Gulf Islands National Seashore announces its summer (June-September) ranger programs schedule for the Florida Areas of the park. All programs are free and are subject to change without notification. For additional information, contact the national seashore at (850) 934-2600. There is an entrance fee to the Fort Pickens and Fort Barrancas Areas. There will be no public programs on June 12, 13, &27, July 8 & 11, August 22, and September 12.
Fort Barrancas Area –
The Fort Barrancas Area is open Thursday-Monday 8:30 am-4:30 pm.
Nature Walk: Life in a Maritime Forest
Thursdays through Mondays at 10:00 am; meet at the Fort Barrancas Visitor Center.
45 minute program; involves walking on uneven surfaces, sandy walkways, and steps.
Advanced Redoubt: Legacy in Brick & Mortar
Thursday through Mondays at 12:30 pm; meet at the entrance to Advanced Redoubt.
45 minute program; involves walking on uneven surfaces, sandy walkways, and steps.
Fort Barrancas: Bastions on the Bluffs
Thursdays through Mondays at 2:00 pm; meet at the Fort Barrancas Visitor Center.
45 minute program; involves walking on uneven surfaces, sandy walkways, and steps.
Naval Live Oaks Area –
Area is open daily from 8:30 am to sunset
Park Headquarters exhibits are open Monday-Friday 8:30 am-4:30 pm; closed federal holidays.
Kayaking 101: Reservations Required
Friday, Saturdays, and Sundays; call 850-916-5670 to reserve
60 minute program; Reservations are required. All equipment is provided.
All participants must weigh at least 50 pounds.
Fort Pickens Area-
The Fort Pickens Bookstore and Museum are open daily 8:30 am-4:30 pm.
Nature Walk: Life on a Barrier Island
Daily at 10:00 am; meet at the Fort Pickens Bookstore
30 minute program; fun for families, children must be accompanied by an adult.
Fort Pickens: Garrison for Freedom
Daily at 2:00 pm; meet at the entrance to historic Fort Pickens.
45 minute program; involves walking on uneven surfaces, sandy walkways, and steps.
Creature Feature
Daily at 3:30 pm; meet at the Fort Pickens Bookstore
30 minute talk; accessible; fun for families, children must be accompanied by an adult.
School of the Soldier
Saturdays and Sundays at 11:00 am, starting June 11 (Except June 18 & July 8);
meet at the entrance to historic Fort Pickens.
30 minute program; accessible. Program includes firing demonstrations when staff available.
Dusk on the Gulf – Evening Ranger Program
Saturdays at 6:30 pm; meet in the Battery Worth Amphitheater
30 minute program; accessible.
Stargazing
Friday, June 23, July 21, August 18, & September 22 at Sunset;
meet at the Battery Worth Picnic Area
Join park staff and volunteers from the Escambia Amateur Astronomer’s Association (EAAA) for a fun night out under the stars. Get an up close view of some celestial objects and learn more about the night sky. Telescopes will be available for use.
Bird Walk!
Monday, June 5 at 8:00 am – 10:00 am; meet at the Fort Pickens Bookstore
Discover some of Gulf Islands’ spring time residents during this stroll along the beach and maritime forest. Fun for bird lovers of all ages and skill levels. Binoculars and field guides will be available for use. Wear sunscreen and bring water.
Other Areas Information:
Perdido Key Area- The Perdido Key Area is open daily 5:00 am-10:00 pm.
Santa Rosa Day Use Area – Day Use Areas are open from 8:30 am to sunset.
Okaloosa Day Use Area – Day Use Areas are open from 8:30 am to sunset.