Hidden Treasure in the Florida Panhandle

A 73-FOOT WATERFALL, one of Florida's hidden treasures, awaits visitors at Falling Waters State Park located near the city of Chipley. And, it's quite a discovery to uncover this gem of nature in the Panhandle of the Sunshine State.

There are several opportunities provided for outdoor activities in the park. However, there's no doubt that the waterfall is the park's centerpiece.

Numerous sinkholes with ferns growing everywhere line the board walk toward the tallest waterfall in the state. Water actually cascades 73 feet into a huge 100-foot deep, 20-foot wide cylindrical hole and soon thereafter just disappears into a cave. Park rangers have no idea where it goes from there. A couple of overlooks have been built along the walk to allow visitors to see the waterfall from different heights and angles. It is truly one of the most significant geological features in the entire state.

The park also offers several trails where nature lovers can see how Florida appeared to the Spaniards over 400 years ago. In addition, visitors can picnic among the towering pine trees, take a dip in the two-acre lake, or relax on a white sand beach. Fishing is permitted with a state freshwater fishing license.

Campers can spend the night in a pine forest in one of the nicest campgrounds anywhere. There are twenty-four campsites equipped with water, electricity, picnic tables, and grills. Pets are welcome with proof of vaccination. Restrooms are well maintained, as are other amenities found throughout the park. A park ranger offers fireside chats seasonally on Saturdays. A special camping area may be reserved for youth groups and organizations.

The story of Falling Waters goes back a long way. During the 1778 British occupation of Florida, Native Americans were still living at the site of the waterfall and in the surrounding area. Although no written records were left, artifacts are still found whenever a field is tilled for a new crop.

Falling Waters State Park is a unique and wonderful leisure destination. To get there, take the Chipley exit south off of I-10. Go 1 mile on State Road 77 then turn east on State Park Road and follow the signs on toward the park. The park is open 365 days a year from 8 a.m. until sunset. There is a small entrance fee.

Seeing and experiencing this Florida hidden treasure was a special delight. It proved to be even more than I had expected. Therefore, "two thumbs up" for the park - and the state's tallest waterfall!
______
-- Some information was provided by the Washington County Tourist Development Council.