Manager's Message
Hiking, nature study, bird watching and historical exploration are just a few of the outdoor activities offered at Tarkiln Bayou State Park.Take a few extra minutes at the information kiosk and familiarize yourself with the challenges of spending time in these natural areas. With approximately four thousand acres and seasonal weather conditions you will need to prepare.
The park continues working to improve fire breaks and fire lines. Large machinery is used for mowing and tree removal. Occasionally mowed debris from this equipment may become airborne. Please keep well away from these areas while machines are being utilized.
If you would like to camp while visiting the area, Big Lagoon State Park rents campsites.
- David Colbert, Park Manager
Welcome to Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park
The preserve is home to four species of endangered pitcher plants, as well as other rare and endangered plant species. The rare, carnivorous white–top pitcher plant is unique to the Gulf Coast and found only between the Apalachicola and Mississippi rivers. Almost 100 other rare plants and animals depend on the wet prairie habitat, including the alligator snapping turtle, sweet pitcher plant, and Chapman´s butterwort. A boardwalk offers visitors a view of the wild and beautiful Tarkiln Bayou. Visitors can enjoy a picnic and then take a hike on the nature trails to observe the rare plants and animals. For a more adventurous outing, visitors can take a day–hike across the park to the Perdido River. Located in Escambia County about 1.5 miles south of the intersection of U.S. 98 and State Road 293.
Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park, please call (850) 492–1595.
Hours of Operation
The park is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Central Time, everyday of the year.
Driving Directions
The entrance to the park is located 10 miles southwest of Pensacola on CR 293 approximately 2 miles south of US 98 and 7 miles north of SR 292A (Gulf Beach Highway).
Park Fees
Admission Fee:
$3.00 per vehicle. Please use the honor box to pay fees. Correct change is required. Limit 8 people per vehicle.
$2.00 Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.
Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park
C/O Big Lagoon State Park
Pensacola, Florida 32507
Phone: (850) 492–1595
Fax: none
