Fort Pickens Campground is a popular destination for RV camping.
The campground has over 200 campsites, many of which are suitable for RVs. The campsites have water and electric hookups, and there is a dump station available for RVs.
The campground is surrounded by sand dunes and is a short walk from the Gulf of Mexico.
The beaches at Fort Pickens are known for their beautiful, white sandy shores and crystal-clear water.
It is a great place to enjoy swimming, fishing, and exploring the historic fort.
The campground also has amenities such as restrooms and showers, making it a convenient and comfortable place to stay.
RV camping at Fort Pickens Campground is a popular choice for visitors who want to enjoy the outdoors and explore the surrounding area.
The campground is located within the Fort Pickens National Park and is a short drive from other nearby attractions, such as the Gulf Islands National Seashore and the Pensacola Beach.
If you’ve never experienced RV camping on a coastline or a barrier island, it’s all you can imagine. One thing to keep in mind is the constant threat of deteriorating weather conditions that can happen at any time of year.
Since Fort Pickens campground is in such a vulnerable location, it’s a good idea to at least be aware and an even better idea to have a Plan B in place should Fort Pickens Campground trigger a mandatory evacuation.
Fort Pickens
Fort Pickens is a historic military fort located on the western tip of Santa Rosa Island in the Gulf Islands National Seashore, near Pensacola, Florida.
The fort was built in the early 1800s to defend the Pensacola Harbor and the city of Pensacola from foreign invasion.
It played a significant role in the Civil War and was used as a prison for Confederate soldiers.
Fort Pickens has a variety of different accommodations available for visitors, including campsites and cabins. The cabins at Fort Pickens are located within the Fort Pickens Campground and are a popular choice for visitors who want a more comfortable and convenient camping experience.
History of Fort Pickens
This video provides a comprehensive history of Fort Pickens and its place in protecting Pensacola Bay through multiple wars.
Cabins at Fort Pickens
The cabins at Fort Pickens are basic, rustic structures that are designed to provide a comfortable and convenient place to sleep and store your gear.
Each cabin has a screened porch, a table and chairs, and two sets of bunk beds.
The cabins do not have electricity, but they do have a ceiling fan and a light. Guests need to bring their own bedding, towels, and other supplies.
The cabins at Fort Pickens are a great choice for visitors who want a more comfortable camping experience but still want to be close to nature and enjoy the outdoors.
They are a short walk from the Gulf of Mexico and the campground amenities, including the restrooms and showers.
Campground Fees
The cost of camping at Fort Pickens Campground varies depending on the type of campsite and the time of year you are visiting.
As of 2021, the campsite fees for Fort Pickens Campground were as follows:
- Tent campsites: $26 per night
- Group campsites: $50 per night
- Cabin: $60 per night
- RV campsites with electric and water hookups: $40 per night
These fees may be subject to change, so it is a good idea to check the official website or contact the campground directly for the most up-to-date information on prices and availability.
Fort Pickens is part of Gulf Islands National Seashore and has a separate entrance fee.
In addition to the campsite fees, there is a $30 entrance fee per vehicle for entry into the Fort Pickens National Park.
This fee covers access to the park for seven days and includes access to the campground and other amenities. There are also discounts available for senior citizens and military personnel.
The cost of entering Fort Pickens National Park depends on the type of pass you have.
As of 2021, the fees for entering Fort Pickens National Park were as follows:
- Private vehicle: $30 per vehicle for a seven-day pass
- Individual: $15 per person for a seven-day pass
- Motorcycle: $25 per motorcycle for a seven-day pass
There are also annual passes available that allow unlimited access to national park facilities like Fort Pickens and federal recreational lands for one year.
It is important to note that these fees may be subject to change, so it is a good idea to check the official website or contact the park directly for the most up-to-date information on prices and availability.
There are also discounts available for senior citizens, military personnel, and individuals with disabilities. Children under 16 years of age are admitted free of charge.
Pet policy
Pets are allowed at Fort Pickens Campground, but they must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times. Pets are not allowed on the beaches or in the water.
In addition to the leash requirement, there are a few other rules that visitors with pets should be aware of:
- Pets must be well-behaved and not disturb other campers.
- Pets must be cleaned up after and waste must be disposed of properly.
- Pets are not allowed in park buildings or on the fort grounds.
It is important to note that the pet policy at Fort Pickens Campground may be subject to change, so it is a good idea to check the official website or contact the campground directly for the most up-to-date information.
Dogs are only allowed on the beaches at Fort Pickens in two designated areas.
Dogs can walk and play at the beach access with parking lots at mile markers 21.5(between Pensacola Beach and Fort Pickens) and 28.5(east of Fort Pickens) only.
Dog must be on leash at all times and stay in the designated areas defined by the signposts.
Things to do when camping at Fort Pickens
- Exploring the historic Fort Pickens: Fort Pickens is a military fort that was built in the early 1800s to defend the Pensacola Harbor and the city of Pensacola from foreign invasion. It played a significant role in the Civil War and was used as a prison for Confederate soldiers. Visitors can explore the fort and learn about its history.
- Swimming and fishing: The campground is a short walk from the Gulf of Mexico, which makes it a great place to enjoy swimming and fishing. There are several beaches located nearby, including Pensacola Beach and Navarre Beach.
- Visiting the Gulf Islands National Seashore: The Gulf Islands National Seashore is a protected area that stretches along the Gulf of Mexico from Mississippi to Florida. It is a great place to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking.
- Visiting the Pensacola Beach: The Pensacola Beach is a popular destination located a short drive from the campground. It is a great place to enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
- Visiting the Naval Air Station Pensacola: The Naval Air Station Pensacola is a military base located nearby. It is home to the Blue Angels, a flight demonstration team that performs at airshows around the country. Visitors can watch the Blue Angels practice or tour the base.
Living near Fort Pickens
Living near Fort Pickens in Florida can be a great experience, as the area offers a mix of natural beauty, history, and recreational opportunities.
Downtown Pensacola is located on the western coast of Florida and is known for its historic architecture, and lively arts scene.
The area is home to a number of museums and cultural attractions, including the Pensacola Museum of Art, the T.T. Wentworth, Jr. Florida State Museum, and the Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum.
There are also many dining and shopping options in downtown Pensacola, including a variety of local restaurants, cafes, and boutiques.
The area is also home to a number of events and festivals throughout the year, including the Pensacola Seafood Festival and the Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival.
Real estate market near Fort Pickens
The Pensacola Beach, Gulf Breeze and downtown Pensacola area is a popular tourist destination and has a growing population, which can drive demand for housing.
Homes in the area near the park can range in price from under $100,000 to over $1 million, depending on the location and features of the property.
The market for rental properties, including vacation rentals, is also active in the area.
It’s worth noting that the real estate market can be subject to fluctuations and can vary significantly from one location to another.
It’s always a good idea to work with a local real estate professional(like us!) to get a better understanding of the market in a specific area.
They can provide more information on current market conditions, as well as help you navigate the process of buying or renting a property.
Directions to Fort Pickens Campground
Fort Pickens Campground is located within the Fort Pickens National Park on the western tip of Santa Rosa Island in the Gulf Islands National Seashore, near Pensacola, Florida.
Use the directions feature on the Google Map above to map your directions.
What to do when Fort Pickens closes
Because Fort Pickens sits between Pensacola Bay and the Gulf Of Mexico, the campground, fort and cabins area has periodic mandatory evacuations. Read more here on what to do if your visit has a chance of being impacted by Fort Pickens closing.
