The Florida Park Service acquired Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park in 1966 through a lease agreement with the U.S. Forest Service. The Park was named for U.S. Air Force Colonel Fred Gannon who was Director of Civil Engineering at Eglin Air Force Base prior to that time. Colonel Gannon was instrumental in the creation and construction of the park. He transformed from the land’s earlier use as a World War II bombing practice range. The remains of a concrete practice bomb, believed to be one of those dropped by Colonel James “Jimmy” Doolittle’s squadron, during preparations in early 1942 for the first retaliatory bombing of Japan, can be seen on the park.

Although easily convenient to the beaches of Okaloosa county, shopping, first class dining, and area attractions, the park provides a tranquil and serene environment away from the noise and the hustle and bustle, offering visitors the best of both worlds.

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 Fees

Admission Fees - $3.00 per vehicle
Pedestrians, Bicyclists, Extra Passengers, Passengers In Vehicles With Holder of Annual Individual Entrance Permit, Members of Organized Groups - Admission Fee $1.00

Boat Ramp Fee - $2.00 above admission fee

Picnic Pavilion Fee - $75.00 per day

Camping Fees
All Year $12.00 plus tax

Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park 4281 Hwy 20 Niceville, Florida 32578 Phone: 850-833-9144 Fax: Contact Park for Number Park Manager: Benjamin Faure