New trail offerings at Ponce de Leon Springs State Park

March 28, 2018

Explore nature along the new Ponce de Leon Springs State Park trail. Lori Ceier/Walton Outdoors

Ponce de Leon Springs State Park now offers four miles of trail opportunities in their previously undeveloped southern section of the park. In addition to the popular spring area, the park has converted their service roads, which spans approximately four miles. This portion of the park offers scenic views of upland, bottomland, and wetland areas. The trail is moderate terrain and suitable for hiking or biking.

A variety of flora can be spotted along the trail including carnivorous plants in the wetland areas. Lori Ceier/Walton Outdoors

Recently burned in March 2018, new wiregrass and vegetation are reappearing in abundance. Along the wetland areas, a variety of plants can be found such as pitcher plants, sundews, grass pink, and hatpins. On the upland portions, you may see rhododendron, red chokeberry, milkweed, hickory, huckleberry, blazing star, aster, oaks, pines, blueberry, and more. Gopher tortoise, turkey, fox, white-tailed deer, beaver, bobcat, otter, and a variety of native and migratory birds also inhabit the area. Historical elements such as turpentine remnants and an old railroad bridge can also be found.

The 386-acre park straddles Holmes and Walton counties. To access the trail area, go to the main entrance ranger station for more information.

Hours of Operation
8 a.m. to sunset

Driving Directions
Ponce de Leon Springs State Park southern area is located one half mile south of U.S. 90 off SR81 in Ponce de Leon, FL. on L.D. Anderson Rd. ::MAP::

Park Fees
$4.00 per vehicle. Please use the honor box to pay fees. Correct change is required. Limit 8 people per vehicle.
$2.00 Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.

Ponce de Leon Springs State Park
2860 Ponce de Leon Springs Road
Ponce de Leon, Florida 32455
Phone: 850-836-4281
For more information, click here for the park’s website.