O'Leno State Park
Explore Florida's unique Santa Fe River as it vanishes underground, wander through historic CCC-era structures, and hike lush trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful hikes
O'Leno State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful hikes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Florida's unique Santa Fe River as it vanishes underground, wander through historic CCC-era structures, and hike lush trails.
"A cool place to take a hike where the Santa Fe River sinks underground before reappearing miles away."
Check Bridge Status First
The suspension bridge is a key attraction but often closed. Call ahead or check online! :ticket:
Bug Spray is Essential
Ticks and flies can be abundant. Spray ankles and shoes well before exploring. :bug:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Disappearing River
Santa Fe River
Witness the Santa Fe River sink underground for miles before reappearing elsewhere. A truly unique natural phenomenon!
Historic Suspension Bridge
Park Entrance
An iconic feature of the park, this bridge offers scenic views and a touch of history, though it may be closed for maintenance.
CCC-Era Structures
Throughout the park
Explore historical buildings and structures developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.
Lush Hammock Trails
Various trails
Hike through dense hardwood hammocks, enjoying the lush greenery and natural beauty of the park.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bridge Closure & Trail Conditions
Bug & Tick Alert
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Bridge Status First
The suspension bridge is a key attraction but often closed. Call ahead or check online! :ticket:
Bug Spray is Essential
Ticks and flies can be abundant. Spray ankles and shoes well before exploring. :bug:
Trail Caution Advised
Some river trails are overgrown and can be slippery or have rotten bridges. Hike carefully. :athletic_shoe:
Explore the Mini Museum
Don't miss the small, air-conditioned museum for interesting local history. :museum:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Bridge Status First
The suspension bridge is a key attraction but often closed. Call ahead or check online! :ticket:
Bug Spray is Essential
Ticks and flies can be abundant. Spray ankles and shoes well before exploring. :bug:
Trail Caution Advised
Some river trails are overgrown and can be slippery or have rotten bridges. Hike carefully. :athletic_shoe:
Explore the Mini Museum
Don't miss the small, air-conditioned museum for interesting local history. :museum:
Canoe/Kayak the River
Paddle the Santa Fe River for a different perspective of the park's natural beauty.
Pack Water & Snacks
Limited facilities mean you should bring your own provisions for a day of exploring. :water_wave:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
O'Leno State Park is praised for its unique natural features, like the disappearing Santa Fe River, and its historical CCC-era structures. Visitors appreciate the lush greenery and the opportunity for peaceful hikes and camping. However, some trails can be overgrown and challenging, and insect pests like ticks and flies are a common concern.
"The park is absolutely lush with trees. There's also a suspension bridge right at the beginning, which is supposedly one of the "attractions." You can hike along the trails that border the river. At one point, you reach a section that is the very definition of the word "swamp." The seaweed is so dense that if a rock falls into it, it will cover the impact site almost instantly. At the beginning of the park, you can also swim in the river/swamp, where the water is a bit chilly.
One (and major) downside of the park is that the trail that borders the river hasn't been cleared, so there are a lot of weeds, spider webs, and branches. Furthermore, one of the bridges on this same trail was also somewhat rotten and slippery. All of these factors make the hike dangerous and difficult. Therefore, I would say that if this is your first time hiking in natural parks, be careful when hiking this trail."
L.M.M.B
"Cool place to take a hike. This is where the Santa Fe River sinks down in to the Florida aquifer runs under ground for 3 miles before reappearing in the River Raise Preserve. We pretty much had the whole place to ourselves. Worth checking out if you are a nature lover."
Ryan O'Toole
"Love this state park, stayed in site 31 three years in a row. Would have given 5 stars but the house flies were legion and the ticks were too friendly! Saw deer, birds, squirrels, no gators but they are everywhere I’m sure. Great state park where one can see where the Santa Fe river goes under ground."
Steve Kerney
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
O'Leno State Park is located in High Springs, Florida. You can reach it by car via US-441. The park is well-signed from the main roads.
Public transportation options to O'Leno State Park are very limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle.
From Gainesville, take US-441 North. Turn right onto NW 182nd Avenue, which becomes Oleno Park Road, leading directly to the park entrance.
Yes, ample parking is available throughout the park, including near trailheads, picnic areas, and the main visitor facilities.
Absolutely! O'Leno State Park is a fantastic destination for a day trip, offering hiking, picnicking, and exploring its unique natural features.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a modest entrance fee per vehicle for O'Leno State Park, typical for Florida State Parks. Check the official Florida State Parks website for the most current pricing.
The park is generally open from 8 AM until sunset daily. However, it's always a good idea to verify the exact hours on the Florida State Parks website before your visit.
For day use, advance booking is typically not required. However, if you plan to camp, reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons or weekends.
No, the suspension bridge is frequently closed for maintenance. It's crucial to check the park's official website or call ahead to confirm its status before your visit.
Florida State Parks sometimes offer discounts for seniors, military, or through specific programs. Inquire at the park entrance or check the Florida State Parks website for details.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park offers several trails, including those along the Santa Fe River. Be aware that some river trails can be overgrown and challenging due to weeds and fallen branches. The park also features hardwood hammocks for a more traditional forest hike.
Yes, you can swim in the Santa Fe River at designated areas. The water can be chilly, and the riverbed might have dense seaweed in some spots.
Visitors often spot deer, birds, and squirrels. While alligators are present in Florida waterways, they are not always visible. The park's diverse habitats support a variety of wildlife.
With its diverse habitats, including hardwood hammocks and riverine environments, O'Leno State Park is a good location for birdwatching.
The park boasts historical buildings from the Civilian Conservation Corps era and a small museum detailing local history and wartime rationing.
🎫 🏕️ Camping & Accommodations
Yes, O'Leno State Park provides camping facilities, including sites suitable for tents and RVs. Reservations are highly recommended.
Campsites typically offer water and electric hookups, with access to restrooms and shower facilities. Some sites are located near the river.
While primarily known for camping, check the Florida State Parks website for any available cabin rentals or unique lodging options within or near the park.
Site 31 is mentioned positively by a reviewer, though be aware of potential issues like house flies and ticks. It's best to review the park map and choose a site that suits your preferences.
Campfires are generally permitted in designated fire rings at campsites, subject to park regulations and any fire bans in effect.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique Santa Fe River sinkhole, the historic suspension bridge (if open), lush hammock landscapes, and CCC-era architecture.
Absolutely! The park's diverse ecosystems, from swamps to hardwood forests, offer excellent opportunities for wildlife and landscape photography.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Florida State Parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the park's specific drone policy before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be aware that some trails can be overgrown and may have slippery or rotten bridges, so keeping a close eye on children is essential.
🏕️ Campers
Many campers enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to explore the park's trails and river. Be prepared for potential challenges like abundant house flies and ticks, especially during warmer months.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Be prepared for varying trail conditions; some paths can be overgrown with dense vegetation and may have challenging sections like slippery or rotten bridges.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mystery of the Santa Fe River
Exploring the riverbanks offers a chance to witness this geological marvel firsthand. While the river's underground journey is fascinating, it also means that sections of the river within the park can appear as a swampy area where the water is dense with vegetation.
Be aware that the river's edge can be marshy, and while swimming is possible, the water can be chilly and may contain dense seaweed.
A Legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps
This New Deal agency employed young men to undertake public works projects, and their legacy is evident in the park's historic buildings, bridges, and trails. The CCC's work aimed to conserve natural resources and provide employment during the Great Depression, and their craftsmanship is still appreciated today. Visitors can explore these historical structures, including the iconic suspension bridge (when open) and other buildings that showcase the architectural style and durability of CCC projects.
The presence of these historical elements adds a layer of depth to the natural beauty of O'Leno State Park, allowing visitors to connect with both the natural and human history of the area.
The park's development by the CCC highlights a commitment to preserving natural landscapes for public enjoyment and education. Navigating Trail Conditions and Safety
It's advisable to wear sturdy hiking shoes and be prepared for uneven terrain. Bringing a walking stick can be helpful for stability on less maintained paths.
Beyond trail conditions, be mindful of the abundant insect life. Ticks and flies can be prevalent, so carrying and applying insect repellent, especially to ankles and shoes, is crucial.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit