Activities
A visit to this unique Florida state park offers guests a chance to get a glimpse of the past. By touring the historic Orman House and gardens visitors discover what life might have been like here during the early 19th century. Picnic areas with tables and grills are provided inside the garden area. And walkways throughout the gardens and the park grounds offer guests not only a chance to stretch their legs but also to see the surrounding flora and fauna of St. George’s Island. The park features special events throughout the year such as living history presentations, concerts, nature studies and art shows. Check the park’s event page on their website. Here are some of the activities that you can do during your visit to Orman House Historic State Park:
The Mansion at Orman House Historic State Park
Discover the majestic 1838 Orman House during your visit to Orman House Historic State Park. This two-story Greek Revival mansion actually only contains 4 rooms: a parlor, dining room and two bedrooms. But these 4 large rooms feature stunning heart pine floorboards, wooden mantels and molded cornices and highlight the period when the house was originally built. Orman House is open for guided tours Thursdays through Saturdays, 9am to 5pm.
The Gardens at Orman House Historic State Park
After touring The Orman House take a peaceful stroll through Chapman Botanical Garden, open daily from 8am until sunset. These gorgeous gardens were named after Dr. Alvan Chapman, prominent botanist and author of “Flora of the Southern United States”. These picturesque gardens include a butterfly garden, a gazebo, benches, walkway that loop through, and an elevated boardwalk over a marsh. The Three Soldiers Detail, located nearby, is a bronze replica statue of the one at the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C.
Birding at Orman House Historic State Park
Orman House Historic State Park is a great spot for bird lovers, about 300 bird species have been sighted along this barrier island and inside neighboring St. George Island State Park. Both native and migrating birds may be seen here, such as Bald eagles, Peregrine Falcons, Brown Pelicans, gulls, osprey, egrets, terns, herons, Black skimmers, sandpipers, plovers, American Oystercatchers, warblers and buntings.
Nature and Wildlife at Orman House Historic State Park
While walking through the grounds and gardens at Orman House Historic State Park guests will have the opportunity to see birds, butterflies, snakes, frogs and lizards. Inside the surrounding area raccoons, deer, squirrels, tortoises, coyotes and many sea creatures may also be spotted.
Pets at Orman House Historic State Park
Pets are allowed at Orman House Historic State Park, but only in designated areas. Pets must be supervised and remain on a hand held leash no longer than 6 feet.
Camping Near Orman House Historic State Park
Tour the historic house and gardens inside Orman House Historic State Park and then head over to nearby St. George Island State Park to spend the night. St. George Island State Park features modern campsites, primitive campsites and a group camping area inside a 1,962 acre barrier island paradise. Nestled among the pine flatwoods, 60 campsites have water and electric hookups and are located near restrooms, hot showers, a playground and a nature trail. The primitive campsites are only accessible by foot, along the Gap Point Trail. There are no restrooms, showers or drinking water near these sites. The group camping area can accommodate organized groups of up to 25 people and has picnic tables, a campfire circle, restrooms and cold water showers. Hammocks are allowed at all campsites throughout the park.
Activities Near Orman House Historic State Park
Nearby St. George Island State Park features 9 miles of pristine beaches along the Gulf. Amenities include a beach, kayak and canoe rentals, star gazing opportunities, fishing for flounder, redfish and sea trout, and trails that spread throughout pine forest and along the coastal scrub.
Park Location
Orman House Historic State Park 177 5th St Apalachicola, FL 32320 Phone: 850.653.1209 Website
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Orman House Historic State Park:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to enter a Florida state park?
Most Florida state parks charge $4 to $6 per vehicle (up to 8 occupants). An individual annual pass costs $60, and a family annual pass costs $120, covering unlimited visits to all state parks.
Can I swim with manatees at Florida state parks?
While you cannot swim with manatees (they are protected), several spring parks like Blue Spring State Park offer excellent viewing from boardwalks. Manatees gather in springs from November through March when river temperatures drop.
Are alligators dangerous in Florida state parks?
Alligators are present in virtually all freshwater bodies in Florida. They are generally not aggressive toward humans, but you should never approach, feed, or harass them. Keep children and pets at a safe distance from water edges.
What is the best time to visit Florida state parks?
Winter and spring (November through April) offer the best conditions: pleasant temperatures, low humidity, fewer mosquitoes, and peak manatee viewing. Summer brings extreme heat, humidity, and daily thunderstorms.
Explore More Florida State Parks
Orman House Historic State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Florida. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Florida guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
More parks nearby: John Gorrie Museum State Park is a short drive away, while St George Island State Park lies within about an hour’s drive.
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for Florida state parks online at reserve.floridastateparks.org.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Orman House Historic State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Domestic pets are welcome in many Florida State Parks — on hiking trails, in picnic areas and campgrounds — but only in designated areas.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leashes may not exceed 6 feet; pets must be under physical control at all times.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not permitted on beaches, boardwalks or playgrounds, or in bathing areas — swimming pets can be viewed as prey by alligators.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are not allowed in any state park buildings, cabins or cabin areas.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Pets prohibited at several parks including Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs (free kennels at the entrance), Weeki Wachee Springs and Egmont Key; in campgrounds pets must be confined in the camping unit 11 p.m.-7 a.m.
Are dogs allowed at Orman House Historic State Park?
Domestic pets are welcome in many Florida State Parks — on hiking trails, in picnic areas and campgrounds — but only in designated areas. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via floridastateparks.org. More: Florida state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Orman House Historic State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
Top Tours & Activities Near Panama City Beach
from $350
from $750
from $54