Visitors can swim in the lake, relax near the water, enjoy a picnic, or explore the Sweetwater Trail. The recreation area also includes a campground with electric campsites, restrooms, hot showers, a swimming dock, and a pier.

Swimming at Krul Lake

Krul Lake is one of the designated swimming areas within Blackwater River State Forest. The spring-supplied lake offers a refreshing alternative to the beaches and rivers of Northwest Florida. A swimming dock provides access to the water, and picnic areas make it easy to spend several hours or an entire day at the recreation area.

Swimming conditions and recreation-area access can be affected by weather, maintenance, or other temporary conditions. Visitors should check the Florida Forest Service recreation page before making a long drive.

Sweetwater Hiking Trail

The 1.3-mile Sweetwater Trail connects Krul Lake Recreation Area with Bear Lake Recreation Area. From the Krul Lake parking area, the first half-mile follows an accessible boardwalk through the forest and along Sweetwater Creek.

Highlights along this section include a suspension bridge over Sweetwater Creek and a historic gristmill beside the boardwalk. Beyond the developed boardwalk, the trail continues through the forest toward Bear Lake.

Camping at Krul Lake

Krul Campground offers campsites with electricity near the lake. Campground facilities include restrooms and hot showers. Reservations are recommended, especially during weekends and warmer months.

Camping reservations can be made through ReserveAmerica or by calling 877-879-3859. Campsite prices and availability can change, so check the reservation system for current information.

Quick Facts About Krul Lake Recreation Area

• 6.5-acre lake supplied by natural springs
• Designated swimming area
• Swimming dock and pier
• Picnic areas
• Electric campsites
• Restrooms and hot showers
• Access to the 1.3-mile Sweetwater Trail
• Accessible boardwalk
• Suspension bridge over Sweetwater Creek
• Historic gristmill
• Pets are not permitted within the recreation area

Day-Use Hours

• April 1 through September 15: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• September 16 through March 31: 7 a.m. to sunset

Day-use fees may apply. Current day-use passes, camping fees, reservations, and other visitor information are available through the Florida State Forests passes and reservations page.

Before you go: Hours, fees, swimming access, trail conditions, and campground availability may change. Check with the Florida Forest Service for current conditions.

Navy Point is a waterfront park and public boat launch along Bayou Grande in Pensacola. Visitors come here to launch boats, kayaks, and paddleboards or enjoy miles of scenic walking and biking paths along the shoreline.

The Navy Point Boat Ramp and Navy Point Park sit across Sunset Avenue from one another, but they serve different purposes. The boat ramp is intended for vehicles towing trailers, while Navy Point Park offers parking and shoreline access for visitors arriving without a trailer.

Whether you are heading out by boat, launching a kayak for a paddle around Bayou Grande, or enjoying the waterfront path, it is important to park in the correct area.

Navy Point Boat Ramp

The Navy Point Boat Ramp provides convenient access to Bayou Grande for boaters. From the ramp, boaters can travel through the bayou and continue toward Pensacola Bay and the surrounding waterways.

Parking at the boat ramp is reserved for vehicles with trailers. Drivers arriving without a trailer should park across Sunset Avenue at Navy Point Park.

The boat ramp area is best suited for:

• Motorboats
• Fishing boats
• Personal watercraft being transported on a trailer
• Other trailered watercraft

Portable toilets are available near the boat ramp, but there are no permanent restroom facilities.

Because of the vehicle and trailer traffic around the ramp, kayakers and paddleboarders will generally find Navy Point Park to be the better place to launch.

Kayak and Paddleboard Launch

Navy Point Park offers a convenient place to launch a kayak or paddleboard into Bayou Grande. Visitors can park at the park, carry their equipment to the shoreline, and enter the water away from the main boat ramp.

The protected waters of Bayou Grande make Navy Point a useful starting point for exploring the shoreline. Paddlers can stay close to the park for a relaxed outing or venture farther into the bayou depending on weather, wind, boat traffic, and experience.

The shoreline launch is informal rather than a developed kayak ramp, so conditions may vary with the tide and water level. Be prepared to carry your kayak or paddleboard from the parking area to the water.

Paddling Around Bayou Grande

Launching from Navy Point Park gives paddlers direct access to Bayou Grande. The bayou offers a mix of residential shoreline, open water, coastal vegetation, and views of the surrounding Pensacola waterfront.

A paddle here can be as short or as long as you choose. You can remain near Navy Point, follow the shoreline, or use the park as a starting point for a longer trip.

As with any coastal paddle, conditions can change quickly. Wind can make the return trip more difficult, particularly for paddleboarders. Check the forecast before launching and pay attention to the direction of the wind before traveling too far from the park.

Bayou Grande is also used by motorboats, so paddlers should remain visible and watch for wakes and approaching vessels.

Paddling to White Island

Navy Point is also a popular access point for paddlers interested in visiting White Island. The small island sits within the Bayou Grande area and can be reached by kayak or paddleboard from the park.

White Island can make a rewarding destination for a longer outing, but paddlers should plan accordingly. The route involves crossing areas used by motorboats, and wind can significantly affect the difficulty of the trip.

Before paddling toward White Island:

• Check the wind and marine forecast.
• Wear a properly fitted personal flotation device.
• Carry water and sun protection.
• Make sure your kayak or paddleboard is visible to boaters.
• Keep an eye on changing conditions.
• Leave the island and shoreline as you found them.

Distance can feel very different on the return trip if the wind increases, so avoid judging the outing only by how easy the first part of the paddle feels.

Walking and Biking at Navy Point Park

You do not need to get on the water to enjoy Navy Point. The park connects visitors with miles of paved walking and biking paths that follow the Bayou Grande waterfront.

The path is popular for:

• Walking
• Running
• Recreational biking
• Exercising
• Watching the water
• Enjoying sunrise or sunset
• Taking a relaxed family outing

The route follows the curve of the waterfront and provides frequent views across the bayou. Visitors can take a short walk near the park or continue along the larger Navy Point trail system.

Because portions of the trail run through residential areas, visitors should remain aware of driveways, road crossings, cyclists, and other trail users.

Parking at Navy Point

Choosing the correct parking area is especially important at Navy Point.

Vehicles with trailers

Boaters towing a trailer should use the parking area at the Navy Point Boat Ramp.

Vehicles without trailers

Visitors arriving without a trailer should park across Sunset Avenue at Navy Point Park. This includes most people who are:

• Launching a kayak
• Launching a paddleboard
• Walking or running
• Riding a bicycle
• Visiting the waterfront park

The boat ramp parking area should not be used as general park parking.

Use caution when crossing Sunset Avenue between the park and boat ramp areas.

Restrooms and Facilities

There are no permanent public restroom buildings at Navy Point Park or the Navy Point Boat Ramp. Portable toilets are typically available at both locations.

Visitors should bring drinking water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any supplies they may need during their visit.

Know Before You Go

Navy Point is an active waterfront area shared by boaters, paddlers, cyclists, walkers, residents, and other visitors.

Keep these tips in mind:

• Park at Navy Point Park unless you are towing a boat trailer.
• Launch kayaks and paddleboards from the park side rather than the main boat ramp.
• Watch for boats and wakes while paddling.
• Check wind and weather conditions before heading toward White Island.
• Wear a life jacket while kayaking or paddleboarding.
• Bring water and sun protection.
• Do not block trailer parking or boat-ramp access.
• Carry out all trash and help protect the shoreline.

Plan Your Visit to Navy Point

Navy Point offers several ways to experience Bayou Grande. Boaters can use the public ramp, paddlers can launch from the park and explore the bayou, and visitors can enjoy miles of waterfront walking and biking paths.

It is a practical launch point, but it is also much more than a boat ramp. Navy Point is a place to explore the water, exercise along the shoreline, watch the sunset, or begin a paddling trip toward White Island.

Whether you’re exploring the brick fort, spending the afternoon fishing along Pensacola Bay, relaxing on the Gulf beaches, or camping under the stars, Fort Pickens offers something for visitors of every age.

Unlike the busier areas of Pensacola Beach, Fort Pickens offers a quieter atmosphere, making it a favorite destination for families, photographers, history lovers, and anyone seeking a different side of the Gulf Coast.

Explore Historic Fort Pickens

Completed in 1834, Fort Pickens is one of the best-preserved coastal forts in the United States. The massive brick structure was built to help defend Pensacola Bay and remained under Union control throughout the Civil War.

Today, visitors can walk through the fort’s tunnels, rooms, and defensive walls while learning about its military history through interpretive exhibits. Rangers frequently offer programs that provide additional insight into the fort’s role in American history.

Give yourself plenty of time to explore. The fort is much larger than it first appears, and there are interesting details around nearly every corner.

Relax on the Beaches

Fort Pickens offers access to beautiful stretches of Gulf shoreline, as well as quieter beaches along Pensacola Bay.

The Gulf beaches feature the sugar-white sand and emerald water Northwest Florida is known for, while the bayside often has calmer water that may be better suited for families with young children.

Because the area is part of Gulf Islands National Seashore, much of the shoreline remains undeveloped, giving visitors a more natural beach experience than many nearby locations.

Several parking areas along Fort Pickens Road provide convenient access to the Gulf. If you’re looking for a covered picnic area and nearby restrooms, Langdon Beach offers picnic tables, a pavilion, and restroom facilities.

On the bay side, Battery Worth provides another excellent place to spend the day. Visitors will find beach access, picnic tables, restrooms, and access to a section of the Florida National Scenic Trail. It’s a peaceful spot to enjoy the water, have a picnic, or begin a short hike through the park’s coastal landscape.

Hiking and Nature Trails

Several easy trails wind through the dunes and maritime forest around Fort Pickens, making this an enjoyable place for a leisurely walk or bike ride.

One popular section connects Battery Worth with Fort Pickens and is part of the Florida National Scenic Trail. At just under a mile, it’s an easy hike or place to ride for most families.

Along the trail, you’ll pass through coastal habitats filled with sand live oak, slash pine, myrtle oak, saw palmetto, rosemary, and seasonal wildflowers. A wooden bridge crosses small wetlands where turtles, birds, and other wildlife are often spotted.

Bring water, comfortable shoes, and your camera. The scenery changes throughout the seasons, making each visit a little different.

Wildlife Watching

Fort Pickens is one of the best places in the Pensacola area to observe native wildlife.

Depending on the season, you may see:

• Ghost crabs
• Great blue herons
• Ospreys
• Bald Eagles
• Brown pelicans
• Shorebirds
• Gopher tortoises
• Dolphins offshore
• Sea turtles

Early morning and late afternoon typically provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities.

Fishing

Whether you prefer surf fishing along the Gulf or casting into Pensacola Bay, Fort Pickens offers excellent fishing opportunities throughout the year.

Anglers commonly catch species such as pompano, redfish, flounder, whiting, and Spanish mackerel, depending on the season.

Near the historic fort, a fishing pier provides another popular place to cast a line. Visitors fishing from the pier do not need to purchase their own Florida saltwater fishing license. The pier is covered under a valid saltwater pier fishing license obtained by the park, which exempts individual anglers from needing a separate license while fishing from the pier.

If you plan to fish anywhere other than the pier, be sure to review current Florida fishing regulations and license requirements before your visit.

Battery Worth

Battery Worth is one of our favorite spots within Fort Pickens.

Located along Pensacola Bay, it offers picnic tables, charcoal grills, restrooms, beach access, and beautiful views across the water. It’s an excellent place to spend a relaxing afternoon away from the larger beach crowds.

Families often enjoy letting children explore the shoreline while watching for ghost crabs, small fish, and other marine life in the shallow water.

The observation area also provides excellent views of Pensacola Bay and offers another opportunity to learn about the area’s military history.

On select Friday evenings, members of the Escambia Amateur Astronomers Association occasionally host public stargazing events at Battery Worth when weather permits.

Camping at Fort Pickens

The Fort Pickens Campground is one of the most popular campgrounds along the Gulf Coast.

The campground offers sites for tents and RVs with easy access to beaches, fishing, hiking trails, and the historic fort. Because of its popularity, reservations are recommended, especially during spring, summer, and holiday weekends.

Camping here offers visitors spectacular sunsets, quiet evenings, and easy access to many of the park’s attractions.

Photography

Fort Pickens offers outstanding photography opportunities throughout the year.

Some of our favorite subjects include:

• Historic brick architecture
• Coastal dunes
• Gulf sunsets
• Pensacola Bay sunrises
• Wildlife
• Native wildflowers
• Old batteries
• Scenic beaches

Golden hour around sunrise and sunset provides some of the best lighting throughout the park.

Know Before You Go

Before visiting Fort Pickens, keep these tips in mind:

• An entrance fee is required to enter Gulf Islands National Seashore.
• Bring plenty of water, especially during the summer.
• Sunscreen and insect repellent are recommended.
• Pets are welcome in many areas but must remain on a leash.
• Stay on marked trails to help protect sensitive dune habitats.
• Check weather conditions before your visit.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re interested in history, spending a relaxing day at the beach, hiking through coastal landscapes, camping, fishing, or photographing Northwest Florida’s natural beauty, Fort Pickens offers one of the most rewarding outdoor experiences in the Pensacola area.

It’s a destination we’ve returned to many times over the years, and every visit offers something a little different, from watching wildlife along the trails to enjoying a quiet picnic beside Pensacola Bay.

A short drive inland opens up a different side of the Florida Panhandle. You’ll find peaceful rivers, crystal-clear springs, and family-friendly swimming areas surrounded by pine forests instead of condos. Whether you’re looking for a quiet afternoon with the family or simply want to explore somewhere new, these are five of our favorite places to cool off near Pensacola.

#1 Krul Lake State Recreation

Located in Blackwater River State Forest near Munson, Krul Lake Recreation Area is a favorite summer destination for families. The park centers around a 6.5-acre artificial lake with calm, clear water that’s perfect for swimming.

A sandy beach, floating swim platforms, and docks provide plenty of room to spread out, while picnic tables, pavilions, and restrooms make it easy to spend the day. The surrounding pine forest offers a peaceful setting that feels miles away from the busy beaches along the coast.

If you’re looking for an easy day trip with younger children, Krul Lake is one of the best options in the area.

#2 Blackwater River State Park

Blackwater River State Park has long been one of our favorite places to spend a summer afternoon. The tea-colored water, bright white sandbars, and towering longleaf pines create one of the most beautiful river landscapes in Florida.

The day-use area includes picnic tables, grills, restrooms, and easy access to the river. Just across the road from the parking area is the entrance to the Chain of Lakes Nature Trail. A short walk leads to a wide sandy beach where visitors can swim, relax, or enjoy the gentle current.

Many people also bring inner tubes and float downstream before walking back up the sandy shoreline to do it again. It’s a simple way to spend a relaxing day on the river.

#3 Fillingim Landing

Fillingim Landing is a public recreation area on the Perdido River that offers a quieter alternative to many of the region’s better-known swimming spots.

The facility includes a kayak launch, picnic area, hiking trails, restrooms, and river access. A sandy beach sits across the river and is often used for swimming when water conditions are suitable. Because river levels can change throughout the year, always use caution and be aware of the current before crossing.

Whether you’re launching a kayak, floating the river, or simply looking for a peaceful place to spend an afternoon, Fillingim Landing is well worth the drive.

#4 Morrison Springs

If you’ve never visited a Florida spring, Morrison Springs is an excellent place to start.

Located near Ponce de Leon, Morrison Springs is known for its incredibly clear water and year-round temperature of about 68 degrees. A large swimming area, floating dock, and boardwalk make it easy to enjoy the spring whether you’re swimming or simply taking in the view.

Certified cave divers travel from around the country to explore the spring’s underwater cavern system, but you don’t have to be a diver to appreciate its beauty. On a sunny day, the water’s clarity is remarkable.

#5 Ponce De Leon Springs

Just a few minutes from Morrison Springs, Ponce de Leon Springs State Park offers another refreshing place to escape the summer heat.

The natural spring maintains a temperature of about 68 degrees throughout the year, making it one of the coolest swimming spots in Northwest Florida. The park also features picnic tables, grills, restrooms, and short nature trails that wind through the surrounding forest.

It’s an easy destination for families and makes a great addition to a day trip exploring the springs of Washington and Holmes counties.

More Than Just the Beach

One of the best things about living in or visiting Northwest Florida is the variety of places to enjoy the outdoors. While the beaches often get the spotlight, these rivers, lakes, and springs offer a completely different experience and are well worth exploring.

Before heading out, check each park’s current hours, admission fees, and water conditions, especially after periods of heavy rain.

Cool Off with a Swim

Nothing beats the heat here like getting in the water, and you’ve got more options than just the beach. Our guide to the top 5 swimming areas for cooling off covers spring-fed lakes and rivers across the region, including Krul Lake, Blackwater River State Park, and the crystal-clear 65-degree waters of Morrison Springs. If you want a change of pace from the Gulf’s emerald water, these spots offer a refreshing, laid-back alternative, perfect for a family day trip.

Prefer calmer, protected water closer to Pensacola? The shoreline at Naval Live Oaks along Santa Rosa Sound is shallow and calm, making it an easy, low-key place to wade and swim (more on that below).

If you’d rather make a whole day of it, Blackwater River State Park is worth the drive east of Milton. Grab a tube and float down the cool, tannin-stained river, then dry off on the park’s white-sand beach. It’s one of our favorite family spots for swimming, tubing, and camping all in one trip.

Paddle Out: Kayaking Around Pensacola

Few places pack in as much paddling variety as Northwest Florida. Between bays, bayous, rivers, and Gulf-front launches, there’s a trip for every skill level. Our complete guide to kayaking in Pensacola breaks down launch points by area — from Big Lagoon and Perdido Key in the southwest, to the Blackwater River and Carpenter Park up north, to Bayou Texar and Bayview Park in the city.

For saltwater paddling, Big Lagoon State Park is a standout. It’s the terminus of the 1,515-mile Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail, with a dedicated kayak launch, salt marshes full of birdlife, and an observation tower with sweeping lagoon views.

Don’t have a kayak? No problem. Rentals (and even delivery) are available, so you can be on the water the same day you decide to go.

Picnic and Explore at Naval Live Oaks

For a quieter summer outing, Naval Live Oaks at Gulf Islands National Seashore in Gulf Breeze is hard to beat. Shaded picnic tables sit just steps from the shoreline beneath centuries-old live oaks; charcoal grills are available for a cookout; and there’s a covered pavilion for larger groups. Pack a lunch, take a walk on the easy 0.8-mile Breckenridge Nature Trail, then cool off in the calm waters of Santa Rosa Sound. It’s kayaking, swimming, and picnicking rolled into one stop.

Get Moving: Run, Walk, or Bike

If you want to work up a little sweat before you cool off, check out our list of 5 popular places to run, walk, or bike in Pensacola. Bayview Park’s mile-plus of trails along Bayou Texar is a local favorite, and the Pensacola Bayfront path from Project Greenshores to Bartram Park pairs a scenic route with a bit of maritime history along the way. Early mornings or evenings are your best bet for beating the summer heat on these routes.

Head Inland: Bear Lake Recreation Area

Looking for a weekend getaway that’s a bit further off the beaten path? Bear Lake Recreation Area, part of Blackwater River State Forest, is a great spot for hiking, biking, and fishing. A 4-mile trail circles the 107-acre lake, an off-road bike loop covers 6 miles, and the lake itself is stocked with bass, bluegill, and catfish for anglers with electric trolling motors. There’s no swimming here (for that, head to nearby Krul Lake), but between the trails, the campground, and the boat ramp, it’s an easy add-on to a Blackwater River weekend.

More Ways to Spend Your Summer

Beyond these favorites, the Gulf Coast has plenty more to offer this summer: paddleboarding on Pensacola Beach, fishing off a bayou pier, birdwatching at Project Greenshores, or just relaxing with a picnic at one of the many bayfront parks. However you spend it, the best of summer here is right outside your door.

Have a favorite summer spot we didn’t mention? Let us know — we’re always adding to our guides.

Unlike the busier beaches nearby, Naval Live Oaks is known for its quiet forests, towering live oak trees, and beautiful shoreline. It’s an excellent destination for families, photographers, hikers, paddlers, and anyone looking to spend a relaxing day outdoors.

Hiking Trails

Naval Live Oaks features more than 7.5 miles of interconnected hiking trails that wind through maritime forests filled with live oaks, magnolias, longleaf pines, red cedars, and other native vegetation. Several loops allow visitors to choose anything from a short nature walk to a longer afternoon hike.

One of the most popular trails is the Breckenridge Nature Trail, an easy 0.8-mile loop well-suited for families and casual hikers. Along the trail you’ll find shaded forests, native plants, interpretive signs, and scenic overlooks offering views across Santa Rosa Sound.

Throughout the year, visitors may spot wildflowers, butterflies, songbirds, woodpeckers, and other wildlife that call the maritime forest home.

Picnic Areas

The park offers numerous picnic tables scattered beneath the shade of mature live oaks, many located just steps from the shoreline. Charcoal grills are available throughout the picnic areas, making Naval Live Oaks a popular spot for lunch or an afternoon cookout.

A covered picnic pavilion is also available for larger gatherings.

Enjoy the Shoreline

The shoreline along Santa Rosa Sound provides a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the water. The protected sound typically offers calm conditions, making it popular for:

• Kayaking
• Paddleboarding
• Fishing
• Wading
• Swimming

While this is not a traditional Gulf beach, the shallow water and sandy shoreline make it a pleasant place to cool off on a warm day.

A Place Rich in History

Naval Live Oaks is part of Gulf Islands National Seashore and preserves one of the earliest federal tree farms in the United States.

During the early 1800s, these forests were protected because the massive live oak trees were highly prized for shipbuilding. Their naturally curved limbs were ideal for constructing the wooden hulls of U.S. Navy sailing ships. Today, visitors can still walk beneath many of these impressive trees while learning about the area’s important role in American maritime history through interpretive exhibits and informational signs located throughout the park.

Wildlife and Nature

The combination of maritime forest and shoreline creates habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. Depending on the season, visitors may see:

• Ospreys
• Great blue herons
• Egrets
• Woodpeckers
• Turtles
• Butterflies
• Native wildflowers

The peaceful setting also makes Naval Live Oaks a favorite destination for birdwatching and nature photography.

Tips for Your Visit

• Bring plenty of water, especially during the summer months.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes for the trails.
• Pack a picnic to enjoy beneath the live oaks.
• Bring binoculars if you enjoy birdwatching.
• Kayaks and paddleboards can be launched from the shoreline in suitable conditions.
• Help preserve this beautiful area by following Leave No Trace principles and staying on designated trails.

Whether you’re looking for a short family hike, a quiet picnic beneath centuries-old live oaks, or a relaxing afternoon by Santa Rosa Sound, Naval Live Oaks offers one of the most peaceful outdoor experiences in the Pensacola area.

Pictures from our time at the park

The Explorer Passport invites you to get outside and explore at your own pace. With 15 outdoor locations and 4 achievement levels, you’ll check in as you visit each stop, track how much of the Gulf Coast you’ve explored, and unlock new milestones along the way. It’s a simple, rewarding way to stay active, try new places, and make the most of our incredible outdoor backyard.

What you can expect:

• 15 unique outdoor locations to explore
• Hiking trails, boardwalks, waterways, and beaches
• Family-friendly and self-paced adventures
• Explore by foot, bike, or paddle

The Explorer Passport is perfect for individuals, families, or groups looking for a fresh way to enjoy the outdoors—whether you’re a longtime local or someone eager to explore more of the area. Each location offers a unique experience, from scenic overlooks and quiet wetlands to historic sites and peaceful coastal spots. Every check-in is another opportunity to slow down, explore deeper, and connect with the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast.

Along the way, the passport will guide you to places such as Big Lagoon State Park, the Edward Ball Nature Trail, Arcadia Mill, and more. These destinations are an invitation to step outside your routine and experience familiar places in a new way—or discover spots you may have driven past for years.

Whether you’re chasing miles, moments, or memories, the Outdoor Gulf Coast Explorer Passport gives you plenty of reasons to get outside—and keep coming back for more. Start your passport today and see how many places you can explore.

Kayak & Paddleboard Launch

The kayak launch at Bruce Beach provides access to the Pensacola Waterfront. It is a short walk from the parking area, so it’s recommended to have assistance or a cart for your kayak. The launch is handicap accessible. It is in a seagrass area, which is a pleasant spot for paddling and can help shield you from the wind.

Our adventure began at The Lodge, where we biked the pedestrian bridge to Lake Shelby. We hydrated, snapped photos, and plotted our course at Lake Shelby. We then took the lake crossing trail, an elevated boardwalk connecting the picnic area to the campground and the eastern lakeside trails. After exiting the boardwalk, we went north on Gopher Tortoise Trail to Campground Trail. On the Campground Trail, we stopped at a bridge where a small crowd had gathered to watch a stare-down between an alligator and some turtles. We continued on the Campground trail to Catman Trail, where we took a break at the Forest Pavilion and Butterfly Garden.

Our Bike Route

The Forest Pavilion and Butterfly Garden

The Forest Pavilion and Butterfly Garden are a perfect setting to rest and take in the park’s beauty. At the Forest Pavilion, you can picnic, refill water bottles, explore the gardens, and even test your bouldering skills. After recharging, we continued our ride on Catman Trail. At the end of Catman Trail, you can exit the park, head north to jump on Rattlesnake Ridge Trail, or head south on Cotton Bayou Trail. We opted to exit to get some food and coffee.

Bike Break and Coffee and Lunch At Local Cafes

We headed north on the bike path along Orange Blvd. to Canal Road and went west for a short distance to Cosmo’s Restaurant and BuzzCatz. After a delicious lunch of fish tacos at Cosmo’s, we got iced mochas at BuzzCatz Coffee Shop and sat in the grassy courtyard outside the cafe. It was terrific; we sat on the lawn and enjoyed the beautiful spring air, coffee, and company.

After coffee, we headed back down Canal Rd. to Orang Blvd., where we entered the park on Rattlesnake Ridge. We stayed on Rattlesnake Ridge to Gulf Oak Ridge, which takes you on windy and hilly trails through an upland forest with a stunning lookout on the ridge. This is my favorite section, and we have biked it with nonelectric and electric bikes. Having self-assistance in this section is a plus.

Views and Rest Breaks at Gulf Oak Ridge

The Gulf Oak Ridge is a good break point. We stopped and walked out on the observation deck that looked out from the ridge. Get your camera ready because this location is excellent for getting good shots. After taking in the view from the ridge, we continued biking until we arrived at Gopher Tortoise Trail and headed south toward home base. The Gopher Tortoise Trail brought us back to the lake crossing, where we concluded our e-bike adventure through Gulf State Park.

Adventure Checklist for a Memorable and Safe Adventure

If you plan a visit, here is our Adventure Checklist to make a memorable and safe adventure:

• Bikes
• Helmet
• Sunscreen
• Lock
• Backpack
• Phone for photos and navigation
• Stop by the visitor center for a map

About the Biria Folding Bikes Provided by Bikes Plus

Bikes Plus on 9th in Pensacola provided us with Biria folding bikes, which are great if you have limited room for transportation. We fit both bikes in the back of our Toyota Forerunner. We used the Series 5 on the Step-through 3.0. Both bikes are self-assist and have a hand throttle if you choose to use that. Top speed is around 20 mph.

Park Amenities:

• Walking Paths
• Park Benches
• Picnic Tables
• Unofficial Kayak Launch

So, if you’re looking for a perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature, visit the city park overlooking Seville Harbour and Pensacola Bay.

Where To Launch a Kayak

Bartram Park is a good option if you want a place downtown to access the water. The launch is a small open area at the back of the park in Seville Harbour.

Kayak Trip Ideas

We’ve unofficially named the kayak route from Bartram Park through Project Greenshores the William Bartram Kayak Trail. This kayak trail is one of our favorite urban bayfront paddling opportunities. The trail will take you past the living shoreline site B and the original living shoreline known as Project Greenshores.

To paddle the trail the trail, launch from the small access area on the south side of the park. Paddle northeast in Pensacola Bay until you arrive at the living shoreline. We recommend you paddle on the inside of the inlets. If paddling south of the estuary, use caution as submerged breakwater can hang up a kayak at certain tides.

Once you reach Muscogee Wharf, use caution when navigating the point to access site A of Project Greenshore.

William Bartram Kayak Trail Route