Exploring The Natural Wonders of Florida’s Falling Waters State Park: Historic Sites, Sinkholes, And Magical Hidden Waterfalls

The state of Florida holds many surprises, but this one is sure to astound and enchant you. Were you aware the Sunshine State has a secret waterfall?

That’s right, you heard me correctly: a secret waterfall.

Hidden away near the small town of Chipley, Florida, less than two miles from the I-10 exit, you will discover Falling Waters State Park, and what you’ll find here is something completely unexpected—a unique geological formation known to geologists as karst topography.

Karst topography is the result of an interactive erosion process on a specific landscape between groundwater and soft stone (such as limestone) over millions of years. The results of this process are amazing formations such as natural bridges, springs, sinkholes, and, you guessed it, waterfalls.

Florida’s Secret Waterfall

The falls at Falling Waters State Park are quite different from others you may have seen across the country—or the world, for that matter!

The tallest waterfall in Florida, this waterfall drops directly into a sinkhole, combining two distinct types of geological formations into one, making this one of the rarest types of waterfalls on the planet.

Despite this incredible distinction, it is nowhere near as well known as its fellow Sunshine State wonder, the Florida Everglades, located far to the south. In fact, this natural wonder isn’t located in or protected by any national park; instead, it lies inside the small, quiet state park which bears its name. There are no long lines of tourists with cameras in hand. Most days, you’ll only find a few locals who’ve come to swim in the cool waters of nearby Turtle Lake or maybe some campers from the park’s Pine Ridge Campground.

While you won’t find a bunch of people, what you will find is something rare and beautiful—a 74-foot waterfall dropping directly into a 100-foot-deep sinkhole with a 20-foot wide Caldara. The park’s historical markers explain that the falls were created between 20 to 30 million years ago while Florida was still underwater. A dissolution process eroded portions of rock throughout the limestone, creating a honeycomb-type effect which eventually collapsed in on itself, thus creating the sinkhole. Finally, water from nearby Turtle Lake seeped through hollowed tubes running under the bluff that separates the lake from the sinkhole, which led to the formation of the beautiful waterfall we see today.

More Park Secrets

Once you have visited the park’s falls and taken a swim at Turtle Lake’s designated swimming area, be sure to keep exploring because Falling Waters State Park has a few more secrets to share with its visitors. There are several other archeological sites located inside the park!

As you walk along the boardwalk covered by the shade of the dense Florida pine forest, keep a look out for the remains of the old grist mill. The mill dates back to the 1860s, giving visitors a glimpse into the old Florida pioneer days.

You will also discover the remains of Florida’s first oil well. The remains of the old rig can still be seen today, built by wildcatters in the early part of the 20th century.

Perhaps the most fascinating thing to discover about the area is the fact that researchers have discovered artifacts of Native American cultures dating back over five thousand years. Scientists believe the park may have been a sacred site for native populations going back at least five millennia.

Let’s Get Hitched

One of the great things to do at Falling Waters State Park is to get hitched. For those on a budget who are still looking for that special place, Falling Waters could be the perfect backdrop to tell that special person in your life “I do.” The best part is the cost. Getting married near the waterfall is, wait for it… FREE! Wow, I bet ya haven’t seen daddy smile that big since grandma made her special bourbon pecan pie last Thanksgiving. Daddy says, “the price is right!”

There are a few things you will need to know, though. First, you will need to reserve both your wedding date and the two pavilions nearby with the park office well in advance. Second, the date obviously needs to be available as it is one wedding per day program. And finally, everyone in your party will need to pay the park’s $5.00 entry fee to enter the park that day.

Falling Waters State Park Campground

One of the other things to be aware of is there is a campground on site. However, it is not very large. Pine Ridge Campground, located near the front entrance, lists only twenty-four available campsites. The campground is popular with residents throughout North Florida and RV enthusiasts who visit Florida throughout the year, as well as families located around some of the nearby Southern states. Anyone in your party wishing to use the campground for lodging should book well in advance of your wedding date.

Park Amenities

As we established earlier, Falling Waters State Park features a great swimming and recreational area located on the shoreline of Turtle Lake. A few barbeque grills and picnic tables are available here as well.

A designated fishing area for anglers is located nearby, too. You won’t catch a prize-winning bass here, but there are plenty of panfish—such as Blue Gill and Sunfish—which you and the kids can enjoy reelin’ in!

Also, as previously mentioned, there is a large family area featuring two large family pavillions with a children’s playground.

Hiking at Falling Waters State Park is minimal but still enjoyable. The park has three small hiking trails which form a loop between the parking lot, Turtle Lake, and the Falls. While only encompassing a little over one mile, there is still plenty to see, including several other sinkholes mixed among several bluffs.

The landscape is rather unexpected because of the “flat Florida” perception many people have of the state. Near the falls, at the top of the bluff, visitors are sometimes shocked to find themselves at 320 feet elevation, gazing down upon smaller bluffs and sinkholes with pleasant views of Turtle Lake in the distance.

Wildlife Watching

An abundance of wildlife is present in the park, including whitetail deer, fox, possum, raccoon, and various snake species such as the pine and indigo snakes. Always be aware of Florida’s venomous snakes, such as the coral, copperhead, and cottonmouth as well. Bird watching is also a great activity for your visit. Some bird species you might spot include the Red-Billed Woodpecker, Red Tail Hawk, and Western Tanager.

Although the park is very dog friendly (yay!), canine visitors must be kept on a 6-foot leash while inside the park.

Finally, there is a primitive group camping site in addition to the campground. The site features several benches, picnic tables, a large fire ring, and nearby restroom facilities with toilets and sinks available. Showers can be found at the bathhouse at Pine Ridge campground.

---

So if you are looking for one of Florida’s hidden jewels, we highly suggest paying a visit to Falling Waters State Park. It’s one of the best-kept secrets in the Sunshine State!

If you enjoyed this article or have suggestions, please leave us a comment below.

Cover Image

Photo: Unsplash

Recommended Gear for this Adventure

Disclaimer: We earn a commission if you click any of the links above and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.