Information
Landmark: Big Lagoon State ParkCity: Pensacola
Country: USA Florida
Continent: North America
Big Lagoon State Park, Pensacola, USA Florida, North America
Overview
In Pensacola, Florida, Big Lagoon State Park stretches across 705 acres, where saltwater meets pine forest and visitors come for its stunning scenery, rich wildlife, and endless ways to explore outdoors.The park stretches along the north side of Big Lagoon, where you can take in wide-open views of marshes, scrubby flatwoods, tall pine forests, and winding tidal creeks glinting in the sun.Since 1977, Big Lagoon State Park has been a haven for local and migratory wildlife, drawing nature lovers, hikers, and birdwatchers to its quiet trails where the air smells faintly of salt and pine.Big Lagoon State Park bursts with life, from saltwater tidal marshes shimmering in the sun to quiet stretches of coastal scrub and the tall, resin-scented pines of its flatwoods.These habitats teem with plants and wildlife, from bright wildflowers to darting dragonflies, offering an ideal spot for watching nature and exploring the outdoors.The park sits along the Great Florida Birding Trail, drawing birdwatchers with flashes of scarlet cardinals and the chatter of countless other species.More than 23 kinds of migratory birds pass through here, from bright wood-warblers flitting in the trees to ducks on the water, sandpipers along the shore, and black-bellied plovers stepping through the mud.You might spot ospreys gliding overhead, pelicans skimming the waves, and a mix of other coastal birds.Top sights and things to do, like strolling past the old stone clock tower.In the park, a three-story observation tower rises above the trees, offering wide, breathtaking views of Big Lagoon, the shimmering Intracoastal Waterway, and the landscape that stretches beyond.From the tower, you can watch hawks ride the wind, snap striking photos, and soak in the park’s sweeping views.Number two.At Big Lagoon, you’ll spot herons gliding over the water-it’s a true paradise for anyone who loves birds.Migratory flocks and year-round locals share the park’s trees, from darting warblers to the steady call of a mourning dove.You might see herons stalking the shallows, egrets flashing white in the sun, or ibis picking through the reeds, along with migratory visitors-warblers darting in the brush, ducks gliding past, and sandpipers skimming the shoreline.From the tower, you can spot hawks gliding overhead, and the park’s trails and tucked-away viewing spots offer plenty more chances to watch birds.Number three.The park sits right on Big Lagoon, so it’s easy to launch a boat, slip into a kayak, or paddle a canoe across the calm, glassy water.The park’s boat ramp and canoe or kayak launch make it easy to slip into the lagoon’s calm waters and paddle toward the wide, shimmering stretch of the Intracoastal Waterway.Big Lagoon sits along the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail-a 1,515‑mile route that winds around the state’s coastline-making it an ideal spot to push off for a kayaking trip, with the smell of salt in the air and calm water at your bow.Number four stood alone, bold and dark, like ink pressed hard into the page.In Big Lagoon State Park, folks come for the fishing and crabbing, often casting lines into the calm, blue water at sunrise.You can cast a line from the grassy banks of Long Pond, the quiet edge of Grand Lagoon Lake, or anywhere along the wide Intracoastal Waterway.You can reel in bass, hook a lively bluegill, or pull up a hefty catfish from these waters.The park’s lagoon is a popular place for crabbing, where visitors wade into the shallow water and drop their lines.Five.The park has little stretches of sand along the still waters of the Intracoastal Waterway, perfect for a swim or just lying back with your feet in the cool shallows.These calm spots are great for slipping into the cool water or stretching out on the sand with the sun on your face.Number six.Big Lagoon State Park offers more than five miles of trails for hiking and biking, winding through pine forests and marshes so visitors can immerse themselves in its varied ecosystems.The trails twist through shady pine forests, weave past salty coastal scrub, and cut across quiet wetlands, where you might catch a heron lifting off or simply soak in the wild beauty up close.You can ride the park’s 2.5-mile paved road, winding past the lagoon and its glassy water, with the hills rising in the distance.Seven.The park has 75 campsites, each with 30/50-amp electric hookups, running water, a sturdy picnic table, and a fire ring ready for crackling logs.Tucked among tall, whispering pines, the campsites offer a quiet spot that’s perfect for setting out to explore the park.The campground offers restrooms, hot showers, and a dump station, so it’s easy for tent campers and RV travelers alike to settle in after a dusty day on the road.You can bring your pets to the campground, but your RV can’t be longer than 40 feet-about the length of a city bus.The park makes accessibility a priority, with smooth boardwalks you can roll along and beach wheelchairs ready for visitors who need them.A few of the campsites have smooth, level paths that make them easy to reach in a wheelchair.The park offers 15 picnic pavilions scattered across its grounds, ranging from cozy shelters perfect for a family lunch to wide, breezy spaces that can host a crowd.You can rent these pavilions for family get‑togethers, picnics, or any group event-picture a table covered in sandwiches and lemonade under the shade.Amphitheater: The park’s amphitheater seats up to 250, with rows of curved benches rising like steps toward the open sky.You can rent it for events, and it’s perfect for outdoor performances, lectures, or casual gatherings under the open sky.Restrooms and showers are kept spotless, with warm water and fresh towels ready for campers and day visitors alike.Entrance fees are $6 per vehicle with 2–8 people, $4 for solo drivers, and $2 for pedestrians or cyclists; annual pass holders pay $2 for each extra passenger.Camping costs $20 a night plus tax, with a non-refundable $6.70 reservation fee and a $7 nightly utility charge for RVs, cabins, boats, and similar facilities-tent campers skip that fee.Florida residents age 65 or older, or those with a disability certificate, get half off campsite fees, though reservation and utility fees still apply.Boat launch runs $10 for one person, $12 for groups of 2–8.Renting the picnic pavilion costs $150 per day; amphitheater prices vary.Big Lagoon State Park opens daily at 8 a.m. Central Time and closes at sunset, when the sky glows amber over the water.Wildlife thrives in the park, so pack your binoculars and watch for both local birds and seasonal visitors-maybe you’ll spot a bright goldfinch in the trees.From the tower, you can watch hawks wheel overhead and snap some stunning photos.Insect protection: Mosquitoes and other bugs are common in the park, especially on warm summer evenings when you can hear them buzzing by your ears.Pack some insect repellent so you don’t end up swatting at mosquitoes while hiking or relaxing by the water.If you’re planning to camp or rent a pavilion, book ahead-spots fill fast during holidays and busy summer weekends.Big Lagoon State Park bursts with natural beauty and variety, inviting visitors of every age to kayak its calm waters, hike shady trails, and explore its wide-open beaches.You can boat, fish, hike, watch for herons, or just stretch out by the water’s edge-the park offers a quiet escape and miles of untouched scenery to wander through.With its teeming wildlife, quiet stretches of shoreline, and inviting spots to hike or paddle, it’s the perfect place to soak in Florida’s coastal beauty.
