Essential Gulf Islands: Top 7 Things to Know Before Visiting

Two states, 13 geographically located areas

Did you know Gulf Islands National Seashore consists of 160 miles in two states?

There are five barrier islands in Mississippi, and one mainland area. 

There are seven unattached areas in Florida, one is on a US Navy base.

A person walking got parking lot from beach

NPS/Wade

Welcome to Gulf Islands National Seashore

The nation’s largest national seashore, two states (Florida and Mississippi) one park. Learn more about the park and make plans for your visit at www.nps.gov/guis

Avoid Lines: Buy Before You Arrive

All visitors aged 16 and above must have a park entrance pass. All vehicles must display a pass visible through the windshield or on their persons. Passes are good for cardholders and up to 5 people in the same vehicle. Pass purchase options are described fully online at https://go.nps.gov/wort9z

Stay With Us

All sites in the Fort Pickens, Florida, and Davis Bayou, Mississippi, park campgrounds require a reservation from www.recreation.gov. Campers must also purchase an entrance pass in fee areas. Groups of 10 or more campers on Mississippi wilderness island require a permit along with most events. Email e-mail us to reserve.

There is no overnight parking allowed anywhere in the Gulf Islands. Camping reservations can be made for up to 14 consecutive days and are subject to evacuation based on weather. Pre-identify a backup campground before your visit. Accommodations may be available in nearby towns of Ocean Springs, Mississippi, or Pensacola, Florida. Explore nearby areas.

Ride With Us

Try a car-free experience. The Pensacola Bay City Ferry provides transportation to Fort Pickens and Pensacola Beach, and Ship Island Excursions provides transportation to Ship Island, Mississippi. Buy your tickets in advance. For a list of all other boat operators visit https://go.nps.gov/sa45h8

Protect Your Pet Privileges

Pets are welcome in Gulf Islands National Seashore, but rules apply. Federal law requires that all pets must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet (2 m) at all times. Collect and dispose of animal waste in trash containers. State laws prohibit dogs in the sand, on beaches, and in the water. Pets must be accompanied at all times. To find information about service animals or pet rules in Gulf Islands visit https://go.nps.gov/1glhbf

Your Safety Starts With You

All natural areas pose a risk. Your safety depends on your good judgment. Before setting out on the park’s waters or trails, carefully research the weather and hazards. All park outdoor programs are subject to cancellation due to weather. Most park areas close at or by sunset. Check for closures and current conditions at https://go.nps.gov/17n3u4Golf carts are prohibited in all areas of the park, with exceptions for mobility in the campgrounds only. Vehicles are prohibited from parking in non-marked parking spots, in the sand, or driving on the beach. For a map of the park visit https://go.nps.gov/1wrtwk

Leave No Trace

Please leave Gulf Islands as you find it. Walk only on designated trails and dune crossovers. Pack out trash and pet waste. Secure food and keep your distance from wildlife. Do not write on structures or signs. Do not go into enclosed nesting areas or closed buildings. If you discover a cultural artifact including bricks, leave it in place, snap a picture, note the location, and tell a park ranger. Learn more at https://go.nps.gov/6p8lvb

For Assistance

Life-threatening emergency DIAL 9-1-1

To report stranded live or dead mammals:
Mississippi: 1-888-767-3657
Florida: 1-888-404-3922

Report a non-emergency incident (car stuck in sand, crime, previous crime)
Gulf Breeze in Florida non-emergency 850-934-4050
Ocean Springs in Mississippi non-emergency 228-875-2211

For park questions call 850-934-2600