Waterfalls in Florida? That may seem unreal to anyone who’s ever visited the flatlands of this mountain free state, but it’s true. Many of the falls in the state also have access to unbelievable views, full facility campgrounds, swimming and some of the best hiking opportunities in the nation. So come on down and visit some of Florida’s best waterfalls.
This unique Florida state park has been visited by curious tourists since the 1880’s. A National Natural Landmark, Devil’s Millhopper is a bowl-shaped sinkhole that is over 120 feet deep. Researchers and scientists have studied this are for decades and have found such fossilized remains as shark teeth, shells, three toed camels, early horses, wooly mammoths and other extinct prehistoric remains.
A ½ mile trail skirts the outer edge of this 500 feet across depression, allowing you to see the many streams that fall into the bottom of the sink, creating tiny waterfalls by the handful. A 220 step (I counted them) boardwalk takes you down into the sinkhole to view the inside of this amazing spectacle. Several waterfalls trickle down the embankment before disappearing underground into the Florida Aquifer. For directions, fees and hours of operations at this Gainesville, Florida waterfall, you can visit the website here.
The name says it all. Falling waters State park is home to Florida’s highest natural waterfall. At over 70 feet, it’s quite a drop. This sinkhole waterfall is located in a tube shaped pit that drops down steep sides 100 feet deep. Gorgeous ancient oaks and soft green ferns cover this semi-hilly area in North Florida. Located just south of I-10, it’s a great spot to stop for a picnic lunch when you’re on the road.
The waterfall is fed by several seepage springs that are active only during the wet season. You may want to call ahead (850-638-6130) before you visit, otherwise you might be disappointed. However, when it is flowing, it’s amazing. And the coolest part of it all-as the waterfalls into the sinkhole, it flows underground and disappears into an area still unknown to this day.
Stay the night at Florida’s highest campground, swim in the lake or try one of the many other activities at this great Florida waterfall. For more information on all of the amenities at Falling Waters State Park, visit the website here.
This park is by far my most favorite and not because I live right down the street either! The gardens, springs and waterfalls of this park have been visited by people for 14,000+ years. Prehistoric man, Timuctuan Indians, Seminole Indians, European settlers and the first Florida tourists have come to this park. It’s also home to one of Florida’s first Theme Parks and remnants of the original structures from the 1920’s are still here today.
Two major waterfalls are located here in this central Florida state park. The largest, Seminole Falls, cascades down a beautifully landscaped garden over 100 feet. All of the gardens and falls are manmade, holdovers from the early theme park that once took visitors through exotic gardens, a huge aviary and through a large zoo.
Much of the area has been restored and the falls are more beautiful then ever. Best time to visit this park is during spring when the azaleas are in full bloom. If you don’t come for the waterfalls, you’re sure to come for the flower bloom. Learn more here about this gorgeous waterfall and state park, including directions, hours of operation and camping information.
