Big Lagoon State Park reopens three amenities following damage from Hurricane Sally

Perdido Key's Big Lagoon State Park, one of Florida's 175 state parks, has been fully reopened by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection after damage to its roads, pavilions, boardwalks and observation tower was caused by Hurricane Sally in 2020. Both beaches, the kayak launch and more were inaccessible due to the damage to the boardwalks.

In the three years since the natural disaster rocked the 705-acre park, its staff has hauled 207 tons of debris out and made repairs to its infrastructure, three buildings and its observation tower in order to restore it to its former glory. They also hope to add an additional playground to the park in the near future, according to a representative with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

What should residents and visitors of the Gulf Coast know about the state park's reopening?

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What amenities have been reopened?

The state park has reopened the following three amenities after the repair efforts.

Governor's Pavilion

Governor's Pavilion provides visitors a panoramic view of the park's surroundings and can be used casually or for holding events like picnics. Staff touts the new-look pavilion as providing visitors a "breathtaking," and "picturesque," view.

The park has 15 total family-style pavilions that are estimated to fit between 10 and 150 people. Each pavilion has grills, trash cans and a restroom nearby.

Amphitheater

Big Lagoon State Park's amphitheater has been revitalized by staff and is ready to continue hosting performances, concerts and educational presentations that bring the community together.

The amphitheater can be rented for $150 plus tax per day, but that cost does not omit the park's admissions fee. It is fit with stadium-style seating that can accommodate about 250 people.

Observation Tower

The last of the reopened amenities, the park's observation tower, will take visitors to new heights and allow them to witness the inner workings of the park's ecosystem. Staff also recommends it as a good spot for photography or moments of quiet contemplation.

What are Big Lagoon State Park's hours?

The park is open from 8 a.m. central time to sunset every day. Campers arriving after the park closes are asked to contact the park at 850-492-1595 in order to receive instructions and the gate's combination.

Where is Big Lagoon State Park?

Big Lagoon State Park is at 12301 Gulf Beach Highway, about 10 miles southwest of Pensacola. Parking is available at the Amphitheater and the West Beach area.

How much does admission for Big Lagoon State Park cost?

Admission into the park costs $6 for vehicles with two to eight people, $4 for vehicles with only one occupant and $2 for every bicyclist, pedestrian or number of passengers above eight. Passengers of individuals who hold an Annual Individual Entrance Pass, a type of pass which allows for unlimited entrance to Florida state parks, are only required to pay $2 each for admission.

For one person with a boat, admission costs $10 compared to $12 total for a group of two to eight people in one boat. Camping costs $20 per night plus tax, a $6.70 reservation fee and a nightly $7 utility fee for RVs, cabins and more.

Campers must pay $1 a night for every person younger than 18 years old and $5 a night for adults.

Who repaired Big Lagoon State Park?

Big Lagoon State Park was repaired through a collaborative effort between the Florida State Parks staff, volunteers and construction workers.

When did Big Lagoon State Park reopen?

Big Lagoon State Park reopened following its announcement on July 7.

What else is there to do at Big Lagoon State Park?

The state park offers experiences like star gazing, paddling, wildlife viewing and even weddings that can cost money outside of its admission fees. Additional amenities at the park include its: beach, playgrounds, campgrounds and shower stations. Pets are allowed in designated areas, but are prohibited in the amphitheater.

To make a reservation at the park you can visit them at the Florida State Parks reservation website or call them at 800-326-3521.

What is the history of Big Lagoon State Park?

Aerial photography from the 1950s shows that prior to being acquired by Florida Park Service in 1978, Big Lagoon State Park was a basin swamp or marsh.

The park has seen two hurricanes, Ivan and Sally, in its history and multiple near-misses in 2005 by tropical storms. These natural events have caused saltwater inundation in the basin swamps. This led to an extreme change in the habitat, making it difficult for trees to survive with the increased levels of saltwater in the water table.

Indigenous groups used to use the area to hunt shellfish that were abundant thanks to the fertile waters of the maritime habitat.

Can I swim at Big Lagoon State Park?

You can swim, kayak, fish and more while visiting Big Lagoon State Park. Lifeguards are not present at the site's designated for swimming areas, so caution is advised.

This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Big Lagoon State Park reopens three years after Hurricane Sally damage