Fort Pickens vs Fort Barrancas Florida

[RVcrazy]

After reviewing the info online, I am still having trouble comparing these locations & experiences. Can anyone tell me more about what you can see & do at each? Do you need ID to visit Fort Barrancas? Is there more than just the visitor center for tourists? Which do you recommend & why? Thanks!

[rwess]

Fort Barrancas is on the Naval Air Station just down the street from the Naval Aviation Museum. That part of the base is open to everyone. You have to enter NAS Pensacola from the west gate, not the main gate to visit this area if you do not have military ID. This area also includes the lighthouse. You can visit all three for free and is definitely worth it. As far as comparing the two forts, Pickens is much bigger and has a lot more to see. Camping is also at Fort Pickens. My wife and I spent 2 weeks there in June and also 3 nights at the RV park on the base. I am retired Navy.

[Bird_Freak]

We love Fort Pickens. Never heard of the other.
Pickens has fantastic beaches. The Blue Angels can be seen practicing when they are in town and the Naval Air Museum is a must see. Pensacola beach has great food and Joe Paddys Sea food market is also a must go to place.
Lots to see and do in Pensacola.

[agesilaus]

I never even heard of Ft Barancas until I saw it here, Looks like no camping or much of anything else


I believe Picken has camping and is quite popular.