Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park
Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park attracts divers from all over with the allure of exploring one of the largest underwater cave systems in the US. This beautiful natural area also contains 2 large springs and 6 sinkholes and is located near Live Oak, just 70 miles north of Gainesville, Florida. The park was named in honor of the renowned diver, cinematographer and photographer Wes Skiles. Visitors to this Florida state park enjoy cave diving, swimming in the refreshing springs, picnicking, bird watching and tracing the pathway of the caves from the interpretive nature trail. 
Activities
Bring your scuba equipment and proof of certification and explore the underwater passages beneath the park. Then take a walk along the nature trail and learn more about what lies below through photographs and maps. Don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch and a few snacks. The park’s two picnic areas are equipped with tables and grills for your comfort and relaxation. Here are some of the activities that you can do during your visit to Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park:
Scuba Diving at Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park
The park’s underwater cave system, one of the largest in the US, attracts many visitors and cave divers each year. Who wouldn’t want a chance to explore 33,000 feet of underwater passages? This immense cave system contains 3 main entrances, a fully submerged passage 20 feet below ground, a sinkhole and a karst window where light streams in from the surface. For those who plan to dive, strict rules and instructions must be adhered, such as being able to provide a scuba diving certification. 
Swimming at Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park
Take a refreshing dip in either Orange Grove Sink or Peacock Springs during your visit to Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park. Snorkeling is also allowed. Both swimming and snorkeling conditions depend on water levels, which may fluctuate seasonally. Be aware that there are not any lifeguards present at either swimming area.
Hiking at Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park
Discover what lies beneath your feet, inside one of the longest underwater caves in the country! Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park offers guests a unique one mile interpretive trail that follows the caves and caverns along Peacock Springs and gives visitors a glimpse into what lies beneath them. This shady nature trail flows through the natural uplands, and past sinks and springs. And provides a closer look at the Floridan Aquifer, located at Olsen Sink. 
Birding at Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park
As you walk along the interpretive trail and learn more about the cave and the aquifer you may also notice Bald Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks, Great Blue Herons, Barred Owls, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, woodpeckers, warblers, vireos, wood ducks, thrashers, wrens, swallows, and egrets.
Nature and Wildlife at Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park
You may see deer, raccoons, beavers, river otters, alligators, snakes, lizards, turtles and bobcats in addition to many bird species during your visit to Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park. Keep an eye open for wildflowers, you may get a glimpse of a Giant Swallowtail, Texan Crescent or Zebra Longwing butterfly.
Pets at Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park
Pets are allowed at Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park as long as they are well-behaved and kept on a hand held leash no longer than 6 feet. Pets are not allowed in the springs.
Camping Near Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park
Swim, scuba dive, picnic and have a fun and relaxing day inside Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park. Then drive over to nearby Suwannee River State Park (3631 201st Path in Live Oak) and spend the night under the shady oaks and along the Suwannee River. The campground features 30 sites and 2 group camping areas. Each has electricity, water, a picnic table, fire ring and access to nearby restrooms and showers. This park also offers spacious riverside cabins with 2 bedrooms, fully equipped kitchenettes, heat and A/C, and screened-in porches. Pets are not allowed and there is a 2 night minimum stay for cabin reservations. Plan a day or two to explore Suwannee State Park’s 1,800 acres of streams, rivers, springs, native forest area and limestone outcropping. Plants, wildflowers and wildlife abound inside this serene area that’s ideal for hiking, kayaking, fishing and bird watching.
Park Location
Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park 180th St Live Oak, FL 32060 Phone: 386.776.2194 Park Website
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Wes Skiles Peacock Springs 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
Wes Skiles Peacock Springs 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.
