Good news for outdoor adventure lovers; two of South Walton's most stunning state parks are free to enter this summer. No catch and no coupon needed.
Yup, you read that right. Walton County Tourism is covering day-use admission to Topsail Hill Preserve State Park and Grayton Beach State Park from Memorial Day weekend (May 22, 2026) through Labor Day (September 7, 2026).
That's 3+ months of free access to miles of pristine beach, coastal dune lakes, hiking trails, and some of the most unspoiled scenery on the Gulf Coast.
This is the 12th year Walton County has covered admission to Topsail and the 10th for Grayton Beach (thanks guys!). It's become one of the best perks of spending the summer on 30A.
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
Location: 7525 W. Scenic Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach | Open 8 a.m. to sunset
If you've never been, Topsail is the one that stops people in their tracks. Old-growth longleaf pines, dunes rising over 25 feet, three rare coastal dune lakes, and 3.2 miles of beach that feels like you've stepped back in time.
Why it's worth the trip:
- 15+ miles of trails through pine flatwoods and scrub habitat, great for birding (look for ospreys, snowy plovers, and Eastern bluebirds)
- Kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing on the coastal dune lakes
- Bike or tram to the beach, no car needed once you're in
- Accessible beach wheelchairs and elevated boardwalks
Grayton Beach State Park
Location: 357 Main Park Road, Grayton Beach | Open 8 a.m. to sunset
Grayton Beach State Park has been one of Florida's most beloved parks for decades, and it's easy to see why. A mile of white sand beach, a 100-acre coastal dune lake (Western Lake), and a laid-back vibe that matches the town it's named after.
What to do here:
- Kayak or paddleboard Western Lake (tip: you can rent gear right at the ranger station)
- Hike or bike 4+ miles of flatwood trails
- Surf fish or cast from the lake
- Grab one of the picnic pavilions at the beach and make a full day of it
Skip the parking headache and take the beach tram
This summer, Walton County Tourism's Beach Tram is adding service to both parks. It's free, it's easy, and honestly it's a better way to arrive. Routes and schedules will be posted at WaltonTransportation.com as they're finalized.
