Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Big Lagoon State Park is situated in the northwestern region of Florida, just outside of Pensacola, near the Gulf of Mexico. Spanning over 700 acres, this park provides a mix of saltwater and freshwater environments, including sandy beaches, pine flatwoods, and salt marshes. The park is an ideal spot for wildlife viewing, particularly birdwatching, as it's adjacent to the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. Established in 1978, Big Lagoon State Park serves as a popular destination for outdoor recreation such as hiking, kayaking, and camping. The park's waterways and trails offer visitors diverse opportunities to experience the coastal wilderness. Notably, the park provides access to the Intracoastal Waterway and serves as the launch site for the northern terminus of the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail, inviting paddlers from around the state and beyond. In addition to its natural beauty, the park’s cultural heritage includes links to the historical Pensacola area.
