BIG LAGOON STATE RECREATION
AREA
Big Lagoon State Recreation Area derives its name from a bordering body
of water called Big Lagoon. This coastal park which consists of 698 upland
acres, was opened in 1978 and beckons visitors with all the recreational
opportunities expected at a Florida state park.
NATURAL & CULTURAL RESOURCES
A variety of plant communities occur in the area. Look for sandpine scrub
on the sandy relic dunes. Vegetation
- dwarfed, twisted and gnarled - provides evidence of the harsh conditions
on the dunes which
protect the mainland from storm winds. Slash pines growing in " swales"
(elongated troughs parallel to the dune ridges) often grow in wet or even
water-logged soil and become impenetrable thickets. The sandy beaches and
salt marshes bordering Big Lagoon add variety to the scenery.
Valued as wetlands, the salt marshes attract
and provide important habitat for numerous birds and animals. Gray-foxes,
raccoons, skunks and opossums are often observed in the park. Great blue
herons and other waterfowl can be seen near Big Lagoon while upland portions
of the park provide refuge for cardinals, towhees, brown thrashers and nuthatches.
More than 75 campsites are located on a
pine ridge in the center of the 698- acre park. Modern facilities and a
dump station are on the premises.
Five picnic
areas with shelters are found along the shore of Big Lagoon and the Intracoastal
Waterway. The Governor's Pavilion, which accommodates larger groups, can
be reserved for a nominal fee.
A 500-seat
amphitheater is a wonderful alternative for group meetings. A separate
meeting room and equipped kitchen are available. Reservations are a must;
and a nominal fee is charged for use of the facilities.
A variety of water sports attract
visitors to the park. Swimming and beach activities are enjoyed on the
shore of Big Lagoon. When swimming, stay alert; keep your safety and that
of others in mind by staying clear of boat traffic.
A boat ramp with dock provides
easy access to the lagoon and the Intracoastal Waterway.
Fishing
brings in redfish, bluefish, flounder and sea trout seasonally. Crabbing
and castnetting for mullet in the lagoon are also popular.
The beaches, shallow bays,
boardwalks, nature trails and open woodlands offer ample opportunity for
nature study.
An observation tower at the
East Beach area provides a panoramic view of Big Lagoon, the park and
Gulf Islands National Seashore across the Intracoastal Waterway.
Numerous interpretive exhibits
are located throughout the park. Guided walks, campfire programs and recreational
skills programs are offered seasonally and upon special request for groups.
For information, contact:
Big Lagoon State Recreation Area
12301 Gulf Beach Highway
Pensacola, Florida 32507
(850) 492-1595 |
