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1130 State Park Rd

1130 State Park Rd Overview

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Address 1130 State Park Rd, Chipley, FL 32428, USA

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1130 State Park Rd Location & Map

FloridaWashington CountyChipleyState Park Road

1130 State Park Rd About

For Floridians seeking an authentic outdoor escape, a true hidden gem awaits in the Panhandle: Falling Waters State Park Campground, located at 1130 State Park Rd, Chipley, FL 32428, USA. This isn't just any campground; it's a gateway to one of Florida's most unique natural wonders – its highest waterfall. While our state is celebrated for its beaches and springs, Falling Waters offers a different kind of natural beauty, providing a refreshing change of scenery and a tranquil retreat for campers and nature lovers alike.

Falling Waters State Park is a testament to Florida's diverse landscapes, showcasing lush forests, intriguing geological formations like sinkholes, and, of course, its impressive waterfall. It's a perfect destination for those looking to reconnect with nature, enjoy outdoor activities, and create lasting memories with family and friends. From shaded campsites nestled among pines to serene walking trails and picnic areas, this state park campground provides a comprehensive and enjoyable camping experience right here in our own backyard. Whether you're an experienced RVer or a first-time tent camper, Falling Waters offers something for everyone, making it a compelling choice for your next Florida adventure.

Location and Accessibility

Falling Waters State Park Campground is conveniently located at 1130 State Park Rd, Chipley, FL 32428, USA. This prime location places it just a few miles south of I-10, making it incredibly accessible for travelers across the Florida Panhandle, as well as those coming from Alabama and Georgia. Chipley, a welcoming town in Washington County, provides a quiet, serene backdrop for the park, allowing visitors to escape urban noise and immerse themselves in nature.

The park's proximity to I-10 means easy navigation for all types of vehicles, including large RVs. Despite its peaceful, natural setting, it's not far from essential services in Chipley, ensuring that campers have convenient access to supplies if needed. The address directly leads to the state park, which hosts the campground, simplifying arrival for first-time visitors. This strategic location makes Falling Waters State Park an ideal stopover for cross-state journeys or a peaceful destination for a weekend getaway for local Floridians, offering a natural sanctuary that is both remote enough to feel like an escape and accessible enough to be practical.

Services Offered
  • Full-Facility Campsites: The campground features 24 single-family campsites.
  • Water & Electric Hookups: All campsites are equipped with both water and electric hookups (20/30/50 amp service available), catering to both RV and tent campers.
  • Individual Site Amenities: Each campsite includes a picnic table, a ground grill, and a clothesline for convenience.
  • Clean Restroom Facilities: The park boasts a full-facility bathhouse within the campground with flush toilets and hot showers, consistently praised for cleanliness.
  • Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available for RVers.
  • Visitor Center: Provides information about the park and surrounding areas.
  • Ranger Station: On-site staff to assist campers and manage park operations.
  • Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase from the camp host.
  • Interpretive Programs: Park rangers host educational programs and campfire chats in the amphitheater and campfire circle, often on Saturday evenings, providing insights into the park's natural and historical significance.
  • Reservations System: Campsite reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance through the Florida State Parks reservations website or by phone.
  • Pet-Friendly Policy: Pets are welcome in the campground and on trails, provided they are kept on a 6-foot leash and owners pick up after them.
Features / Highlights
  • Florida's Highest Waterfall: The park's main attraction is Falling Waters Sink, a 100-foot-deep, 20-foot-wide cylindrical pit into which a stream drops 73 feet, creating Florida's highest waterfall – a truly unique geological feature.
  • Beautiful Sinkhole Trails: A boardwalk and nature trails lead visitors through lush evergreen forests and around intriguing fern-covered sinkholes to the waterfall.
  • Shaded Campsites: All campsites are set in a nice upland pine forest, providing ample shade, which is a significant comfort in Florida's climate.
  • High Elevation Camping: Located on one of the highest hills in Florida at 324 feet above sea level, offering a unique "top of the world" feeling for campers.
  • Butterfly Garden: A dedicated garden where visitors can observe beautiful native and migrating butterflies.
  • Swimming Lake and Beach: A two-acre lake with a white sand beach provides a refreshing spot for swimming, complete with picnic tables, benches, and restrooms.
  • Playground Area: A modern playground is available in the picnic area, perfect for keeping children entertained.
  • Picnic Pavilions: Two reservable pavilions with electricity and water are available for gatherings, close to accessible restrooms.
  • Pet-Friendly Trails: Dogs on a leash are allowed on the park's various trails, including the path to the waterfall, making it ideal for pet owners.
  • Peaceful and Quiet Atmosphere: Reviewers consistently praise the campground for being very clean, quiet, and delightful, especially during weekdays, offering a serene escape.
  • Historic Significance: The park contains remnants of Florida's first oil well and an 1860s grist mill, along with artifacts dating back over 5,000 years from ancient Native American civilizations.
Promotions or Special Offers

As a Florida State Park, Falling Waters operates under a standardized fee structure, which typically includes an entrance fee for the park and a nightly rate for campsites. While individual "promotions" in the commercial sense are not common for state parks, the value offered is consistently high due to the well-maintained facilities and natural attractions.

However, visitors can benefit from a few aspects that could be considered "offers":

  • Affordable Nightly Rates: The campsite fees are generally very reasonable, making camping an economical vacation option. For example, recent reviews indicate rates around $18-$20 per night for a full-facility site.
  • Florida State Parks Annual Entrance Pass: Frequent visitors to Florida State Parks can purchase an annual entrance pass, which provides unlimited entry to all Florida State Parks for a year, offering significant savings over individual daily entrance fees if you plan multiple visits across the state.
  • Interpretive Programs: The ranger-led interpretive programs and campfire talks offered, often on Saturday evenings, are free for registered campers, adding educational and entertaining value to your stay.
  • Group Camping Options: A primitive group camp near Turtle Lake can accommodate up to 60 people, providing a cost-effective solution for larger gatherings. Reservations for group camping require a direct call to the park.

To confirm current rates, make reservations, or inquire about any specific seasonal programs, it is best to visit the official Florida State Parks reservations website or call the park directly. This ensures you have the most up-to-date information for planning your visit.

Contact Information

For inquiries, reservations, or more information about Falling Waters State Park Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: 1130 State Park Rd, Chipley, FL 32428, USA

Phone: (850) 638-6130 (Park Office)

For Reservations: 1-800-326-3521 (Florida State Parks Central Reservation System) or visit the Florida State Parks reservations website.

Conclusion: Why Falling Waters State Park Campground is Suitable for Locals

For Floridians, Falling Waters State Park Campground offers an exceptional blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and peaceful relaxation, making it a highly suitable destination for a local getaway. In a state renowned for its coastal attractions, this park provides a refreshing inland experience, showcasing the diverse ecological wonders of North Florida. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to escape the typical beach crowds and immerse themselves in a different side of the Sunshine State.

The highlight, of course, is Florida's highest waterfall. This unique geological feature alone makes the trip worthwhile, offering a stunning visual and a memorable hiking experience that sets it apart from other state parks. Beyond the waterfall, the extensive network of shaded trails through dense forests and around fascinating sinkholes provides ample opportunities for hiking, birding, and simply enjoying the serenity of nature. For families, the lake with its white sand beach offers a safe and enjoyable swimming area, complemented by playgrounds and picnic facilities, ensuring entertainment for all ages.

Furthermore, the campground itself is meticulously maintained, as consistently praised by visitors for its cleanliness, spacious sites, and the availability of full hookups. This means a comfortable and hassle-free camping experience, whether you're in an RV or a tent. The presence of friendly and informative park rangers and camp hosts, who often conduct interpretive programs, adds an educational and engaging dimension to your stay. For locals, Falling Waters State Park Campground represents an accessible, affordable, and profoundly rewarding opportunity to connect with Florida's natural heritage, create cherished family memories, and enjoy a peaceful retreat without traveling far from home. It's a testament to the fact that some of Florida's most remarkable treasures are found just a short drive away, waiting to be discovered or revisited.

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