Camp Helen State Park

Camp Helen State Park

Camp Helen State Park, located on the far western edge of Panama City Beach, is a unique 180-acre natural and historical gem bordered by the Gulf of Mexico and Lake Powell, Florida's largest coastal dune lake. This distinctive blend of freshwater and saltwater ecosystems, where the lake occasionally breaches into the Gulf, supports diverse wildlife and offers a variety of recreational activities such as swimming, beachcombing, hiking through distinct natural communities, and both freshwater and saltwater fishing. Beyond its ecological significance, Camp Helen boasts a rich history, with evidence of human habitation dating back over 4,000 years, and from 1945 to 1987, it served as a company resort for Avondale Mills employees, with some of its historic buildings, including the lodge and rainbow cottages, now restored and open to visitors, even hosting events like weddings and history tours.