Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Fees and Hours
Open daily 8:00 a.m.–sundown. Day-entry, camping, bungalow and cabin rates, annual passes, senior discounts, and late-arrival gate instructions.
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, located in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, offers incredible natural beauty with coastal dune lakes, old-growth pines, and 3.2 miles of white-sand beaches. Open daily from 8:00 a.m. until sundown, the park provides a variety of activities, from hiking to camping. Here's a quick breakdown of fees and key details:
- Day-Use Entry Fees:
- $6 per vehicle (2–8 people)
- $4 for a single occupant vehicle or motorcycle
- $2 per pedestrian or cyclist
- Camping Fees:
- RV Sites: $42/night + $7 utility fee + $6.70 reservation fee
- Tent Sites: $24/night + $6.70 reservation fee
- Discounts: Florida residents 65+ or with qualifying disabilities receive 50% off base camping rates.
- Bungalows and Cabins:
- Bungalows: $100–$120 per night (seasonal rates)
- Cabins: $130–$145 per night (seasonal rates)
- Additional $7 utility fee and $6.70 reservation fee apply.
Annual passes are available starting at $60, offering unlimited day-use entry for frequent visitors. Plan ahead, especially for camping, as reservations fill up quickly. For late arrivals, call 850-267-8330 before 5:00 p.m. to get gate access instructions.
This park is a must-visit for its serene landscapes and outdoor experiences. Whether you're stopping by for the day or staying overnight, knowing the fees and hours ensures a smooth visit.
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Fees Guide - Entry, Camping, and Lodging Costs
Park Hours
Daily Hours
The park welcomes visitors every day from 8:00 a.m. until sundown. It stays open year-round, including holidays, with no seasonal changes to its schedule. Keep in mind that sundown times shift throughout the year, so day-use visitors must leave the park by sundown. Campers with a valid gate code, however, are permitted to stay overnight.
Late Arrival for Campers
If you're a camper planning to arrive after sundown, you'll need to make prior arrangements. Call the park at 850-267-8330 before 5:00 p.m. local time on the day of your arrival to get the gate code and detailed entry instructions. Once inside, remember that quiet hours are observed from 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. throughout the campground.
Day-Use Entry Fees
Vehicle Fees
The cost to enter the park by vehicle is $6.00 per car for groups of 2–8 people. If you're driving solo or arriving on a motorcycle, the fee drops to $4.00. These payments are collected at the entrance gates, conveniently located at the intersection of Highway 98 and Highway 30A.
For families with young children, there's good news: kids under 6 enter free at all Florida state parks, including Topsail Hill Preserve. Not traveling by car? Here's what you need to know about pedestrian and cyclist fees.
Pedestrian and Cyclist Fees
If you're walking or biking into the park, the fee is $2.00 per person. This same $2.00 charge applies to any additional passengers beyond the eighth in a vehicle or to those accompanying someone with an Annual Individual Entrance Pass.
During the summer, Walton County Tourism has often covered day-use admission fees from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. As Tourism Director Matt Algarin put it:
"Our state parks are hidden gems in Walton County, and being able to showcase their majesty through this program is tremendous."
These fee waivers are a great perk, but they’re seasonal. Be sure to double-check the latest details before planning your visit.
Camping Fees
RV Sites
Staying at an RV site will cost $42 per night, plus tax. On top of that, there’s a $6.70 nonrefundable reservation fee and a $7 nightly utility fee. These sites come with full hookups, including water, sewer, electricity (with options for 20, 30, or 50-amp connections), and digital cable. The park features 156 RV sites spread across four loops, accommodating RVs up to 45 feet long.
Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance. Since the park is popular and often fully booked throughout the year, it’s a good idea to plan ahead. If you’re looking for a simpler camping experience, tent sites are also available at a lower rate.
Tent Sites
Tent camping costs $24 per night, plus tax and the $6.70 nonrefundable reservation fee. These sites are equipped with water and electric hookups (20 and 30-amp), an elevated tent pad, and a fire ring for campfires. The park has 22 tent sites located on a separate loop, providing access to nearby restrooms and showers.
Florida Resident Discounts
Florida residents who are 65 or older, individuals with a Social Security or 100% disability award certificate, and families running a licensed Florida family foster home qualify for a 50% discount on the base rate for RV or tent sites. This discount applies to the $42 RV site rate or the $24 tent site rate but does not reduce the $7 utility fee or the $6.70 reservation fee. To claim the discount, eligible guests must present a Florida driver’s license or ID card and any required documentation at check-in.
TopSail Hill Preserve State Park Campground Tour, Cabins & Tents. Santa Rosa Beach, Florida
Bungalow and Cabin Fees
The park offers cozy on-site lodging options for visitors looking for more comfort than camping provides:
Bungalows
Bungalows can host up to four people and are priced at $100 per night (Aug 1–Jan 31) or $120 per night (Feb 1–Jul 31). Additional costs include taxes, a $6.70 nonrefundable reservation fee, and a $7 nightly utility fee.
Each bungalow is well-equipped with a queen-size bed, a sleeper sofa, a full kitchen stocked with major appliances, a bathroom, a dining area, a living room, and a private carport. Guests also enjoy cable TV, and there's a Wi‑Fi hotspot conveniently located near the campground store.
Cabins
Cabins are a larger option, accommodating up to six people. Rates are $130 per night (Aug 1–Jan 31) or $145 per night (Feb 1–Jul 31), plus taxes, a $6.70 reservation fee, and a $7 nightly utility fee.
These two-bedroom, two-bathroom units feature one queen bed, two twin beds, and a queen-size pull-out sofa. Additional amenities include a screened porch, picnic table, outdoor grill, and a fully equipped kitchen. Note: A two-night minimum stay is required, and pets are not allowed.
Both bungalows and cabins come with access to the park's heated swimming pool, tennis courts, shuffleboard, fitness room, laundry facilities, and a tram service to the beach. These accommodations provide a comfortable way to enjoy the natural beauty of the park.
Annual Passes and Fee Comparisons
Annual Pass Benefits
For those who visit regularly, an annual pass can be a cost-effective choice. The Individual Annual Entrance Pass is priced at $60 and allows unlimited day-use entry for the passholder for an entire year starting from the purchase month. The Family Annual Entrance Pass, costing $120, extends this benefit to groups of up to eight people, whether arriving by vehicle, on foot, or by bicycle.
With the Individual Pass, the passholder gets free entry, while any accompanying guests pay a reduced fee of $2 per person, instead of the standard vehicle rate. These passes expire at the end of the purchase month one year later, meaning you could enjoy up to 13 months of access if you buy early in the month.
There are also discounts for military personnel and foster families. Active duty members, honorably discharged veterans, and individuals with service-connected disabilities receive a 25% discount, making the Individual Pass $45 and the Family Pass $90. Additionally, military survivors and families licensed under Florida DCF foster care can receive free annual passes when proper documentation is presented in person.
To avoid additional costs, consider purchasing passes in person. Online purchases include a $6 convenience fee and a $10 shipping fee per pass. Keep in mind that annual passes cover day-use entry only - they don’t include extras like camping, boat tours, or special events.
Fee Comparison Chart
An annual pass begins to pay off after a certain number of visits. For someone driving alone, the Individual Pass breaks even after about 15 visits (at $4 per visit). If you're traveling with a group of 2–8 people, the Family Pass becomes worthwhile after about 20 visits (at $6 per visit). For pedestrians or bicyclists, the cost of the pass is justified after approximately 30 visits at $2 per entry.
The table below highlights the savings when comparing daily entry fees to the benefits of an annual pass:
| Entry Method | Group Size | Daily Fee | Annual Pass Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle | 1 person | $4 | Included with Individual or Family Pass |
| Vehicle | 2–8 people | $6 | Included with Family Pass |
| Vehicle | Individual Pass Holder + 1 guest | $4 total | Pass covers holder; guest pays $2 |
| Pedestrian/Bike | 1 person | $2 | Included with Individual or Family Pass |
| Pedestrian/Bike | Up to 8 people | $16 total | Included with Family Pass |
Conclusion
This guide breaks down the essentials of Topsail Hill Preserve State Park's fees and hours, making it easier to plan your visit. The park is open year-round, welcoming guests daily from 8:00 a.m. until sundown. If you're camping and plan to arrive after dark, be sure to call ahead for gate access instructions.
Entry fees are straightforward - refer to the fee schedule above for details. Florida residents who are 65 or older or have qualifying disability certifications can enjoy a 50% discount on base camping fees. For budget-conscious travelers, booking bungalows or cabins between August 1 and January 31 - the off-peak season - can provide significant savings.
If you're staying overnight, keep in mind the $6.70 nonrefundable reservation fee and the $7 nightly utility fee, which apply to RV sites, bungalows, and cabins. Being aware of these costs helps you plan your trip without surprises, allowing you to fully enjoy the park's 1,640 acres of stunning beaches and camping areas.
Whether you're heading out for a day at the beach or planning a longer camping getaway, knowing the park's pricing and hours ensures a seamless experience. For more details on camping and lodging options, check the fee sections above.
FAQs
Do I need cash, or can I pay by card at the entrance?
You can use a card to pay at the entrance of Topsail Hill Preserve State Park. Payments can be made online or directly at the park, and there's no requirement to pay with cash only.
How early should I book camping or a cabin to get a spot?
If you're planning a trip to Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, make sure to book your camping or cabin reservations as early as you can - ideally up to 11 months in advance. These spots are highly sought after and often sell out within minutes of being released. Early planning is key to ensuring you snag your spot.
What amenities are included with RV sites, tent sites, cabins, and bungalows?
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park offers a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences, including RV sites, tent sites, cabins, and bungalows. Each option comes equipped with water, electricity, sewer hookups, and fire rings for convenience and comfort. Guests also have access to restrooms and showers, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst nature.
