Niceville, Florida

Contact Information
4281 Hwy 20
Niceville, Florida 32578
Phone: 850-833-9144

Reservation Information: 1-800-326-3521

Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park was acquired in 1966 through a lease agreement with the U.S. Forest Service, this 357-acre recreation area 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.

Hours of Operation
Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.

Driving Directions
From the west: Take Interstate 10 east to highway 85 south until you reach highway 20. Go east on highway 20. Park will be approximately 5 miles on the left. From the east: Take Interstate 10 west to highway 331 south until you reach highway 20.

Go west on highway 20 approximately 25 miles until you see signs for park on right.

Park Activities
Boating, Boat Ramp, Full Camping, Campfire Circle, Fishing, Nature Trails, Picnicking, and Swimming 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.