Visit the Gulf Islands National Seashore Davis Bayou, part of a coastline stretching for 160 miles (257 kilometers) across Florida and southern Mississippi. Get away from big cities and overpopulated tourist sites at this peaceful location, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Stop at the William M. Colmer Visitor Center when you first arrive or after you’ve settled in. Here you can review indoor exhibits about the shoreline, including the region’s multiple barrier islands that provide important protection from strong wind, rain and waves swirling up from the Gulf of Mexico. Watch a video and view exhibits to learn about the area’s plants and animals. Check the weekend schedule for any ranger-led nature programs.
Hiking is popular in the park. Follow the 2-mile (3-kilometer) Davis Bayou Trail to understand what a bayou is. Pick up a trail map at the visitor center. As you pass marshy water and walk through coastal forest, look for native creatures, such as alligators, turtles, crabs and seabirds. Bring picnic supplies and find a spot to sit and eat quietly, giving birds and animals less fear of making a closer approach.
If you want to fish, go to the Visitor Center Fishing Pier. Pre-purchase a state fishing license for anyone over the age of 16. Expect to catch either freshwater or ocean fish in these boundary waters.
Pay a fee to use the boat launch to make a trip to the beaches of one of the barrier islands. Reserve one of the more than 50 tent and RV sites that are available year round for overnight camping.
Travel to the Gulf Islands National Seashore Davis Bayou with about a 15-minute drive east of Ocean Springs, Mississippi, or in 4 hours from Panama City Beach, Florida. Facilities and amenities are generally open during daylight hours.
Find free parking at the visitor center and at the pier. Be aware that this area is subject to evacuation if storms are expected. Learn how to receive local weather alerts and find out how to get to the evacuation route from your location.