The Department of Environmental Protection’s Florida Park Service has reopened portions of Falling Waters State Park for day use following the impacts of Hurricane Michael. The park, which experienced significant damage from Hurricane Michael – including downed trees and debris, facility, boardwalk, road and trail damage – was partially reopened following three weeks of clean-up and repair.
Visitor safety remains paramount as response efforts continue. Florida State Parks staff continue to work as quickly as possible to finish remaining clean-up and repairs. Amenities and access to certain areas of the parks may be limited until the work is completed.
“Thanks to the hard work of park staff and volunteers, Falling Waters State Park is open for day use,” said Florida State Parks Director Eric Draper. “We hope to reopen all of the state parks impacted by Hurricane Michael as soon as possible.”
Of the 31 state parks impacted by the storm, only seven parks remain closed. Guests can enjoy the beach at St. Andrews State Park, cruise the river at Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park and explore the gardens at Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park.
Falling Waters State Park features Florida’s highest waterfall, which cascades down 73 feet to the 100-foot deep Falling Waters Sink. Now that the park has reopened, visitors can once again observe this amazing natural resource.
Cost for entry is $5 per vehicle and offsite parking will be available at RiverTown Community Church on State Park Rd. Shuttle service will be available to bring guests to the festival grounds.
Falling Waters State Park is located three miles south of Chipley, off State Road 77A. ::MAP::