Topsail Hill Preserve State Park in Santa Rosa Beach, FL, nestled along the coast of Highway 30A, has a vast array of natural resources and plenty of exciting things to do. Take a day while staying in one of our homes along 30A to explore this 1,640-acre park.
Location/History
The park is located at 7525 W. Scenic Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL. Midden mounds, or discarded debris from Native American communities, indicate that the area in Topsail State Park was once used for fishing, hunting, and camping. Today, its uses are more tame, but the area remains a haven for seekers of natural beauty.
Rare Dune Lakes
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is home to three dune lakes, the incredibly rare natural phenomena that take place in only a few places around the world. The lakes that hug the Gulf of Mexico are composed of fresh water instead of the salt water that is carried in the ocean just feet away. Swimming is not recommended in the dune lakes – alligators are rare, but do inhabit the area – but one could hypothetically swim in a natural body of fresh water and then swim in a body of salt water before they were even dry!
Campbell Lake
Campbell Lake is one such lake in Topsail. Canoes can be rented at the Campground Store, and you may also bring your own kayak. Canoe rentals are $35 for four hours and $55 for the day. Please note that you’re not allowed to bring your own canoe to the park because of the possibility of invasive species being introduced to the area.
Fishing
Both fresh and saltwater fishing are plentiful at Topsail State Park. Try your luck at one of the dune lakes, or cast a line into the big, beautiful Atlantic Ocean. Pompano, redfish, and Spanish or king mackerel have all been caught in these waters. Keep in mind that you may need a fishing license for some fishing.
Beach Activities
3.2 miles of white sand and untouched beach beauty stretch in front of you at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park in Santa Rosa Beach, FL. Whether you’re going for a swim or just enjoying a picnic on the beach, you can pass hours of time while relaxing on the cusp of the Gulf of Mexico.