Parks

Fort Massachusetts is one of the four forts built in 1800s preserved by Gulf Islands National Seashore.

Millions of visitors are drawn to the Gulf of Mexico for Gulf Islands National Seashore's emerald coast waters, magnificent white beaches, fertile marshes and historical landscapes. Come explore with us today!

Map showing location of park.

Gulf Islands National Seashore opens the Fort Pickens Area following Hurricane Helene

2024-09-29

Gulf Islands National Seashore will reopen the Fort Pickens Area at 8 a.m. on Monday, September 30. Fort Pickens Campground check-in will begin at 1 p.m. Parking lots 17A and 19A will remain closed.

Gulf Islands National Seashore’s Opal Beach Complex reopens after Hurricane Helene

2024-09-28

Gulf Islands National Seashore’s Opal Beach Complex will reopen at 8 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 29. The Fort Pickens Area, including the campground, remains closed due to clean up efforts.

Gulf Islands National Seashore post Hurricane Helene closure update

2024-09-27

The Fort Pickens Area, including the campground, and the Opal Beach Complex within Gulf Islands National Seashore remain closed until further notice due to storm surge from Hurricane Helene.

Gulf Islands National Seashore closing Fort Pickens and Okaloosa Areas in preparation for Tropical Storm Helene

2024-09-24

Gulf Islands National Seashore (GUIS) will close the Fort Pickens and Okaloosa Areas to day use beginning at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, September 24 in preparation for Tropical Storm Helene. The Fort Pickens area, including the campground will be closed effective 12 p.m. on Wednesday, September 25. Reservations will be cancelled through and including Friday, September 27.

Gulf Islands National Seashore opens the Fort Pickens Area following Hurricane Francine

2024-09-14

The Fort Pickens area closed Sept 9.