as a state park. Today, it is a splendid place to enjoy stunning scenery, hiking, fishing, and more.
Camp Helen State Park Information
Camp Helen State Park is a 180-acre park for day use only. It is bordered by the Gulf of Mexico on one side and Lake Powell on the other. It is located just over the Phillips Inlet Bridge and close to the border of Walton County.
To visit the park from Panama City Beach, follow US-98 E northwest. It is an approximately 20-minute drive from downtown, and the camp is located at 23937 Panama City Beach Parkway. Opening hours are from 8 a.m. until sunset 365 days a year. Fees are $4 per vehicle and $2 per pedestrian or bicyclist.
Experience Camp Helen State Park
Camp Helen State Park is somewhat of an ecological wonder. Not only does it offer diverse natural communities such as mesic Flatwoods, scrub oak, basic swamp, and depression marsh, but it is bordered by Lake Powell, one of the largest rare coastal dune lakes found in the world. The park separates Lake Powell from the Gulf of Mexico. Still, sometimes it breeches that split of land, which results in fresh and saltwater mixing to create “brackish” water.
This natural beauty can be explored through birding, fishing, hiking, paddling, Panama City Beach wildlife viewing, and swimming. Camping is not allowed, but fortunately, the park is close enough to the city that you can come back time and time again to experience everything.
Birdwatchers looking for local species will appreciate numerous shorebird and migratory species spotted in the park. Anglers can fish in both the Gulf of Mexico and Lake Powell, allowing them to catch the best of both saltwater and freshwater fish. The Oak Canopy Trail allows hikers to explore the dense canopy of maritime hammocks overlooking a salt marsh. Anyone wanting to get out on the water will find kayak rentals available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., weather permitting.
Picnic pavilions are available for anyone hoping to share a meal. Additional amenities include parking, shower station, restroom facilities, beach, and visitor center. Regular tours are available for those who are interested in learning a more in-depth history of the area. There are also guided nature hikes that explore the diversity of the park’s ecosystems. History tours occur the first Saturday of every month from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., while natural tours are offered the first Thursday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Tours are free with the cost of admission to the park, and anyone wanting to join can simply meet up at the visitor center several minutes beforehand.
Plan Your Visit
Contact the team at Dunes of Panama to book your beach getaway. Browse our full condo catalog to find your home away from home!
Stay in Our Panama City Beach Condo Rentals
Fortunately, the park is just a short drive away from our Panama City Beach condo rentals. For the best accommodation, consider staying at the Dunes of Panama oceanfront condominiums. Guests receive immediate access to beautiful white beaches, as well as incredible views of the Gulf and stunning sunsets. After staying in one of our Panama City Beach condo rentals, you won’t want to leave!
