Fort Pickens Area Of Gulf Island National Shore
Located on the emerald-blue waters of Pensacola Beach, Gulf Islands National Seashore Fort Pickens Area is home to miles of sugar-fine sand and nature-infused beaches.
For history lovers, there’s so much to explore at this national park. Ranger-guided talks and walks take you into Fort Pickens and Fort Barrancas plus other war history sites to learn more about the Civil War. Up next is Pensacola Aviation Discovery Park
Gulf Islands Beaches
Gulf Islands National Seashore is a beautiful area to explore with miles of sand and water. You can hike, swim, kayak, and fish in this amazing Florida panhandle area!
Fort Pickens is a historic fort with a campground and fishing pier. It's a must-see for history buffs, particularly those interested in US military history from the War of 1812 to World War II.
Across the bay on the mainland is Fort Barrancas, another fascinating piece of history that you can tour.
You can find beach access along Fort Pickens Road in a few spots, but the only one with basic facilities (restrooms and a picnic pavilion) is Langdon Beach.
Gulf Islands Camping
Whether you prefer to camp in a tent or a motorhome, there are plenty of opportunities for you at Fort Pickens Area Of Gulf Island National Shore. The park features a campground with more than 200 campsites for RVs and tents.
Camping in the Gulf Islands has its benefits, not the least of which is being able to experience nature first-hand. You can enjoy a relaxing day on the beach or explore the many hiking trails and historical attractions.
The park is home to several historic forts and gun batteries, including Fort Pickens. Visitors can learn about the military history of the fort and Santa Rosa Island through tours of the fort and its ramparts.
Gulf Islands Hiking
The Fort Pickens Area Of Gulf Island National Shore offers a plethora of hiking opportunities. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, fitness fanatic, or history buff, this section of the national park offers miles of the pristine gulf and sound beaches, snaking roads, and nature trails to explore.
This area is a migratory hotspot for Snowy Plovers, Least Terns, and Black Terns in spring and fall. The beach here is prime for nesting birds as well. Additional info
The fort and surrounding trails offer this area's most exciting birding. A wide range of rarities, including Olive-sided Flycatchers and Bewick's Wren has been recorded here.
Fort Pickens Fishing
Whether you're a veteran angler or just starting out, there are plenty of fishing opportunities available in the Fort Pickens Area Of Gulf Island National Shore. There are many different species of fish to target, and the waters are often teeming with marine life.
You'll also want to check out the Fort Pickens Aquatic Preserve. This protected aquatic area is a rich habitat for bottlenose dolphins as well as thousands of fish and shellfish.
The historic fort and its surrounding areas offer a unique look at American history. The imposing fort, which was built in 1829 and 1834, still stands on Santa Rosa Island. It's also home to Battery Pensacola, which was added to the fort's defensive complex in 1899.
Fort Pickens Bike Trails
If you are a biker, there are several trails within the Fort Pickens Area Of Gulf Island National Shore. These trails are not only great for fitness, but they are also a fun way to explore the beautiful area of Pensacola Beach and Fort Pickens.
A designated bike lane begins at the entrance to Fort Pickens and continues up to the Ranger Station. This is about four miles long.
