Gulf Islands National Seashore

Loop A: The "Sweet Spot" of Fort Pickens

We really lucked out with Loop A. In the world of Fort Pickens camping, Loop A is often considered the "premier" loop because of its proximity to everything. Having that boardwalk right across the road is a game-changer. It puts you on some of the whitest "sugar quartz" sand in the world. Loop A serves as a gateway to the Florida National Scenic Trail. While the whole trail is 1,500 miles long, the section through the park is arguably the most beautiful, weaving between the Gulf of Mexico and Pensacola Bay.

The Junior Ranger Adventure

Exploring the fort itself is like walking through a giant, stone puzzle. Fort Pickens was built in 1834 to protect Pensacola Bay, it’s one of the few forts in the South that stayed in Union hands throughout the Civil War. Beyond the main fort, we explored the Batteries (Battery Worth and Battery Cooper). These were 20th-century additions that feel very different from the brick-and-mortar 1800s fort. The kids were able to complete the junior ranger booklets and earn the badges! This fort has a lot of facts, history, and interesting stories!

Fishing at the Pier

The Fort Pickens Fishing Pier is one of the few places in Florida where you can fish without a license, as the park holds a master license for the pier itself. Even when it's windy, the Pensacola Pass (where the pier is located) is a highway for fish. In 2026, the area is seeing a massive return of Spanish Mackerel and Pompano.