Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
- Reservations can be made at the Florida State Parks website or by phone.
- Big Lagoon is a popular spot, so booking in advance is recommended. This can be done up to 11 months in advance. Many experienced Florida campers book their spots on the first day bookings open up.
- If you can’t secure your preferred dates, keep checking. Spots sometimes open up as others’ plans change.
When to Go
Summer is prime for camping in this part of Florida, with many visitors flocking here to cool off in the park’s waterways. If planning a summer visit, try to make reservations as far in advance as possible. Otherwise, opting for spring or fall promises more availability, fewer crowds, and more comfortable hiking conditions—this is also the best time for viewing migrating birds.
Know Before You Go
- Kayak, canoe, and stand-up paddleboard rentals are available through Sunshine State Concessions.
- You’ll likely find everything you need at Publix, Walmart, or Target, all of which are within five miles of Big Lagoon.
- No lifeguards are on duty in the park.
- All pets must be on a six-foot leash and continuously attended to. Pets are not allowed on the beach, wetlands, boardwalks, playground, or in any buildings.
- Some areas are wheelchair accessible, and beach wheelchairs are available free of charge from the ranger station.
Big Lagoon State Park
Diverse ecosystems and ample adventure make this park a top Gulf Coast getaway.
__truncato_root__>
On the western edge of the Florida Panhandle, just 10 miles west of Pensacola, the saltwater marshes and pine flatwoods of Big Lagoon State Park are a gateway to both the 1,515-mile Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail and the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. A diversity of birds hang out here, including more than 20 species of wood-warbler and a variety of ducks, sandpipers, and black-bellied plovers. Five miles of hiking trails wind their way through Big Lagoon, while swimming and kayaking are available at designated areas along the Intracoastal Waterway. The park has 75 campsites for tents and RVs up to 40 feet.
On the western edge of the Florida Panhandle, just 10 miles west of Pensacola, the saltwater marshes and pine flatwoods of Big Lagoon State Park are a gateway to both the 1,515-mile Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail and the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. A diversity of birds hang out here, including more than 20 species of wood-warbler and a variety of ducks, sandpipers, and black-bellied plovers. Five miles of hiking trails wind their way through Big Lagoon, while swimming and kayaking are available at designated areas along the Intracoastal Waterway. The park has 75 campsites for tents and RVs up to 40 feet.
Activities in the park
1 campground in Big Lagoon State Park
Near the metaphorical gateway between Florida and Alabama (sorry to disappoint, there is no literal gate), how cool would it be to say that you spent a night at the geographically-first campsite in Florida?! Not that cool you say… Well, we beg to differ! Here on the beachy terrain, you’ll be able to find campsites of sand and seashell to nestle-in Read more...
Why can't I see these campgrounds when I search with dates?
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
When to Go
Summer is prime for camping in this part of Florida, with many visitors flocking here to cool off in the park’s waterways. If planning a summer visit, try to make reservations as far in advance as possible. Otherwise, opting for spring or fall promises more availability, fewer crowds, and more comfortable hiking conditions—this is also the best time for viewing migrating birds.
Know Before You Go
Public campgrounds (book externally) —