Q: Our scout troop is looking for a place where we can actually camp on the beach -- not near the beach, but actually on the beach. Are there such campgrounds or state parks, preferably in the northwestern section of Florida (because we will be coming from Mississippi) where such camping is allowed?

A: I haven't done much camping in northwestern Florida, so whatever I tell you will be what I have read and what I have heard from others.

It looks as though camping right on the beach in the Panhandle is limited. For one thing, these beautiful Gulf of Mexico beaches are somewhat protected at most state parks because they don't want to erode the dunes. Also, most people prefer camping in shady, private spots where they can either roll up a camper or RV, or put tent stakes down. All of these elements are impossible on a sandy beach, so that's another probable reason for the dearth of beach camping spots.

There apparently are some beach campsites at St. Andrews State Park in Panama City Beach.

Camping merely near the beach isn't so bad. You might want to check out the campgrounds suggested below under camping, "Where to camp near the beach in the Florida Panhandle."

Have fun, and let me know if you find other places with beach campsites.

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