How to Access SoWal’s Coastal Dune Lakes Locals Guide

Along the pristine shores of South Walton beaches, the area is home to an extraordinary feature: 15 rare coastal dune lakes. These remarkable freshwater lakes are unique to this region and offer a glimpse into the intricate balance of local ecosystems. Let us guide you along this beautiful, visually stunning strip of local beaches. You’ll be glad you did!

Their history is as captivating as their beauty. They formed during the last Ice Age when ancient sand dunes trapped rainwater. The lakes provide vital habitats for various wildlife. They are perfect spots for visitors to explore by hiking or biking, relax, and engage in recreational activities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or bird-watching.

What is The Best Way to See the Coastal Dune Lakes

Here’s a friendly guide to the 15 Coastal Dune Lakes in South Walton Beaches, Moving from right to left. If you really want to take it all in, you should consider renting an e-bike for The Timpochee Trail, which stretches some 19 miles from Dune Allen Beach past 12 of our beach neighborhoods, State Parks, and these lovely dune lakes. Plan on spending the day doing this activity, get on the beach, and have some rooftop dining along the way!

If hiking and biking aren’t your thing, there are plenty of excellent options for accessing these lakes. Dune Lake access is listed below, but may we offer a few suggestions if you want to be on the water and not look at it?

Number one and just my personal favorite are State Parks, which have walkable paths and places like Grayton Beach State Park with a Rental Shop, Western Lake paddling access options at The Boathouse, and Lake Powell (Camp Helen State Park). Rentals are excellent ways to sit in a kayak or stand on a SUP paddleboard.

Can I fish on The Coastal Dune Lakes?

Yes, you can fish on nine of the Coastal Dune Lakes in South Walton. These lakes offer a variety of fishing opportunities, making them excellent spots for both novice and experienced anglers. You can fish off the shores, on some bridges, or in a kayak.

• Fuller Lake:
  • Access: By reservation for free only through Coffen Nature Preserve. Phone: 850-622-3700
  • Location: 146 Coffen Hill Rd, Santa Rosa Beach. (Google Maps View & Directions)
• Morris Lake & Campbell Lake:
  • Access: Both are located in Topsail Hill Preserve State Park; no private vessels are allowed.
  • Rentals: Canoe, kayak, and paddleboard available at The Ranger Station. Entrance fee: $6.
  • Location: 7525 West Scenic Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach.
• Stallworth Lake:
  • Access: There is no public access, though it touches Topsail Hill. It is small and empties into the Gulf along the beach if you happen to be there. You can see it partially from 30A.
  • Location: Santa Rosa Beach.
• Allen Lake:
  • Access: Limited access from Scenic Hwy. 30A. as you pass Stinky’s Fish Camp.
  • Location: Scenic Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach-Dune Allen Beach.
• Oyster Lake:
  • Access: Limited access is available near the footbridge and along Scenic Hwy. 30A.
  • Location: Scenic Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach-Dune Allen Beach.
• Draper Lake:
  • Access: No public access.
  • Location: Blue Mountain Beach.
• Big Redfish Lake:
  • Access: Small undeveloped county easement trail on Blue Lake Road; limited parking.
  • Location: Blue Lake Rd, Santa Rosa Beach – Blue Mountain Beach.
• Little Redfish Lake:
  • Access: Limited access off Scenic Hwy. 30A. Entrance fee: $4 through Grayton Beach State Park.
  • Location: 357 Main Park Rd, Santa Rosa Beach-Grayton Beach.
• Alligator Lake:
  • Access: Very limited access along Scenic Hwy. 30A (steep incline). Entrance fee: $4.
  • Location: 357 Main Park Rd, Santa Rosa Beach-Grayton Beach.
• Western Lake:
  • Access: Most explored dune lake with parking and boat ramp at Grayton Beach State Park. Entrance fee: $4.
  • Location: 357 Main Park Rd, Santa Rosa Beach-Grayton Beach.
• Eastern Lake:
  • Access: County Park with parking, picnic tables, grill, and boat launch.
  • Location: Corner of Lakewood Drive and Lakeview Drive. -Seagrove Beach
• Deer Lake:
  • Access: Scenic boardwalk to the beach. Entrance fee: $4 through Deer Lake State Park.
  • Location: 6350 East County Rd 30A, Santa Rosa Beach-Seagrove Beach.
• Camp Creek Lake:
  • Access: Limited access along Scenic Hwy. 30A.
  • Location: WaterSound.
• Lake Powell:
  • Access: Predominantly in Bay County; entrance to County park and boat ramp facility via Publix in Bay County. Entrance fee: $4 through Camp Helen State Park.
  • Location: Inlet Beach.

Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend adventure or a visitor eager to explore nature’s beauty, Walton County’s a lake waiting for you! So grab your kayak, pack a picnic, and enjoy these lakes’ serene landscapes. A very romantic setting in many of these tranquil and rare coastal settings.

SoWal’s Coastal Dune Lake FAQs