T.H. STONE MEMORIAL
ST. JOSEPH PENINSULA STATE PARK

By  Mike Miller June 6, 2025

OVERVIEW

T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park is in Port St. Joe, Florida. It covers 2,716 acres on a 20-mile peninsula.

The park features white sand beaches and tall dunes. Visitors enjoy swimming, fishing, kayaking, and camping.

It’s a haven for wildlife, including sea turtles and shorebirds. The park is known for its serene Gulf Coast views. 

St Joe BeachSt. Joe Beach

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Native Americans, including the Weeden Island culture, lived here centuries ago. The Spanish named St. Joseph Bay in the 1500s.

In 1701, they built Presidio Bahía de San José near St. Joseph Point. The French invaded in 1718, establishing Fort Crevecouer. Spain retook the area in 1719.

A new presidio became the capital of Nueva Asturias until 1722. In 1940, the Stone family sold the land for military training. The park opened in 1967.

Hurricane Michael split the peninsula in 2018, but it has since partially recovered. 

VISITING DETAILS

The park is at 8899 Cape San Blas Road, Port St. Joe, FL 32456. From US-98 east, turn onto SR 30A, then SR 30E to the park.

It’s open daily from 8 AM to sunset. Call (850) 227-1327 for information. The Gulf Breeze and Shady Pines campgrounds within the Park offer 119 sites with water and electric hookups.

Eight cabins are available on the bay side. Reserve through the Park’s website. Three trails, including the 1.6-mile Bayview Nature Trail, offer hiking.

Kayaks and canoes launch from Eagle Harbor’s boat ramp. Avoid summer bugs by visiting in winter or fall. Check for post-hurricane closures at their website. 

INTERESTING FACTS

  • The park was named America’s best beach in 2002 by Dr. Beach.  
  • Over 240 bird species, including snowy plovers, nest here.  
  • The peninsula was cut in two by Hurricane Michael in 2018.  
  • Endangered St. Andrews beach mice live in the dunes.  
  • Scalloping season runs from July 1 to September 24.  
  • A 10-mile bike path connects the park to Cape San Blas.  
  • The Wilderness Preserve has 14 primitive campsites, some kayak-accessible. 

WEBSITE FOR T.H. STONE MEMORIAL
ST. JOSEPH PENINSULA STATE PARK

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