As Florida state parks go, Ochlockonee River State Park is not the biggest. However, its 540-acres are packed with some of the most incredible natural beauty in the whole of the Panhandle.
Characterized by majestic longleaf pines and live oaks that preside over sandy flats, as well as thriving palmettos that live on the fringes of the wetlands, the park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Best explored through its various hiking trails, the park also features the impressive river from which it takes its name. This is an excellent destination for boating, swimming and fishing, as well as being a lovely spot for a picnic.
One of the best things about visiting Ochlockonee River State Park is that it is flanked by several other much bigger state parks, preserves and forests. This includes Bald Point State Park, Apalachicola National Forest and St Marks National Wildlife Refuge. Which means you can really spend some quality time exploring the region overall.
If you do, the park has a very good campground with 25 water and electric hookup RV sites for you to stay at.
Activities
Visitors to the park can enjoy its exquisite scenery and tranquil surroundings in a variety of ways.
Outlined below is an outline of some of the main things you can see and do while you are there.
Paddling at Ochlockonee River State Park
Paddling is a very popular activity on the river, which many people choose to cruise along in their kayak, SUP or canoes.
Taking the form of a twisting network of tributaries, it takes you through the park’s various ecosystems.
Within easy walking distance of the campground, you will find a boat launch that gives you easy access to the water.
If you do not have any of these watercraft, you can rent them out at the park.
Swimming at Ochlockonee River State Park
For those who want to swim, there is a specifically designated zone in the river in which you can do so.
This makes a terrific spot to cool off when the heat of the Florida sun gets a bit too intense.
As the area is quite small, those who want to go for a more expansive swim should head to nearby Bald Point State Park. There you will find a long stretch of golden beach right that sits adjacent to Apalachee Bay.
Fishing at Ochlockonee River State Park
If you are into fishing you should get excited by the opportunities the park’s various waterways provide you with.
Throughout them, crappie, bluegill, catfish, sunfish, bream and largemouth bass can all be caught from several accessible fishing spots.
To do so you will have to abide by the state’s rules and regulations. You might also need a valid Florida fishing license too.
Hiking at Ochlockonee River State Park
If you want to explore the park on foot, there are a couple of miles of trails you can tackle.
While both the Pinewoods Flats Nature trail and Ochlockonee River Nature Trail are relatively short in length, they do showcase some of the park’s best and most remote features.
When attempting them it is worth taking plenty of water with you and putting on a hat, mozzie spray and lots of sunscreen. Be sure to take your phone with you too, in case of an emergency, and bring along your camera as well, to take photos along the way.
Nature & Wildlife
Given that the park is made up of pine forests, marshes, coastal habitats and wetlands, it is home to a diverse range of wildlife species.
Throughout your time in the park keep a look out for American alligators, gopher tortoises, bald eagles, ospreys, and snakes.
While in and around the longleaf pines you might also get to see red-cockaded woodpeckers. As it is one of the few places left in Florida that provides them with refuge, these birds nest on the trunks of older trees.
The pine forests also accommodate the endangered frosted flatwoods salamander, which is a rare sight to see.
If you do see any of these animals, just remember you are in their home. So be respectful to them.
Pets at Ochlockonee River State Park
Dogs are allowed to join you at Ochlockonee River State Park Campground. However, they must be restrained at all times on a leash that does not exceed 6 feet in length.
They can also not be left unattended for more than 30 minutes and are not permitted within certain parts of the park.
To find out more about their pet policy it is worth contacting the park’s main office.
Camping at Ochlockonee River State Park
Enjoying a picturesque location on the banks of the Ochlockonee River, the park’s campground is a great base for those who want to explore its many delights.
Nicely shaded by imperious live oaks and stately pine trees, it features 25 sites overall that can accommodate RVs and trailers. It also has two tent-only sites as well.
Each of its RV/trailer sites come with hookups for 30- and 50-amp electricity and water hookups. While the tent sites only come with electricity. However, there are several freshwater spigots located around the campground.
All of them come with their own picnic tables and fire rings. There is also a dump station available for sanitation too. Other amenities at the park include restrooms that come with hot showers and flush toilets.
Reservations, by phone or online, can be made up to 11 months in advance. As the park is very popular you are recommended to make a booking prior to your visit.
Park Location
Ochlockonee River State Park
429 State Park Road, Sopchoppy Hwy
Sopchoppy, FL 32358
Phone: 850.962.2771
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Ochlockonee River State Park:
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