Main Page - Camp Helen State Park » Florida State Parks

A photo of the log building known as the Lodge.

Manager's Message

This fall, come explore our unique park. Truly a hidden gem, Camp Helen is a beautiful getaway destination.
Visit the lodge and relax in the rocking chairs as you look at Lake Powell. Listen to the stories of the park’s history or share some of your own. Enjoy a nice stroll down the nature trail, or simply take time to enjoy a walk on the beach. Camp Helen is also a great fishing spot, so bring your gear!
If you are interested in taking part in our volunteer program, come by on any Thursday morning about 9 am. For information regarding joining the Friends of Camp Helen please e-mail ocarlson@o1c.net or pick up an application in our Visitor's Center!
Camp Helen has had a long and varied history, come experience a piece of it!
We look forward to seeing you! Please come and enjoy the real Florida.
- Daniel Blanner, Park Manager

Welcome to Camp Helen State Park

The park is bordered on three sides by the Gulf of Mexico and Lake Powell– one of the largest coastal dune lakes in Florida. Coastal dune lakes are extremely rare worldwide; in the United States they occur only along the Gulf Coast. Prehistoric middens and mounds indicate that humans lived in the area more than 4,000 years ago. From 1945 until 1987, Camp Helen was a company resort for employees of an Alabama textile mill and some of the buildings are now being restored. Natural areas range from coastal dunes and salt marshes along the Gulf to freshwater wetlands and sand pine scrub along the lake.

Camp Helen SP is a day use only park with neither overnight accomodations nor camping.

Activities include swimming, beachcombing, nature study, hiking, and both freshwater and saltwater fishing. Located west of Panama City Beach just inside Bay County, on U.S. 98 at the west end of the Lake Powell bridge.

Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Camp Helen State Park, please call 850–233–5059.

Hours of Operation

Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.

Driving Directions

Camp Helen is located at 23937 Panama City Beach Parkway,Panama City Beach, FL, just west of the Phillips Inlet bridge on the Bay County and Walton county line. The entrance is South of U.S. Hwy 98 and approximately 6 miles west of State road 79.