On a trip exploring the area known as the Florida Panhandle, if you drive on I10 (the highway that runs from Jacksonville (FL) to Santa Monica (CA), just after you pass Tallahassee, you will find Falling Waters State Park. It is the highest waterfall in the state and is located in a pleasant park that is perfect for resting especially after a long road trip. But… is Falling Waters State Park worth visiting? Here we tell you a little about our experience.
— Puedes leer esto en español aquí —
Remember that Florida is a state that does not have mountains, so of course this is not a ‘normal’ waterfall that we can see in other places from a mountain, so when visiting do not expect Angel Falls or Iguazú :).
Where is it located?
Falling Waters State Park is located in northwest Florida, near the small town of Chipley, about 25 miles (40km) south of the Alabama border. If you’re traveling from Tallahassee, the park is about a 1 hour and 45 minute drive (100 miles) west. If you visit from the south of the state, Miami is 600 miles from the park (about 965.6km), which implies a longer trip, approximately 9 hours by car. You can do like we did during our drive from Orlando to Destin, we stopped in Wakulla Springs for the night and then continued to Falling Waters.
About the Park
This park has the tallest waterfall in Florida, with a 73-foot drop into an underground cave. Although the waterfall can vary in strength depending on the season, it remains a unique spot in the state. There are many sink holes in the state, and that is the reason this place exists. That is, it is not a waterfall that falls from a mountain, but rather the water falls into that sinkhole, and it is unknown where the water ends up.
The park is open every day of the year, from 8am until sunset. Admission by car is $5 and the exact address is: 1130 State Park Road, Chipley FL 32428.
What other activity can we enjoy there?
In addition to the waterfall, Falling Waters State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including:
- Hiking: There are several trails that wind through the park, taking you through lush forests and to the waterfall.
- Camping: The park offers camping areas equipped with water, electricity and bathrooms. It is perfect for a weekend getaway in nature.
- Picnic: Designated picnic areas are equipped with tables and grills, perfect for a family day out.
- Swimming: There is an artificial lake in the park where you can cool off during the hottest days.
This can be an excellent option if you are on a road trip and want to take a little break, stretch your legs, or even spend a night camping. Of course, I recommend you reserve your camping space in advance.
Although I was not able to enjoy the waterfall at its best, visiting Falling Waters State Park is a good option for nature lovers. With its fascinating history, charming trails, and the opportunity to enjoy the peace and quiet of Northwest Florida, it is a park worth visiting. Of course I wanted to see the waterfall with more water, I don’t know why I expected something more than what I saw, but I also think it is a good option for those who are looking to explore beyond the beaches and theme parks in Florida.
Here’s a video about this place in North Florida: Don’t forget to click CC for English subtitles!
