Camp Helen State Park
Welcome to Camp Helen State Park, the Florida state park and historic site that sits just west of Panama City Beach, bounded on one side by the Gulf of Mexico and the other by Lake Powell, one of the largest coastal dune lakes in the state.
This park allows guests to explore 'an environment rich in natural and cultural resources', offering fun activities such as swimming, hiking, and fishing for all ages. Over the entire 180 acres of the park, you can also comb the beach, kayak, paddleboard, study nature, and explore historic elements such as prehistoric middens and mounds and restored lodges and cabins once used onsite.
Historically speaking, this land shows signs of being inhabited over 4,000 years ago (hence the prehistoric mounds), though more recently the site was used as a company resort for the Alabama textile mill Avondale Mills. It served this purpose from 1945 to 1987, and today you can still see some of the restored buildings from this era. You can also see the historic Loch Lomond Lodge, Rainbow Cottages, and other various historic elements within the Visitor Center and throughout the various interactive exhibits.
We highly suggest your group take part in some light hiking, the North Trail looping 1.8 miles, and the Oak Canopy Trail 0.5 miles. You will see a scrub oak forest, prickly pear, sand and slash pine, saw palmetto, and much more. If you are looking to learn more about the flora and fauna of the park sign up for any possibly happening ranger-guided hikes, educational experiences, or historic tours while here.
