If you haven't yet had the pleasure of visiting the Florida Panhandle, then you may be surprised to learn that those shimmering emerald waters aren't the only defining feature of this region. Beyond a touristy beach town is a down-to-earth culture. Wide-open land, quiet, untouched beaches, and forests set the backdrop for unlimited exploration.
If you're planning an overnight, camping, or day trip near Eglin AFB or your military family is looking for a place to unplug in nature after a week of hard work searching for homes for sale near Eglin AFB, here are a few places to venture.
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1. Black Water River State Park
Approximately 45 minutes northwest of Eglin AFB is the Black Water River State Park. Flowing 57 miles toward the ocean, this Florida river mixes with the saltwater of the East Bay and turns a brown or blackish color, giving the river its name.
Freshwater and saltwater ecosystems make for a uniquely fun and exciting day of fishing. The state park offers recreational rentals. However, you can also take advantage of the Whiting Park Recreational Area, as they offer rentals to military members at a discounted rate.
Paddle along calm stretches of the river in a canoe or kayak, go boating or tubing, cast a line for local fish species, or explore the park's trails on foot. Camping is also available for families who want to extend their stay and enjoy a night under the Florida stars.
2. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
Take a break from the tourist-filled beaches of Destin and Panama City with three miles of pristine white sand at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park. Sitting just 40 minutes east of Eglin AFB, this spot serves as an easy day-trip destination. However, it can also serve as a place to spread out for longer if needed.
Offering over 170 campsites catering to both tent and RV campers, as well as bungalows and cabins, Topsail is a beautiful backdrop for a weekend away. Hiking through the 15 miles of trails and exploring the 1,600 acres of pine forests, coastal dune lakes, and wetlands will do everyone in the family some good.
3. Eglin FAMCAMPS
Don't underestimate the value of your backyard. Eglin AFB offers an abundance of recreational facilities. Camp Robbins and Postl Point are great options if you're looking to plug into nature without the fuss of hopping in the car for a few hours to spend a weekend away from Eglin AFB.
If you only have one night to escape your responsibilities, Elgin's FAMCAMPS offer the perfect balance of leaving your stress behind without creating more of it. Plus, if you add a paddleboarding adventure to the itinerary, you'll feel energized in no time.
Niceville is a popular area for military families due to its proximity to Eglin AFB. Take a tour of home for sale and houses for rent in Niceville, FL.
4. Fort Pickens
A little over an hour west of Eglin AFB is Fort Pickens. This Gulf Shore fort was built in the 1800s to defend Pensacola Bay from foreign attacks. This unique piece of history sits south of the city and offers a fun area to explore, dive into the history books, fish, and camp. Don't miss the historical tours.
5. Florida Caverns State Park
Embrace a unique side of this region at Florida Caverns State Park, less than two hours from Eglin AFB. Head into the underground caverns and experience a chilly climate while you explore stalagmites, stalactites, flowstones, and more.
Beyond the caverns, visitors are welcome to hit the park's trails. Hiking, biking, and horseback riding are a few favorite ways to enjoy the park's natural beauty.
Find more fun activities for the whole family in our post 13 Things to Do Near Eglin AFB.
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6. Point Washington State Forest
Leave the beach behind and venture off into the woods at Point Washington State Forest, 45 minutes from Eglin AFB. Composed of sandhills, basin swamps, wet flatwoods, and prairie, it offers a beautiful backdrop for exploring a variety of ecosystems.
Head out on one of the trails, by foot or on a bike, and you might even get to see rare creatures like the American kestrel, gopher tortoise, and the flatwoods salamander. The trails connect nearby state parks like Grayton Beach State Park, Deer Lake State Park, and Topsail Hill State Preserve.
If you want to make a trip out of it, pack a tent to stay overnight. The Eastern Lake Campground can be found at mile marker four on the Eastern Lake Trail. Or, if you're looking for a more rugged experience, reserve one of the four primitive sites.
7. Apalachicola National Forest
Located about three hours southeast of Eglin AFB is the Apalachicola National Forest. Surrounded by beautiful trees and numerous ecosystems, visitors can enjoy biking, hiking, horseback riding, hunting, and more.
Campsites are an option for those interested in spending the weekend in the open air, along with cabins available for reservation.
Military families need that escape from the daily grind from time to time. While there are numerous ways to unplug and feel rejuvenated, heading out into nature is one of the best ways to do it when you're stationed at Eglin AFB. It's hard to beat the beautifully diverse terrain unique to the Florida Panhandle.
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