Campsite C47

Nestled within the breathtaking beauty of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, Campsite C47 at Fort Pickens Campground offers an unparalleled camping experience on Florida's emerald coast. This specific campsite is part of a larger, well-regarded campground known for its stunning white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and rich historical significance. Fort Pickens Campground, a popular destination for both RV and tent campers, provides a serene and engaging backdrop for your next outdoor adventure in Pensacola Beach.

Campsite C47, like its neighboring sites, provides a perfect blend of natural immersion and essential comforts. Whether you're a seasoned RVer, a family looking for a memorable tent camping trip, or an individual seeking a peaceful escape, this location promises an unforgettable experience. The tranquil sounds of the Gulf, the salty sea breeze, and the captivating history of Fort Pickens all contribute to a truly unique Florida camping experience. It's a place where you can wake up to the sunrise over the water, spend your days exploring historic forts or relaxing on the beach, and enjoy evenings under a canopy of stars.

Campsite C47 is located at 1463 Fort Pickens Rd, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561, USA. This address places it squarely within the Fort Pickens Campground, which is itself a prominent feature of the Gulf Islands National Seashore on Santa Rosa Island. The location is truly a highlight, offering direct access to both the tranquil waters of Pensacola Bay and the vibrant Gulf of Mexico.

Access to Fort Pickens Campground is via Fort Pickens Road, which extends west from Pensacola Beach. There is an entrance fee required to enter the Fort Pickens Area of Gulf Islands National Seashore, which is separate from camping fees. This fee typically covers seven consecutive days. The campground is well-signposted, and once inside the Fort Pickens Area, visitors can easily navigate to their designated loops and individual campsites. Loops A and E generally accommodate tents, pop-ups, trailers, and RVs with power and water hookups, while other loops like B and D may be restricted to tents or smaller RVs and might not have direct hookups at every site. Campsite C47 is located in Loop C, which is open to tents, pop-ups, trailers, and RVs, and features power or water hook-ups.

The campground's position on a barrier island means it's remarkably close to natural attractions. The historic Fort Pickens itself is just a short distance away, making historical exploration easily accessible on foot or by bike. For those arriving from further afield, Pensacola International Airport (PNS) is a convenient gateway, and the drive from the airport to Pensacola Beach and then to Fort Pickens Road is straightforward, offering scenic views along the way.

• Campsites: Fort Pickens Campground, where Campsite C47 is located, offers 137 sites with electricity (20, 30, and 50 amp) and water hookups, suitable for RVs, trailers, pop-ups, and tents. Additionally, there are 40 non-electric tent sites and a group tent site. Each individual campsite, including C47, typically features a paved pad, picnic table, and a fire ring with a grill.

• Restrooms and Showers: Modern and clean bathhouses with flush toilets and hot showers are available throughout the campground loops, ensuring comfort for all campers.

• Laundry Facilities: A coin-operated laundromat is conveniently located within the campground, allowing campers to refresh their clothes during their stay.

• Dump Station: A designated dump station is provided for RVs to dispose of waste properly.

• Drinking Water: Potable water is readily available throughout the campground, including centralized water spigots in non-hookup loops.

• Camp Store: While not always a full-service store, basic camping necessities and sometimes firewood are available for purchase at the campground office or a small camp store.

• Campground Host: On-site campground hosts are often available to assist campers with questions, provide local information, and ensure regulations are followed, contributing to a pleasant stay.

• Accessibility: Fort Pickens Campground offers wheelchair-accessible sites with and without electricity, and accessible restrooms and showers are also available.

• Check-in/Check-out: The campground operates with specific check-in (typically after 1 PM) and check-out (typically by 11 AM) times. Campers can often proceed directly to their reserved site upon arrival.

• Proximity to Beaches: One of the foremost highlights of Campsite C47 and Fort Pickens Campground is its exceptional location right on Santa Rosa Island, offering immediate access to the pristine white sand beaches of the Gulf of Mexico and Pensacola Bay. This means easy walks to the shore for swimming, sunbathing, shelling, or simply enjoying the ocean breeze.

• Historic Fort Pickens: The campground is just minutes from the impressive Fort Pickens, a historic masonry fort that played a significant role in American history. Visitors can explore its batteries, learn about its past, and enjoy panoramic views of the Gulf and the bay.

• Nature and Wildlife: The area is part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, a protected barrier island ecosystem. This means abundant opportunities for wildlife viewing, including migratory birds, sea turtles (especially during nesting season from May to October), dolphins offshore, and various coastal flora and fauna. Birdwatching and nature photography are popular activities.

• Recreational Trails: The Florida National Scenic Trail runs through the Fort Pickens Campground, connecting the historic district to Fort Pickens and Langdon Beach. This offers excellent opportunities for walking, running, and bicycling on paved and unpaved trails. Other trails like Battery Cooper Trail and Loggerhead Trail also provide scenic routes.

• Fishing Pier: A fishing pier is located a short distance from the Fort, accessible to visitors without a Florida fishing license, providing a great spot for recreational fishing.

• Year-Round Operation: Unlike some campgrounds that close seasonally, Fort Pickens Campground is open for reservations year-round, allowing visitors to experience its beauty in all seasons, each offering a unique charm.

• Paved Sites and Roads: The campground features paved roads and individual campsite pads, making it easy to set up and navigate, even for larger RVs (though some sites may have length or height restrictions).

• Ranger Programs: The National Park Service often offers interpretive programs and ranger-led tours, especially during peak seasons, providing educational and engaging experiences about the area's history and natural environment.

Address: 1463 Fort Pickens Rd, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561, USA

Phone:

• For campground inquiries: 850-934-2622

• For reservations (Recreation.gov): 1-877-444-6777

Website: For reservations and detailed information, visit the Fort Pickens Campground page on Recreation.gov or the Gulf Islands National Seashore website (nps.gov/guis).

Note: There is no mail service directly to the campground address.

For Florida residents, especially those living within a reasonable driving distance of the Panhandle, Campsite C47 at Fort Pickens Campground represents an ideal local getaway. It offers the perfect blend of convenient access and an immersive natural and historical experience without the need for extensive travel. Imagine being able to pack up your camping gear or RV and, within a few hours, be transported to a serene coastal paradise.

The allure for locals lies in several key aspects. Firstly, the affordability of camping compared to other lodging options on Pensacola Beach makes it an attractive choice for weekend trips or longer vacations. Having a dedicated campsite like C47, with its power and water hookups, provides a comfortable base from which to explore. The proximity to stunning, uncrowded beaches is a major draw; locals can enjoy the Gulf's natural beauty without battling the crowds often found at more commercialized beach access points.

Furthermore, the unique combination of natural landscapes and rich history sets Fort Pickens Campground apart. Locals can repeatedly visit and still find new aspects to explore, whether it’s hiking a different trail, spending a day at the historic fort, or simply enjoying the diverse wildlife. This offers a depth of experience that is often missing from more generic beach vacations. For families, it’s an excellent educational opportunity, allowing children to learn about history firsthand and connect with nature in a safe, protected environment.

The year-round accessibility of the campground means Florida residents can choose to visit during cooler, less crowded months, perfect for hiking and exploring without the intense summer heat. The on-site amenities, including clean bathhouses and laundry facilities, add to the convenience, making even longer stays comfortable. For those in Pensacola and nearby communities, Campsite C47 at Fort Pickens Campground isn't just a place to stay; it's a cherished local resource for relaxation, recreation, and cultural enrichment, providing an accessible slice of paradise right in their backyard.

Campsite C47

1463 Fort Pickens Rd, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561, USA