OCHLOCKONEE RIVER STATE PARK
This jewel of a park is a great place to get away for a weekend or a weeklong vacation. Picnic facilities and a swimming area are located near the scenic point where the Ochlockonee and Dead rivers intersect. Ochlockonee, which means "yellow waters," is a mix of brackish, tidal surge, and fresh water. Pristine and deep, the river empties into the Gulf of Mexico. Trails allow visitors to explore the park and see the diverse wildlife, including the red-cockaded woodpecker, and natural communities such as pine flatwoods and oak thickets. A boat ramp provides easy access to the river. Both freshwater and saltwater fish inhabit the waters around the park, including largemouth bass, bream, catfish and speckled perch. For overnight visitors, there are full-facility campsites with access to restrooms and showers. Youth group camping is also available.
The park was established in 1970. It spans over 392 acres and is known for its diverse ecosystem. The area offers various recreational activities such as camping, fishing, boating and wildlife viewing.
The park's name originates from a Native American word meaning "yellow waters". This refers to the Ochlockonee River that runs through it.
In addition to natural beauty, this site also has historical significance with evidence of early human habitation dating back thousands of years.
It serves as an important habitat for endangered species like red-cockaded woodpecker and gopher tortoise.
Over time improvements have been made including picnic areas development along river banks enhancing visitor experience significantly since inception.
Annual Entrance Passes can be purchased at all park ranger stations and museums. If you require immediate use of your pass, this is the best option. Passes can be purchased during regular business hours 365 days a year. Please call the park in advance to ensure availability. Those who are eligible for discounted or free passes may use this method to receive their pass. Annual Entrance Passes may be purchased online by visiting the
FLORIDA STATE PARKS ANNUALENTRANCE PASSES web page.
Day-UseFishingyes
Hiking Trailyes
Swimming Beachyes
Bike Trailsyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingWater/Electric Sitesyes
WinterActivitiesyes
This 392-acre park has 30 campsites with electric and water hookups available for reservation through Reserve America.
BBs / Inns
Our historic inn is located in historic Saint Marks, one of the oldest settlements in North America. First settled in 1527, Saint Marks is a historic little city at the confluence of the Wakulla and St. Marks Rivers. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Saint Marks National Wildlife Refuge, it is located just 20 miles south of Tallahassee.
19.5 miles from park*
1. Ochlockonee River State Park offers a designated swimming area near the picnic pavilion.
2. Swimming is allowed in both fresh and brackish waters within park boundaries.
3. Lifeguards are not provided, so visitors swim at their own risk.
4. The river's sandy bottom makes it suitable for swimmers of all ages to enjoy safely.
5. Canoeing or kayaking can also be combined with swimming activities on the river.
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. There is an accessible boat ramp where guests can launch their own vessels, including kayaks and canoes. The river provides opportunities to explore the diverse ecosystems in both saltwater and freshwater environments. Fishing boats are also common due to abundant fish species like redfish, trout or sheepshead available in these waters.
The park is considered an excellent location for both canoeing and fishing. Both fresh and saltwater species may be caught, including largemouth bass, bream, catfish and speckled perch in the fresh waters. Redfish and speckled trout are common in the brackish water. A Florida freshwater fishing license is required for all persons 16 years of age or older. A saltwater fishing license is required for the taking of saltwater species.