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Big Lagoon State Park: A Coastal Haven

Discover coastal beauty and outdoor adventures at Big Lagoon State Park, a gateway to Florida's natural wonders near Pensacola.

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Big Lagoon State Park, located near Pensacola, Florida, offers a diverse range of outdoor activities and natural beauty. With its saltwater marshes, pine flatwoods, and access to the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, it's a prime spot for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

A brief summary to Big Lagoon State Park

  • Monday 8 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-8 pm
  • Friday 8 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching, especially during the spring and fall migrations.
  • Check the park's website for updates on campground renovations and reopening dates.
  • Consider renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the lagoon and saltwater marshes.
  • Visit the observation tower for panoramic views of the park and surrounding area.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy at the West Beach picnic area, shaded by pines and oaks.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Big Lagoon State Park is located at 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy, Pensacola, FL 32507. From Pensacola, head east on East Cervantes Street, then turn right onto North Alcaniz Street, continuing onto East Garden Street. Turn left onto Barrancas Avenue/FL-292 W and continue. Turn left onto Bauer Road until you see the park entrance. The entrance fee is $6 per vehicle for 2-8 people, $4 for a single-occupant vehicle, and $2 for pedestrians or bicyclists. Parking is available within the park. Be aware that parking for cars with boat trailers is available at the boat launch. RV parking is not specifically designated. Note: As of February 1, 2025, the campground is closed for renovations.

  • Public Transport

    While there are bus stops near Big Lagoon State Park, the closest one is a significant distance away. The Blue Angel Pkwy & Gulf Beach Hwy (East) stop is approximately 7565 yards from the park, an 88-minute walk. Due to the distance, using a taxi or ride-sharing service from the bus stop to the park entrance is recommended. Taxi/ride-share cost from that bus stop to the park entrance is estimated to be $15 - $25. The entrance fee is $6 per vehicle for 2-8 people, $4 for a single-occupant vehicle, and $2 for pedestrians or bicyclists.

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Discover more about Big Lagoon State Park

Big Lagoon State Park, a 705-acre coastal park acquired by the Florida Park Service in 1978, is located on the northern shoreline of Big Lagoon, approximately 10 miles southwest of Pensacola. This natural haven separates the mainland from Perdido Key and the Gulf of Mexico, offering visitors a diverse landscape ranging from saltwater tidal marshes to pine flatwoods. The park's history stretches back to prehistoric times, with evidence of Native American occupation dating back to 800 BCE. These early inhabitants utilized the area's fertile waters for shellfish foraging. In more recent history, the land was home to Miss Ivey, who ran a fast-food restaurant out of a mobile home in the mid-20th century, serving burgers to local anglers and beach visitors. Today, Big Lagoon State Park is a gateway for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, boating, fishing, camping, hiking, and paddling. The park also marks the beginning (or end) of the 1,515-mile Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail, a sea kayaking journey around the entire state. Birdwatchers will delight in the park's designation as a site on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, with opportunities to spot a wide array of bird species, especially during spring and fall migrations. The park's natural communities attract diverse wildlife. Climb the three-story observation tower for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, from towering dunes to low-lying swamplands. Explore the trails, rent a kayak or paddleboard, or simply relax on the beach. Big Lagoon State Park offers something for everyone seeking to connect with nature and experience the Real Florida. Amenities include accessible amenities, an amphitheater, a beach, a boat ramp, campgrounds, canoe/kayak launch, parking, picnic areas, a playground, restroom facilities, and a shower station. Note that the campground is currently closed for renovations as of February 1, 2025.

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