Winter Events at Topsail Hill Preserve
Explore winter events at Topsail Hill Preserve: holiday tram rides, ranger-led walks, campfire music, dune-lake tours and kayak options for $6/vehicle.
Looking for a peaceful winter getaway? Topsail Hill Preserve State Park in South Walton, Florida, offers a mix of scenic beauty and seasonal activities. With 15+ miles of trails, rare dune lakes, and family-friendly events, the park is perfect for exploring during the cooler months. Here’s what you can expect:
- Holiday Fun: Santa’s Camp Christmas features Topsy’s Polar Express tram ride and holiday crafts.
- Live Music: Americana Under the Stars brings local musicians to campfire gatherings every Thursday.
- Nature Walks: Sunday Funday Ranger Days include guided tours of the park’s ecosystems and wildlife.
- Outdoor Adventures: Hike trails, rent kayaks, or join geocaching hunts across the park’s 1,640 acres.
- Educational Programs: Coffee with a Ranger blends local history with hands-on demos.
At just $6 per vehicle, the park offers affordable access to its beaches, trails, and events. Whether you’re into birdwatching, history, or holiday fun, Topsail Hill Preserve has something for everyone this winter.
Winter Events and Activities at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
Holiday Events
Santa's Camp Christmas
Santa's Camp Christmas is the standout holiday celebration at Topsail Hill Preserve, typically held in mid-December. Recent festivities took place on December 8–9, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and the best part? Admission is free, making it a budget-friendly outing for families. The event's centerpiece is Topsy's Polar Express, a whimsical tram ride that takes guests past Santa's Workshop, all the way to the North Pole, where kids can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. While there's no mandatory fee, a suggested $5 donation per person helps support the Friends of Topsail Hill Preserve. (Children aged 2 and under can ride for free if seated on an adult's lap.)
The evening is packed with other holiday-themed activities, including crafts, live music, food, and a North Pole mail station where kids can send letters to Santa. To avoid long waits for Topsy's Polar Express, it’s smart to reserve your time slot ahead of time on platforms like Eventbrite.
If you’re looking for a quieter experience, winter evenings at the park also feature live music in a laid-back setting.
Campfire Music Jams
Every Thursday, the park hosts Americana Under the Stars, a live music series around the campfire. These cozy gatherings take place at the amphitheater campfire ring and showcase talented local musicians. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors while listening to some tunes - all included with the $6 park entry fee.
But it’s not just about the music. The campfire programs also offer hands-on learning opportunities, such as campfire safety tips and cooking demonstrations. These events provide a perfect mix of entertainment and practical knowledge, making them a favorite for visitors looking to unwind and pick up a few outdoor skills.
Winter Nature Walks and Guided Tours
Sunday Funday Ranger Days
Every Sunday at 9:00 AM, park rangers host a free guided tour (standard $6 park admission applies) that dives into the rich natural and historical treasures of Topsail Hill Preserve. These tours cover a variety of topics, from the preserve's 16 unique natural communities to its 13 imperiled wildlife species, including the endangered Choctawhatchee beach mouse. Rangers also spotlight the park's rare coastal dune lakes, seasonal plants, and diverse ecosystems spread across 1,640 acres. In 2023, the park attracted over 261,000 visitors and contributed $32,626,215 to the economy, cementing its place as one of Florida’s top-performing state parks.
Coastal Dune Lake Tours
After the history-focused ranger tours, visitors can explore the park's aquatic gems. Topsail Hill Preserve is home to three coastal dune lakes - Campbell, Morris, and Stallworth. During Sunday Funday, rangers share fascinating details, such as how Campbell Lake remains 99.9% freshwater and rarely connects to the Gulf, while Morris Lake typically opens to the ocean at least once a year. This occasional connection creates a brackish habitat supporting both saltwater species like flounder and freshwater species like bass. Winter is an ideal time for birdwatching, with bald eagles, osprey, and endangered piping plovers often seen along the lakeshores. Visitors can rent kayaks or canoes at Campbell Lake for a closer look, or hop on the tram, which makes two daily stops at the lake.
Winter Hiking Trails
For those seeking their own adventure, the park offers over 15 miles of trails suited to a range of skill levels, from easy walks to more demanding dune hikes. The 2.5-mile Morris Lake Trail winds through ancient dunes, offering stunning views of Morris Lake and the Gulf, though its soft sand can be challenging. History buffs will enjoy the Turpentine Trail, where "cat-face" pines still bear scars from 19th-century turpentine harvesting. For a gentler option, the 1.5-mile Deer Track Trail meanders past Campbell Lake through sand pines, twisted oaks, and magnolias. Winter hikers might spot bald eagles near the lakes or catch glimpses of migratory warblers in the forested areas. Be sure to stick to marked paths, as parts of the Morris Lake Trail still contain exposed rebar from World War II missile testing.
Educational Programs
Coffee with a Ranger
Every week, park rangers host Coffee with a Ranger, blending a warm cup of coffee with fascinating local history. These sessions dive into topics like the endangered Choctawhatchee Beach Mouse, nesting sea turtles, the unique coastal dune lakes, and even native medicinal plants. You'll also hear stories about the park's intriguing past, from its 19th-century turpentine operations to its role in WWII rocket testing.
Held in either the clubhouse or amphitheater, these gatherings often include brief outdoor demonstrations to bring the lessons to life. For the latest schedule, check in at the ranger station or visit the Florida State Parks website.
"We're not just serving coffee; we're completing the circle of your park experience – where every cup is brewed for adventure and crafted for community." - Coastal Coffee & Café 30A
If you're looking for something more hands-on, the park’s geocaching program might be your next adventure.
Geocaching Adventures
For a more interactive and adventurous experience, the park offers a 13-waypoint geocache program as part of the Operation Recreation GeoTour. This modern treasure hunt spans over 15 miles of marked trails, where participants use latitude and longitude coordinates to uncover hidden caches. Each cache offers a peek into the natural or historical significance of its surroundings, creating an adventure that’s both engaging and educational.
Start by picking up the waypoint coordinates at the ranger station. Winter’s cooler weather makes it an ideal time to explore. Be sure to bring a fully charged smartphone or GPS device, along with essentials like water, sunscreen, and bug spray. With varying levels of difficulty, the caches cater to both beginners and seasoned geocachers.
Conclusion
Winter turns Topsail Hill Preserve into a cozy coastal getaway, perfect for exploring its 1,640 acres of natural splendor. Whether it’s festive holiday events, ranger-led programs, or outdoor adventures, there’s something to captivate every visitor during this season.
Adding to the experience are the park’s updated facilities, like the new Visitor & Nature Center. This space hosts winter workshops and exhibits that bring the park’s story to life. And with an entry fee of just $6 per vehicle, you gain access to trails, beaches, and educational programs that make every visit worthwhile.
"Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is a wonderful place to explore any day of the year." - Teresa, SoWal Guide
Whether you’re drawn to wildlife, history, or live music, winter at Topsail Hill delivers an authentic slice of Florida. With 16 distinct natural communities and 13 imperiled species, each visit is both an adventure and an opportunity to connect with nature. Make plans to visit this winter and discover the park’s unique charm and outdoor magic.
FAQs
Do I need reservations for Santa’s Camp Christmas?
Yes, you’ll need to make reservations for Santa’s Camp Christmas at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park. Don’t forget to book your Polar Express ride ahead of time to guarantee your spot!
What should I bring for winter hiking and ranger walks?
For winter hikes and ranger-guided walks at Topsail Hill Preserve, it's important to dress in layers and wear warm outerwear to stay comfortable in fluctuating temperatures. Sturdy footwear is a must, especially for uneven or icy terrain. Don’t forget the essentials: pack water, snacks, sunglasses, sunscreen, and navigation tools like a map or compass. If the trails might be icy, traction devices can be a smart addition. Always check the weather forecast and trail conditions before heading out. To stay prepared, carry basic safety gear such as a first aid kit and an emergency shelter.
Are the tram and kayak rentals available in winter?
The tram runs during the winter at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park. However, it’s unclear if kayak rentals are offered during this time.
