News Release

Fort Pickens Area to Close Due to Anticipated Weather Conditions

Date: March 22, 2022
Contact: Susan Teel, 850-934-2618

GULF BREEZE, Fla. -- Gulf Islands National Seashore will close the Fort Pickens Area today, March 22, at 10 a.m. due to predicated weather conditions that could result in impassable conditions on Fort Pickens Road. 

Campers currently in the campground will need to evacuate by noon today. All campground reservations for Fort Pickens with arrivals for today and tomorrow will be canceled and credited. 

Park management implemented the park’s severe weather action plan, which indicates road closure when triggers are met for a combination of predicted high tides, wind direction and strength, and surf heights. These conditions combined typically cause the road to become covered with sand and significant flooding making the road impassable. Staff will assess road conditions on March 23. 

“This afternoon and overnight the park expects the road to accumulate overwash and sand on the road, and the current weather forecast predicts more rain and tidal overwash overnight,” said Superintendent Darrell Echols. “Reopening the road will be dependent upon wind and rain conditions, water receding, and our ability to remove sand from the road. 

“Our priority at Gulf Islands is to ensure the safest environment possible for park visitors and staff. The park will announce changes as appropriate, but current conditions do not allow for remaining open at this time.” 

For more information, please follow the park’s social media accounts and website.