A Memorable Weekend at Big Lagoon State Park - Amateur Camper Camping Adventures for the Family

Have a memorable weekend at Big Lagoon State Park, Pensacola, Florida, and explore the 704 acres of natural beauty that make up the park. This beautiful park is perfect for those looking for a quiet campground near Perdido Key and the white sandy beaches along the Gulf of Mexico.

Campsites

The campsites at Big Lagoon were spacious for our little camper but might be a tight squeeze for others. We had plenty of room at site #69 and a quiet neighbor that we didn’t notice until the day we left.

All campsites come with a picnic table, fire ring, water and electric. Sewer hookups did not seem to be available, but a dump station is located at the entrance/exit of the campground. Bathhouses are centrally located throughout the campground.

As noted on the Big Lagoon website, the campground will be closed from February 1st to August 1st, 2025 for renovations. Please keep that in mind when making reservations.

Saltwater Paddling Trail

Big Lagoon State Park is the beginning or end of the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Trail. This 1,515-mile paddling trail goes around the whole state of Florida with 26 designated segments for sea kayakers.

Beaches

Be sure to check out the fabulous beaches of Perdido Key. The Gulf Island National Seashore was a relaxing way to spend the day, but it quickly filled up other beachgoers. Also, check out Perdido Key State Park. Perdido Key State Park is free for those camping at Big Lagoon State Park. There is an admittance fee for the Gulf Island National Seashore if you do not have a national park pass.

Hiking

Big Lagoon has two main camping trails, the Sand Pine Trail and the Estuary Trail. We took the boardwalk to the Estuary Trail to the observation tower. It was a great hike to stretch our legs after being in the truck for hours on our travel day.

The next day we checked out Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park for an evening hike. We found the endangered and fascinating pitcher plant.

Pitcher Plant of Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park

Pitch Plant of Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park

We also found a couple of Geocaches to add to our log. If you want to learn more information on Geocaching check out my blog post Geocaching With Kids.

Stargazing

During certain weekends Big Lagoon State Park hosts a night of stargazing in partnership with the Escambia Amateur Astronomer’s Association. I think we missed the stargazing night by a weekend, but we did view an awesome moon rising from the observation tower.

Moonrise View at the Tower in Big Lagoon State Park

A beautiful sight to see, but hopefully if you try it boats with very bright lights won’t be near.

More Information

For more information or to make a camping reservation visit Big Lagoon State Park. This was truly a beautiful park to explore.

I also want to give a big shout-out to the Florida Road Rangers who helped us when our trailer’s tire blew. Our Road Ranger quickly helped us and got us safely back on the road to continue our trip home. If you ever need assistance call *FHP (347).

Here’s to a memorable weekend at Big Lagoon State Park. Happy Camping!