Big Lagoon State Park

Nestled between the mainland and Perdido Key, the Big Lagoon State Park is a pawtastic spot to spend some time in the outdoors with your canine companion. This 704-acre coastal park's diverse natural communities, which include saltwater tidal marshes and pine flatwoods, not only attract migratory birds, but also draw numerous outdoor enthusiasts.

Visitors to Big Lagoon can enjoy a wide variety of activities such as hiking, camping, swimming, and boating. The park serves as a starting or ending point for the 1,515-mile Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail, making it a pawpular location among kayakers. Seafaring pups will have to sit this water trail out, though, as pets are not allowed on the beaches and waterways of Escambia County. Sorry, water-loving doggos!

Furtunately, four-legged guests are allowed in many areas of the park, including the nature and hiking trails. Athletic pooches will be pleased to know that there are 5 miles of paths to explore at Big Lagoon—enough to tire out even high-energy puppers. Before you and Fido hit the trails, however, make sure you're equipped with sunscreen, plenty of water, and enough doggie waste bags. Borrow a pair of binoculars from the ranger station, too, if you'd like to spot the various bird and wildlife species in the coastal forest.

You and Fido can also try your hand at geocaching, an interactive outdoor game that's a furrific way to learn geography. While your pup won't care about the geography lesson, they'll certainly have a woofing good time exploring new parts of the park with you. Wherever your journey takes you, always keep your doggo on a leash and clean up after them. If you'd like to extend your adventure, make yourselves at home in the park's dog-friendly campground, which offers 75 sites that can be reserved up to 11 months in advance.

For an unfurgettable outdoor experience in Pensacola, visit the Big Lagoon State Park with your pup!