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Beach bonfire at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
State Park

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park

Near Dune Allen Beach, FL · South Walton / 30A

Beach Access Guide

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is home to some of the tallest coastal dunes on the Gulf of Mexico, rising up to 25 feet above the beach. This 1,640-acre preserve protects one of the last undeveloped stretches of coastline in Northwest Florida, featuring 3.2 miles of pristine beach that feels like stepping back in time.

What makes Topsail Hill unique is the tram system that transports visitors from the campground and parking area down to the beach. The ride through the coastal forest and over the towering dunes builds anticipation for the spectacular beach reveal. The beach itself is wide, white, and almost always uncrowded — it's one of the best-kept secrets on 30A.

The park includes three rare coastal dune lakes — Campbell Lake, Morris Lake, and Stallworth Lake. These globally rare ecosystems support unique plant and animal communities and offer excellent kayaking and fishing opportunities. The campground is one of the most sought-after in Florida, with both RV sites and bungalow rentals.

The pristine, undeveloped nature of Topsail Hill makes the surrounding Dune Allen Beach area feel more natural and wild than other parts of 30A. Guests who visit the park often want to extend their evening with a bonfire on the nearby public beach, combining a day in nature with an evening around the fire.

Access Details

Type
State Park
Nearest Community
Dune Allen Beach
Parking
Park entrance requires $6 per vehicle. The main parking area has approximately 75 spaces. A tram runs from the parking area to the beach. Florida State Parks Annual Pass ($60) provides unlimited access.
Amenities
  • Restrooms
  • Outdoor showers
  • Beach tram
  • Campground (156 sites)
  • Bungalow rentals
  • Nature trails
  • Kayak launch
  • Picnic areas
  • Camp store
Beach bonfire near Topsail Hill Preserve State Park

Bonfires

Bonfires at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park

Bonfires are NOT permitted within Topsail Hill Preserve State Park. The nearby Dune Allen Regional Beach Access and Van Ness Butler Jr. Regional Beach Access provide excellent bonfire alternatives just outside the park. We recommend combining a park day with an evening bonfire on the public beach.

Local Tips

Tips for Visiting Topsail Hill Preserve State Park

The tram to the beach runs on a schedule — check current times at the ranger station. The last tram back is typically at sunset, so plan accordingly if you're visiting for the day and doing a bonfire afterward. The campground bungalows are a fantastic accommodation option and are within walking distance of the beach and nearby bonfire locations.

FAQ

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Questions

Can I have a bonfire at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park?

No, bonfires are not permitted within the state park. However, the nearby Dune Allen Beach and Van Ness Butler Jr. regional accesses are excellent bonfire spots just minutes from the park entrance.

How do I get to the beach at Topsail Hill?

A tram system runs from the parking area through the dunes to the beach. The ride is about 10 minutes and is a scenic experience in itself. The tram runs on a schedule, so check times at the ranger station.

Can I camp at Topsail Hill Preserve?

Yes! Topsail Hill has 156 campsites including RV sites with full hookups and bungalow rentals. This is one of the most popular campgrounds in Florida — book well in advance for peak season.

How much does Topsail Hill Preserve cost?

Entry is $6 per vehicle (up to 8 passengers). Camping fees vary by site type and season. A Florida State Parks Annual Pass ($60) covers daily entry to all Florida state parks.

Nearby

Beach Bonfires in Dune Allen Beach

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is located near Dune Allen Beach. Learn more about bonfire experiences in the area.

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