Camp Helen State Park

Camp Helen State Park is a coastal park between Lake Powell and the Gulf of Mexico, spanning 185 acres in the Panama City area of Florida. The land features dunes, salt marshes, and other natural habitats typical of Florida's Panhandle shoreline.

Native American groups occupied this area for over 4,000 years, leaving behind shell mounds and other archaeological sites scattered throughout the park. These remains provide evidence of ancient coastal settlement in the region.

From 1945 to 1987, this property served as a vacation resort for employees of the Avondale Mills textile company, and you can visit restored buildings that reflect how workers spent their leisure time here. The structures provide insight into recreational life during that industrial era.

The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, with entry fees charged per vehicle or person. Plan time to explore the trails and shoreline at a relaxed pace, and bring water since shade can be limited in some areas.

Lake Powell, contained within the park, is Florida's largest coastal dune lake and periodically opens to the Gulf of Mexico through natural channels. This intermittent connection creates changing water conditions and diverse ecosystems.

Location: Florida

Inception: 1996

Website: https://floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/camp-helen-state-park

GPS coordinates: 30.27570,-85.99050

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:44