Waterfalls are some of the most beautiful natural wonders known to man. They're often considered the most magical and enchanting scenery on the planet. Many people don't think the flattest state in the country could possibly contain one, or if it did, it would have to be a tiny two-foot drop. In reality, Florida is home to a rather impressive waterfall that cascades 73 feet down an ancient sinkhole. Let's take a closer look at this hidden waterfall in Florida.
The waterfall can be accessed inside the 171-acre Falling Waters State Park in Chipley, located in Northwest Florida. The flow of the little-known waterfall in Florida is seasonal, and it depends heavily on the amount of recent rainfall in the area. The park recommends that guests call ahead to check the status of the waterfall before planning their trip.
The park also offers hiking, fishing, picnicking ,and camping in the heart of the Panhandle. This area has a rich history as well, as a home to Native Americans, a Civil War-era gristmill powered by the waterfall, and even the site of one of Florida's first oil wells. Falling Waters State Park is quite a hidden oasis in Florida.
So what are you waiting for? One of Florida's most beautiful natural landmarks at Falling Waters State Park is waiting for you to visit. Whether you go next weekend or wait for warmer weather, start planning your trip to this hidden oasis in Florida today.
Have you ever been to Falling Waters State Park to see the hidden waterfall in Florida? What are your favorite natural wonders in Florida? Please share your comments with us!
I'm going to be honest with you - Florida does not have the most magnificent waterfalls in the country. Trust me, I love Florida - born and raised. But when it comes to waterfalls, you won't find towering cascades like in the Midwest or on the West Coast. But, the good news for anyone looking to venture out and explore, there are a few hidden gem waterfalls in Florida that should be on your bucket list. Take Falling Creek Falls in Lake City, Florida, as a great example. Visitors will be able to stroll along a boardwalk through the forest and wind up at a stunning Florida waterfall cascading down a bluff. Sound like the perfect day trip yet?
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One of Florida’s most underrated waterfalls can be found north of Highway I-10 in the small area of Lake City.
Falling Creek Falls sits on 204 acres, managed in tandem by the Suwannee River Water Management District and Columbia County, Florida. While it isn’t a state park, there are still hiking opportunities available to get to the falls.
What makes visiting this waterfall unique is that the water flow is usually seasonally dependent, which means the more rain in a season, the better your chances are of seeing a rushing cascade.
However, if you want to disappear into nature for an afternoon to enjoy a delightful cascade flowing over limestone boulders, this is the hike for you.
What do you think about this incredible Florida waterfall hike? Have you trekked the Falling Creek Falls trail before? Sound off in the comments section! Or, if you want to see what other unique waterfalls Florida has to offer, we've covered nearly all of them!
Also, before you begin your hiking adventure, make sure to sign up for an AllTrails+ Membership. You'll get offline downloadable maps, alerts for wrong turns, conditions before you go, and so much more.
While Florida may not be known for its towering waterfalls like those found in other parts of the country, it still offers some picturesque cascades worth exploring, especially when you know where to look. If you're a nature fanatic, then you likely already know about the biggest waterfall in Florida (no hints yet!) or some truly great waterfall hikes in Florida. We're lucky to live in a state that has nearly perfect temperatures all year long, which means you can explore some of the best waterfalls in Florida 12 months out of the year. We've curated a list of some of our favorites, from the tallest waterfalls in Florida to some hidden gems. Before you get to Googling "waterfalls near me" take a look at our favorites and see what this beautiful state has to offer. These spots offer a variety of experiences, from gentle cascades to more dramatic plunges, and are located across different regions of the state.
In Florida, towering waterfalls aren't too common. But that just means the handful that we do have are very much worth celebrating. Among Florida's tallest waterfalls are Falling Waters State Park and Rainbow Falls, two cascading gems situated in their respective state parks. While not as monumental as those in other regions, these falls possess a distinct allure and beauty. They offer visitors a chance to connect with nature's tranquility and marvel at Florida's diverse landscapes, making them noteworthy destinations for exploration and appreciation.
Need To Know: Park is open 8 a.m. to sundown, 365 days a year. Fees to enter vary.
Falling Waters State Park in Florida is tucked away in the state’s panhandle near the town of Chipley. This waterfall plunges into a 100-foot-deep sinkhole, creating a mesmerizing sight, and making it the tallest waterfall in Florida. Visitors can admire the waterfall from an observation platform or hike down into the sinkhole for a closer look.
Popularity: Very high visitation on weekends and holidays.
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Need To Know: Park is open 8 a.m. to sundown, 365 days a year. Fees to enter vary.
Not only does Rainbow Springs State Park have one of America’s largest natural springs, but there are also beautiful waterfalls. As far as hidden waterfalls in Florida go, Rainbow Falls is truly a sight to see. Hike the two mile out-and-back trek in order to see a handful of various waterfalls, each ranging in cascade strength and size. These are some of the best waterfalls in Florida, hands down.
Best Waterfall Hikes In Florida
Florida's best waterfall hikes offer a chance to get outside and enjoy some exercise, while also witnessing some of the state's natural wonders. From the serene Devil's Millhopper to the picturesque Steinhatchee Falls, these hiking trails lead to stunning cascades of all varieties. Each hike presents an opportunity to immerse oneself in Florida's lush landscapes, with some treks clocking in at a few miles, and others under 30 minutes.
Location: Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park, Florida
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Popularity: Very popular on weekends.
Need To Know: Park is open 8 a.m. to sundown, 365 days a year. Fees to enter vary.
Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park is in Gainesville, Florida, and is one of the most unique natural parks in the entire state. This geological marvel features a bowl-shaped depression that extends 120 feet deep and 500 feet wide. At the bottom of this sinkhole, a small waterfall cascades down the limestone walls, adding to the park's allure. Visitors can descend into the sinkhole via a series of steps and boardwalks, allowing for an up-close view of the waterfall and the diverse ecosystem it supports.
Popularity: A hidden gem, that gets busy during warmer months.
Need To Know: Free to enter, but hiking is required. Open during daylight hours only.
Steinhatchee Falls in northern Florida is relatively small in size compared to our previous falls, but still well worth a day-trip visit. The tranquil cascades from Steinhatchee Falls, paired with the lush greenery, makes this a serene place to have a picnic or a relaxed afternoon. While this might not be the tallest waterfalls, it’s been dubbed the widest! Trek the 0.4-mile out-and-back hike to see this broad waterfall in person.
Need To Know: A 5.6-mile out-and-back trail that is rated moderately challenging. Possible seasonal closure.
On part of the Florida Trail from Lockwood to Barr hikers can enjoy a trek along a moderately challenging route that has a small waterfall along the way. The highlight of the trail undoubtedly lies in this waterfall. While not grandiose in size, its beauty more than compensates. This petite cascade exudes a calming, effervescent charm, enhancing the hiking experience. Its presence elevates this trek to one of Florida’s best waterfall hikes, especially as a hidden gem trail!
Need To Know: Gentle boardwalk hike, free to enter.
This great family-friendly waterfall hike lets guests walk along a boardwalk into the forest until they end up at a 10-foot waterfall. Cascading over limestone bluffs, Falling Creek Falls offers a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with nature in North Florida's lush wilderness. At around a half mile in length round trip, this hike is suitable for families, beginners, and anyone who wants a quick dose of nature without the heavy lift.
Popularity: Very high visitation on weekends and holidays.
Need To Know: Park is open 8 a.m. to sundown, 365 days a year. Fees to enter vary.
We mentioned Rainbow Falls as one of the tallest waterfalls in Florida, but did you know Rainbow Springs State Park has a few other waterfalls up its sleeve? Seminole Falls is situated along the two-mile trail, and if a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. This picturesque waterfall adds to the park's allure, cascading gently over limestone formations.
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Accessible Waterfalls In Florida (No Hiking Required)
For those seeking accessible waterfalls in Florida without the need for hiking, options abound. Man-made water features like those found in parks and gardens across the state offer easy access and tranquil settings. Take the Butterfly Rainforest at Florida Museum of Natural History or the giant cascades at Morikami Museum in Delray Beach. These accessible spots provide opportunities for all to enjoy the beauty and serenity of cascading waters without the requirement of strenuous hiking, welcoming visitors of all ages and abilities.
8. Butterfly Rainforest at Florida Museum of Natural History
The Butterfly Rainforest in the Florida Museum of Natural History features a stunning indoor waterfall as part of its lush tropical habitat. This waterfall adds to the immersive experience of walking through the rainforest environment, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the sight and sound of cascading water while observing the colorful butterflies fluttering among the tropical foliage.
Need To Know: Admission varies depending on age. Closed Mondays and major holidays.
The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is renowned for its serene and meticulously curated landscapes. Within these manicured gardens lies a captivating waterfall, a focal point of the scenery. Designed to evoke the essence of traditional Japanese gardens, the waterfall cascades gently over rocks, creating a calming and harmonious atmosphere. Visitors can stroll along winding pathways, admiring the lush foliage and listening to the soothing sound of flowing water.
Home of the longest running Polynesian Show in the United States Mai Kai Restaurant & Polynesian Show in Fort Lauderdale is coming back in a big way! After being closed for years, this hot spot is set for a return, and will be bigger than ever. Guests will still be able to sit outside on the Lanai overlooking the beauty of the gardens and the cascading waterfall as they dine. What an experience!
Best Waterfalls Near Orlando, Florida
While Orlando may be best known for its theme parks, nearby man-made wonders offer refreshing escapes, including enchanting waterfalls. Within a short drive of one another, adventurers can discover gems like Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort and Caribe Royale Orlando. These two resort-style hotels offer man-made waterfall features, which adds to the allure of their swimming pools, leveling up your vacation experience.
Popularity: Popular especially during summer months.
Need To Know: Room prices vary.
The Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Hotel offers an unparalleled experience near Walt Disney World Resort. With its sprawling grounds, pristine lakefront, and lush landscaping, this resort provides a tranquil retreat amidst the excitement of Orlando's attractions. But perhaps the highlight of the entire hotel experience is the pool, complete with a grotto cave and cascading waterfall. Fun for the whole family, this resort hotel is not to be missed.
Popularity: Popular on weekends and throughout summer.
Need To Know: Room prices vary.
At Caribe Royale Orlando guests will be treated to a resort-style experience in the heart of Orlando. Ditch the theme parks and enjoy a poolside getaway complete with a humongous cascading waterfall. Boasting spacious suites and upscale amenities, this hotel has a tropical allure that cannot be rivaled. Unwind by the pool and swim under this man-made waterfall for a truly unique experience.
All in all, the Sunshine State is filled with both natural waterfalls and man-made hidden gems. Whether you're visiting central Florida and hiking a nature trail or trekking the Florida panhandle looking for small cascades into clear water springs - this great state has it all. Do you love a good road trip to catch a stunning waterfall? Sound off in the comments section and let us know you're favorite year-round gem!
