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4.5

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97 Reviews

Reviewed Sep. 8, 2019

Beautiful Campground

This campground was beautiful! Lots of natural elements and wildlife. Plan ahead, they book up very fast especially for the summer months. We stayed in loop A. It was very sandy and had a lot of trees yet we weren't really shaded ever. Plenty of space but not all spots are easy to maneuver in to. Bring bug spray and sun screen. The beach is about a quarter of a mile walk each way but beautiful especially in the evening for sunset. If you like history the Fort Pickens site is worth it. Also, you can see the Blue Angels fly for free from the bay side of Fort Pickens but of it's something you really want to see I would suggest making the trip to the museum on the main land. Bring singles as there is a toll bridge.

  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Amanda B., September 8, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Amanda B., September 8, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Amanda B., September 8, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Amanda B., September 8, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Amanda B., September 8, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Amanda B., September 8, 2019
Reviewed Aug. 16, 2019

WOW!!!!!

We were excited to be able to grab a couple nights stay here and we were not disappointed. By far probably my family's favorite camp site ever and we've been to a lot. Pretty much right on the beach (white sand)! Not far from the forts and they are really awesome to go explore! Very private and away from any city lights and noise. Look ahead to book your spot, not a lot of sites with shade and it is nice to have. You will not be disappointed if you stay here!

Reviewed Aug. 2, 2019

So close to the beach

Amazingly beautiful campground. Not much to do other than walk across the road to the Gulf of Mexico!!!!! Clean bathrooms

Reviewed May. 23, 2019

Lovely

Never had a problem here and always very relaxing! The sites are spacious and unique. Close to water and there is parking for company. Personnel are always very nice and the camp shop is very convenient!

Reviewed Apr. 29, 2019

Excellent as always

This was my third trip to Pickens and it was amazing as always.

*The camping store is closed until they can find someone to run it. Wood and ice can be bought at the Tom Thumb just outside the park or at Walmart/Publix in Gulf Breeze.

*Battery Cooper Rd was closed so those two batteries are inaccessible.

*Loops B/D no longer have electric or dedicated water (there is a water spigot every few sites). Tent sites D24, D25, B6 have the best shade and space.

*We stayed at A15 (right next to walking trail entrance) and my best friend on A14. Other good shaded sites on this loop are A4 (grass not level enough for tents), A6, A12, A19, A21, A24, A26, A35 (next to dumpsters though), A36 (okay but not great).

*You can no longer hang anything from trees or power poles (hammocks, clotheslines etc). You also cannot having a shower looking tent (we have one for a changing tent only—no toilet or shower—and they made us take it down). Max two tents or camper and one tent per site (awnings/pop up shelter over picnic table don’t count towards the two).

*I didn’t peek into the restrooms in loops B-E. A-loop restrooms were a little dated but clean and functional. The laundry/dish washing station was stellar.

*There are dump stations (one in loop A and one for B-E) but no sewer hook ups per site.

*The price for getting into Gulf Island National Seashore is now $20 and it’s a 7 day pass.

*The campground now gives out two slips at check-in. One is for your car and one is to keep with you after 8pm so you don’t get kicked out of the area after dark.

Everyone was very nice and helpful.

  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
Reviewed Apr. 29, 2019

Excellent as always

This was my third trip to Pickens and it was amazing as always.

*The camping store is closed until they can find someone to run it. Wood and ice can be bought at the Tom Thumb just outside the park or at Walmart/Publix in Gulf Breeze.

*Battery Cooper Rd was closed so those two batteries are inaccessible.

*Loops B/D no longer have electric or dedicated water (there is a water spigot every few sites). Tent sites D24, D25, B6 have the best shade and space.

*We stayed at A15 (right next to walking trail entrance) and my best friend on A14. Other good shaded sites on this loop are A4 (grass not level enough for tents), A6, A12, A19, A21, A24, A26, A35 (next to dumpsters though), A36 (okay but not great).

*You can no longer hang anything from trees or power poles (hammocks, clotheslines etc). You also cannot having a shower looking tent (we have one for a changing tent only—no toilet or shower—and they made us take it down). Max two tents or camper and one tent per site (awnings/pop up shelter over picnic table don’t count towards the two).

*I didn’t peek into the restrooms in loops B-E. A-loop restrooms were a little dated but clean and functional. The laundry/dish washing station was stellar.

*The price for getting into Gulf Island National Seashore is now $20 and it’s a 7 day pass.

*The campground now gives out two slips at check-in. One is for your car and one is to keep with you after 8pm so you don’t get kicked out of the area after dark.

Everyone was very nice and helpful.

  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Sonyia W., April 29, 2019
Reviewed Feb. 23, 2019

Beautiful beaches

My husband and I tent camped at fort Pickens campground in February, 2019. We were able to use our senior national park pass to get in for free and a discount on our site. This is a busy park due to beaches and the actual old fort Pickens buildings, but the campsites were fairly peaceful. We were less than a 10 minute walk from the beach and walked about 30 minutes to the old fort. The showers were separate from the bathrooms and what you might expect for a beach, the water was nice and hot. There is supposed to be a store, but it was closed when we were there. There is a book store in the old fort. The beach and water were just beautiful.

  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Deborah C., February 23, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Deborah C., February 23, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Deborah C., February 23, 2019
Reviewed Feb. 11, 2019

Awesomeness !

Gorgeous white sand beaches a short walk from the campground. Clean, great hot showers, level asphalt pads, water and electric, dump station on site. Campground IS dog friendly, although the beach is Not dog friendly. There’s a very small dog beach area (on leash only), a short drive away at Pensacola-west Beach ( clearly marked for dogs).

  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Janet S., February 11, 2019
Reviewed Feb. 8, 2019

Good but not very private

We went tent camping for two nights with our pups at Fort Pickens and we really did enjoy it. The campground was nice and clean. They had nice showers and potties as well. The showers in the RV section have better shower heads btw. The beaches are gorgeous! A tip for travelers with pets, FL does not allow dogs on their beaches accept in specific "dog park" locations. Our dogs are not.. eh, normal .. so we ended up driving down to a private beach so they could enjoy the ocean. There is a lot of night life but We decided to skip that this trip. We enjoyed the beaches in the park at night and i highly recommend it! All in all we enjoyed our trip but we probably won't be back to Fort Pickens campground. The sites are very close together and we had a very nosey and drunk neighbor who really wanted to chat. We camp to get away from people, just saying. We were also bothered by RV and truck lights shining directly into our tent both nights from people driving through the campground. Not the best but we enjoyed camping at the beach.

  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by brittany M., February 8, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by brittany M., February 8, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by brittany M., February 8, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by brittany M., February 8, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by brittany M., February 8, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by brittany M., February 8, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by brittany M., February 8, 2019
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by brittany M., February 8, 2019
Reviewed Oct. 18, 2018

White Sand Beauty

Have stayed at Ft. Pickens campground on several occasions. Always one of my favorites. The beauty of the white sand beach is hard to beat. Having the option of swimming in the bay side if the Gulf side is too rough is a plus. Bring bug spray!! If it is rainy season, your spot may be under water. Had our last trip postponed by a day and our reserved spot changed due to water. Camp store was closed this last trip.

SiteC14
Month of VisitSeptember
Reviewed Sep. 27, 2018

Best beach camping

We had a wonderful time tent camping. Great campsites and facilities with hot showers. Everything was kept very clean. Relaxing and friendly atmosphere.

  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Katherine J., September 27, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Katherine J., September 27, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Katherine J., September 27, 2018
Reviewed Sep. 11, 2018

Beautiful park, Tiny campsite

The park is absolutely gorgeous! I highly recommend checking out the beach at night. It's breath taking! We stayed for two nights in a tent. We brought our 2 dogs with us as well thinking there would be a bit more seclusion, unfortunately Fort Pickens is not as pet friendly as we thought. There are no dog beaches within the park, no dogs on the trail, no dogs at the fort or pier. A bummer but not a huge deal. There are dog beaches about 5 mins outside the park. We were supposed to be on a tent only loop but the camping area is so small that you might as well be right next to a r/v. We where also backed up right next to other tent sites. Luckily the sites were a little wet so they were empty. The space proved to be difficult when the R/Vers walked their dogs. Our sheppard didnt care for that. We also had head lights shining in our tent several times both nights. There are showers and potties on both sides of the camping area. FYI The side near the R/Vs is much nicer with actual shower heads. All in all, it's not terrible, but I would prefer more space and privacy. It's lacking a certain feel that tent campers like us are looking for.

Reviewed Jul. 31, 2018

lovely campsite

We’ve only been here once but had an awesome experience. The sites were very nice and the staff wonderful. Great little place to bring kids. Close access to the beach. We also loved that there were more primitive camping than RV and Campers. We can’t wait to go back.

  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Laura L., July 31, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Laura L., July 31, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Laura L., July 31, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Laura L., July 31, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Laura L., July 31, 2018
Reviewed Jul. 29, 2018

Quiet beach camping

Campsites are close together but the beaches are nice and quiet. The historic fort provides an interesting educational experience... however, there are ants EVERYwhere.

  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Jamie M., July 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Jamie M., July 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Jamie M., July 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Jamie M., July 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Jamie M., July 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Jamie M., July 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Jamie M., July 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Jamie M., July 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Jamie M., July 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Jamie M., July 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Jamie M., July 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Jamie M., July 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Jamie M., July 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Jamie M., July 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Jamie M., July 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Jamie M., July 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Jamie M., July 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Jamie M., July 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Jamie M., July 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Jamie M., July 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Jamie M., July 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Jamie M., July 29, 2018
Reviewed Jul. 7, 2018

Great location

Great spot to hang out for a few days. The campground is close to the beautiful beach and provides good access to the historical sites and trails. The campground was busy so make to reserve a spot in advance.

Month of VisitMarch
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  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Miranda M., July 7, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Miranda M., July 7, 2018
Reviewed Jul. 5, 2018

Outstanding beach and camping

This might be my favorite place to camp in all of florida. The campgrounds are clean , quiet and steps from the beach. Great hot showers that are cleaned daily. A visit to the fort is a must. We moved from campsite to campsite to extend our stay. No bugs and always a breeze.

Month of VisitFebruary
Reviewed Jun. 5, 2018

fun!!

it’s a blast every time we go with family and good friends. we go for the Fourth of July and it’s fun. we go to the Fort and the beach. We also go out to eat as well.

Reviewed May. 31, 2018

Camping with a Beach!

We loved Fort Pickens for many reasons...BEACH...BEACH...BEACH! Not only that but there is an amazing Fort to explore!

Picture your campsite nestled among live oaks draped with Spanish moss...a short hike and you are either at the beach or at the Fort!

A few of the campsites were not ideal...our tent site had some type of water facility next to it. The sites are close together with little privacy. That being said...the campground is all together beautiful and we enjoyed our camping experience.

Our campground was across the street from a lovely boardwalk that takes you right to a beautiful sugar white beach that goes on for miles and miles with no restaurants, condos, etc. Just nature at its best!

The Fort is so cool and the park offers tours and there is also a great gift shop. You can also explore the bay near the fort and beach comb along the shore.

We were surprised to find that the beginning (or end) of the Florida Trail is near the Fort. We rode our bikes several miles on the trail.

The bathroom facilities at the park were fine and we had a nice campfire.

This is a AWESOME campsite for all ages...and especially for kids...so much to explore and learn. If you have kids, encourage them to join the Jr. Ranger Program and they will get a cool pin made from wood (they will need to fill out a booklet that is very informative).

We have camped here twice and totally plan to camp here in the future!

Month of VisitMarch
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Karen  D., May 31, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Karen  D., May 31, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Karen  D., May 31, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Karen  D., May 31, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Karen  D., May 31, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Karen  D., May 31, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Karen  D., May 31, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Karen  D., May 31, 2018
  • Riding bikes down Florida Trail
    Play button icon
Reviewed May. 31, 2018

Great Facilities

Easy navigation around sites, some areas are mushy where water settles but it’s a barrier island so it’s expected. Best shower units I’ve ever used! There’s even a dishwashing station! So convenient! There’s a small visitors center of some sort by the dumpsters at the entrance/exit that sells ice during business hours. Good thing because civilization is about 6 or 7 miles away, so be prepared when you cross that bridge to get to the island and then traveling to the end will make you feel more isolated (in a great way) therefore please get everything you need in one trip! GREAT SAND ON THE BEACH! I can only explain it as “sugary”! No courseness to it at all, all beautiful and white.

  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Heidi R., May 31, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Heidi R., May 31, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Heidi R., May 31, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Heidi R., May 31, 2018
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Reviewed May. 28, 2018

beautiful

Beautiful location. easy access to beach. Showers could be cleaner. two out of five were out of order. sites are nice.

Reviewed May. 24, 2018

Sunny gulf coast

An amazing piece of America. The barrier island full of wildlife. Hiking trails through out the sites. Short eall to the beach or bay.The water is perfect blue green. The sand is soft. Large RV camping areas, tents as well. Not a lot of trees so bring shade. You need to make reservations several months in advance.

SiteD20
Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Joshua K., May 24, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Joshua K., May 24, 2018
Reviewed May. 22, 2018

Beach access without amenities

We have been camping here for six years and have always loved it. Some of the interior sites flood when it rains, so choose wisely as there is a good chance it will rain. This year they separated tent sites from RV sites and removed water and electric from the tent sites. There is still good access to water faucets, so not a huge deal. Our biggest annoyance this year was that they got reLly fussy about hanging hammocks from trees. We had purposefully picked a site with good trees so that was a bit frustrating. Also, the camp store has been closed down so you have to leave the park to get ice. Be sure you bring whatever you need with you. But they have clean bathrooms and the beach access is close. And since the beach there is really only campers it has never been very crowded.

SiteD9 and D10
Month of VisitMay
Reviewed May. 19, 2018

Check the Weather

Rain rain and more rain. 7 inches in 36 hours. Loop E was small short sites. Could not park at site. Bath house was nice.

  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Freida B., May 19, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Freida B., May 19, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Freida B., May 19, 2018
Reviewed Jan. 10, 2018

Ranger Review: Renogy E. Lumen Solar Powered Flashlight at Fort Pickens Campground (Gulf Islands National Seashore), Florida

Campground Review:

Fort Pickens Campground sits on a peninsula of sandy land that lies between the Gulf of Mexico and Pensacola Bay so you know this place is bound to be beautiful. The campground is part of Gulf Islands National Seashore and has gorgeous white sandy beaches. There are lots of things to keep you busy in this park besides sitting on the beach or playing in the clear blue water. There are plenty of hiking/mountain biking trails which are part of the Florida National Scenic Trail. The shallow waters in the bay are great for surf fishing and kayaking and there are many access points. The park has a nice museum that describes the history of the fort and impacts of hurricanes (especially Ivan which destroyed the area). Ranger-led tours occur during the year and are very fun and informative. We went on a full moon night hike where the ranger talk focused on astrology and how moon phases impact some animals. Many parts of the fort and old batteries are open and available for exploring. Climbing on top of some of these areas offers spectacular views of the bay and gulf.

The campground is separated into two sections that make up five loops containing 180 sites. Campsites have paved driveways and grassy/sandy patios with 50/30/20 amp electric and water (but no sewer). There are picnic tables and fire pits at each site. Bathroom/shower buildings are scattered throughout the loops and were cleaned daily by volunteers. These buildings are heated which was much appreciated during the cold weather we experienced when camped here. Reservations can be made online (and should be made early if you plan on coming during the busy spring and summer seasons). It is best to check the park’s website before your visit because sometimes they have to close the road to the campground due to sand and water on the roads. We prefer to stay in Loop A because there are way fewer sites in that section and you don’t get the feeling of being crowded like in Loops B – E. There is also more shade in Loop A which is very welcomed in the summer. The campground is about 10 miles from the nearest convenient store or restaurant so it is best to stock up on groceries before you come. There is a camp store that has a wide selection of food items, souvenirs, baits, and beach supplies.

Campsites are a short ¼ mile from the gorgeous beaches. Just before entering the park is a great seafood restaurant called Peg Leg Pete’s. Venturing into Pensacola you will find an amazing seafood market called Joe Patti’s, the Pensacola Bay Brewery, and the Naval Aviation Museum (which is free), the Pensacola Lighthouse, a minor league baseball team, and other interesting historic sites and attractions. If you are there at a time when the Navy’s Blue Angels are flying, you will see them directly overhead and it’s a great sight to see.

Product Review:

I tested the Renogy E. Lumen Solar Powered Flashlight out at Fort Pickens which can get pretty dark at night. The campground is far removed from any city lights as it is 10 miles out of town on a skinny peninsula of land and this item came in handy walking around the campground at night and in the early morning.

This is a super bright LED solar powered rechargeable flashlight that has a ton of features packed into this light device. There are five light settings on this flashlight – the 3-Watt LED headlight has a high beam, low beam, and strobe and if you hold down the on/off button it cycles over to a 2-Watt LED side white light which can be set on high or low. There is also a red strobe side light with two settings but both are strobes. It would be nice if there was a solid red light feature. The headlight is powerful providing light up to 200 meters away. While the flashlight can be charged by solar it also has a USB charging option. Here are some more of the features of this flashlight that is compact and also functions as a multi-tool:

  • 2000mAh lithium-ion battery with charge level indicators. I left the flashlight in the direct sun for a couple of hours and it had ample charge when I used it later that night. They advertise that it will hold seven hours of charge.
  • Super strong side magnet so you can mount it where you want and it will remain in place. I put it on the side of my car and it held fine.
  • Heavy duty aluminum construction and water resistant which makes it great for taking with you in your canoe or kayak.
  • Multiple emergency features such as an alloy glass-shattering hammer and seatbelt cutter to help you escape from a vehicle. The seatbelt cutter is well protected so you won’t accidentally cut yourself.
  • Compass for helping you navigate. The compass is pretty small and is just divided into N, E, S, and W and does not have degrees so it will help in general navigation but not specific direction.
  • USB input/output cable is a great feature that allows you to charge the flashlight or small electronic devices like your phone or tablet. I used the USB cable to charge my phone and the flashlight had good charging power.
  • 200 lumens for the high beam flashlight which provides a powerful light that illuminates up to 200 meters away. The side white light has 150 lumens and is great to put on a picnic table while setting up your campsite in the dark or for reading at night.
  • The lightweight, compact design (10.9 ounces and measures under 7 ½ inches long) is perfect for storing it in your car or stuffing it in your backpack but a little too long and heavy to keep in your jacket or pants pocket.

The light does come with an instruction manual but the print is very small and I had trouble reading it even with reading glasses on. This flashlight retails for around $25 and I think it is well worth the price. The fact that it is solar (and has a USB charging port) means no more having to buy batteries. I also like the USB port which will charge small electronic devices like phones and tablets. This would make a great gift for anyone who likes to camp or just needs a really good flashlight around their house or in their car.

Click here for my video review.

SiteA4
Month of VisitJanuary
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Nancy W., January 10, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Nancy W., January 10, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Nancy W., January 10, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Nancy W., January 10, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Nancy W., January 10, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Nancy W., January 10, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Nancy W., January 10, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Nancy W., January 10, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Nancy W., January 10, 2018
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  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Nancy W., January 10, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Nancy W., January 10, 2018
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Nancy W., January 10, 2018
Reviewed Dec. 19, 2017

Fort Pickens-Gulf Islands National Seashore Florida

I was a camp host there for 3 months and it is the most beautiful place. The barrier island between the Pensacola Sound and the Gulf of Mexico and it's incredible. I saw sea turtles daily, dolphins and so many other beautiful animals and the best part is that it's a protected island allowing all the animals to be free and safe. The Fort itself is really cool and The water is amazing and so is the campground. I highly recommend going it's absolutely amazing.

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Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Ricci J., December 19, 2017
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Ricci J., December 19, 2017
  • Review photo of Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore by Ricci J., December 19, 2017