St. Marks River Preserve State Park

Tucked into the rolling terrain south of Tallahassee in Leon County, St. Marks River Preserve State Park protects nearly 2,600 acres of longleaf pine flatwoods, hardwood hammocks, and the headwaters of the historic St. Marks River. Established in 2007, this preserve feels like a well-kept secret among North Florida’s outdoor crowd — close enough to the capital for a day trip, but remote enough to deliver real solitude.

The park’s defining feature is the St. Marks River itself, which begins here as a series of springs and sinks before flowing south toward the Gulf of Mexico. Hikers and trail runners will find miles of unpaved paths winding through pine forests managed with prescribed fire, meaning open understories, wildflowers in season, and excellent birding. Equestrian trails draw riders from across the region, and the flat-to-gently-rolling topography makes this an accessible outing for most fitness levels. Wildlife sightings — white-tailed deer, gopher tortoises, and red-shouldered hawks — are common, especially in the quieter morning hours.

Camping availability is not currently confirmed, so check with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection before planning an overnight stay. Day-use visitors will find the park well-suited to a half-day or full-day outing.

The best time to visit is late fall through early spring, when temperatures cool into the 50s and 60s and mosquito pressure drops significantly. Summer visits are doable but humid — bring water and bug spray.

With a 4.3-star rating from visitors, St. Marks River Preserve rewards those who appreciate Florida’s quieter, wilder side.

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• Coheelee Creek Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Georgia