The deck area at the park is currently under construction. We soon will have two beautiful shade structures for our visitors to sit under and enjoy a picnic. Access to the pool and the beach is still open, but our deck area will be closed until the structure is complete. Thank you for your understanding.
Know Before You Go
Effective May 16, 2022: William J. “Billy Joe” Rish Recreation Area is pleased to expand its operating hours. Beginning Monday, May 16, the park is open from 8 a.m. to sunset, seven days a week.
Hours
8 a.m. to sunset (Eastern time zone), 365 days a year
Welcome to William J "Billy Joe" Rish Recreation Area.
Beautiful white-sand beaches and sea oat-covered dunes welcome visitors to the beach and the blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Stretching from the Gulf of Mexico across the peninsula to St. Joseph Bay, this 100-acre park provides an opportunity to explore the beach, the bay and the natural resources between.
This recreation area has been designated to provide recreational opportunities for people with disabilities, their families and their caregivers.
The recreation area offers day-use opportunities and an event hall. Boardwalks provide access to a mile of beach. Visitors can travel through the underground tunnel to the bayside to launch a canoe or kayak.
Our 4-foot-deep swimming pool with wheelchair access is now open for visitor use. We are also offering ranger programs covering different aspects of the park. In the future, we will be offering cabins for overnight accommodations as well as equipment rentals on site.
