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Historic fort · Pensacola, Florida
Fort Pickens
Brick fort built between 1829 and 1834 on the western tip of Santa Rosa Island, part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, where Apache leader Geronimo was once held, with beaches and trails around it.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Fort Pickens
Fort Pickens was built by the United States Army between 1829 and 1834, using more than 21 million bricks, to defend the entrance to Pensacola Bay. During the Civil War, it was one of the few Southern forts that remained in Union hands throughout the conflict.
From 1886 to 1888, the fort held the Apache leader Geronimo and other Apaches as prisoners; they received visitors curious enough to come from Pensacola. The fort was used by the Army until World War II, with concrete artillery batteries constructed around it.
The visit takes you through vaulted brick galleries, tunnels and the ramparts, with views over the bay entrance and the Gulf. The Fort Pickens area, within Gulf Islands National Seashore, also has undeveloped beaches, trails and camping. The access road is frequently damaged by storms and has been closed for long periods.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to two hours at the fort; half a day including the beach.
Best time
Morning or late afternoon, when it’s cooler. The road can close due to storms and maintenance; confirm before you go.
How to get there
It’s at the western tip of Santa Rosa Island, about 15 km west of Pensacola Beach via Fort Pickens Road. A vehicle entrance fee is charged for Gulf Islands National Seashore.
Tip
Bring a flashlight for the tunnels and allow time for the Fort Pickens beach, one of the island’s quietest.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Fort Pickens
Was Geronimo held prisoner at Fort Pickens?
Yes. Apache leader Geronimo and other Apaches were held prisoner at the fort from 1886 to 1888.
How do you get to Fort Pickens?
Via Fort Pickens Road on Santa Rosa Island, about 15 km west of Pensacola Beach. The road can close during storms; confirm before you go.
Does Fort Pickens charge an entrance fee?
The Gulf Islands National Seashore vehicle entrance fee is charged.