Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park is located
on the
Choctawhatchee Bay,
across the bridge from Destin, Florida. The 357-acre park
was acquired in 1966 through a lease agreement with the U.S.
Forest
Service and was named for U.S. Air Force Colonel Fred Gannon who
was instrumental in the construction of the park.
The park is noted for its sandpine forest where large, mature
sand pines tower over other scrub vegetation such as rosemary,
reindeer moss and scrub oaks. Indian middens and artifacts can
be seen throughout the park.
Full Facility Camping
This
357-acre park has 42 campsites with electric and water hookups
available for reservation through Reserve America.
Fishing
Saltwater fish may be caught in Rocky Bayou. Freshwater fishing
is available where Rocky Creek flows into the bay. (Salt and
freshwater fishing licenses are required in Florida.)
Nature Trails
Three trail loops are designated within the park. A self-guided
booklet for the Sand Pine Trail interprets the natural values of
the sandpine forest. The Rocky Bayou and Red Cedar nature trails
meander through other prominent plant communities. Ranger-guided
walks and campfire programs are offered seasonally.
Picnicking
Campsites
and picnic shelters overlook scenic Rocky Bayou, an arm of
Choctawhatchee Bay.
