The Best Public access to nature reserves in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida

Welcome to the William J "Billy Joe" Rish Recreation Area, located at 6773 Cape San Blas Road in Port St. Joe, Florida, United States. This 100-acre park offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors of all abilities. The park features boardwalk access to the beach, bay, swimming pool, and nature trail, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Two family-style cabins are available for reservations, providing a comfortable and convenient place to stay for those looking to explore the park.

Kellogg Bayside Park is a stunning waterfront park located at 1112 Nellie Drive, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. This park offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Choctawhatchee Bay and provides easy access for kayaks, canoes, and stand up paddle boards. Visitors can enjoy amenities such as a vessel ramp, picnic tables, shower, water fountain, and water spigot. The park, which was generously deeded by the late Pat Kellogg in 2003, spans 10 acres and is dedicated to wildlife preservation and education. The development of the park is a collaborative effort between the Choctawahatchee Basin Alliance, Walton County Public Works, and Parks and Recreation.

Splash RV Resort & Waterpark is a luxurious campground and park located at 8500 Welcome Church Road in Milton, Florida. Just off I-10 and only 23 minutes from Navarre Beach, Splash offers year-round family fun for locals, travelers passing through, and snowbirds looking to escape the colder months. With a mix of top-tier resort amenities and exciting vacation activities, Splash is the perfect destination for all types of guests. Enjoy live music, holiday celebrations, and themed weekends throughout the year. Plus, take advantage of the fastest-growing campground sport for free!

The Shoreline Wetlands Trail Boardwalk in Gulf Breeze, Florida is a stunning park offering visitors the opportunity to explore a diverse ecosystem filled with wildlife. This elevated boardwalk stretches over a third of a mile through wetlands to the beach shoreline, providing a unique and immersive nature experience. The project includes ADA parking and beach access, as well as a nature viewing gazebo with bench seating. Mayor Cherry Fitch praised the project as a crucial extension of the city's conservation efforts, made possible through support from various organizations and government officials. With a total project cost of nearly $1 million, funding sources include grants from the Florida DEP, non-tax dollar reserves from the City of Gulf Breeze, and contributions from Santa Rosa County Tourism Development and local commissioners. Visit the Shoreline Wetlands Trail Boardwalk for a memorable outdoor adventure in a beautiful natural setting.