Post Trip Review of Topsail Hill Preserve State Park

We made it home in one piece and a better understanding of what relaxation really is. We traveled 1,800+ miles, spent 11 consecutive nights in the RV, brought back 15lbs of Seafood in the Freezer and came away with a new appreciation for small spaces and two crazy kids. It was awesome.

There are a lot of reviews on Topsail as its a popular place to go, so I thought I would throw out my take on the place here.

First Impressions....Having never stayed at a RV resort (Yes, it is a state park campground, however it WAS a former private resort) it immediately felt different than any other state park we have been to. It was extremely clean and 100% paved roads and concrete pads. All sites have full hookups including cable television.

The Camp Store is located close to the entrance and while small in size, it had the basics including ice, ice cream and some basic RV supplies. There was a good amount of books and items relating to the preserve and wildlife. With the close proximity of a nearby Publix Grocery and Mega Low Mart, it's logical why this camp store is not overflowing with inventory.

The park is segmented into a few different sections. The oldest area is near the front, furthest away from the beach. However, it is closest to the Pool and Shuffleboard area. The second more shaded section is just to the West. These sites are desirable with lots of shade and this area contains a good size laundry center. This area is also close to the beach tram that run every 1/2 hour until sunset. The third RV area is where we stayed. This is the area to get. I believe its called the "Palm Circle".  This section is set up more like a neighborhood. While the sites are close, they are divided with lush vegetation so it really seems private. There is also in-ground sprinklers to keep everything nice and green so watch out where you put your towels!

There is a very nice Tent area that is fairly new as well. It is by far one of the best designed Tent camping that I have ever seen. Very well thought out and private. There also is a section of cabins and cottages in the far western section that offer 1 and 2 bedroom accommodations. Some with wraparound screen rooms.

The Beach is by far the best aspect of this park. without question this is the nicest beach I have ever been to. Other than the boardwalk that takes you to the beach, there is Zero indication of human interaction within the three mile stretch in the park. Access to the beach is by foot, bike or the tram. By bike its about a 5 minute ride. There are bathrooms and changing facility's at the foot of the Boardwalk. There are also showers to wash off the sand and ample bike parking.

You can't offer a honest review of something without highlighting the negatives and while there are not many to this place there are a few. The Shower-houses and restrooms need an update. They are not super clean and seemed to have an issue with overflowing toilets. This included the Pool Bathroom. With all the RV sites having full hookups, this is not much of an issue but for the Tent area it would be a big one. That's about it!

I would not hesitate for a second to return. The drive from St. Louis is a long one and does require a significant investment in time, however, everything about this spot exceeded my exceptions of what a Beach RV trip should be.