Many people consider Florida to be a flat state, but the state actually has multiple waterfalls. Here is a sampling
Camp Branch Conservation Area, White Springs.
The Disappearing Creek produces rapids between cypress knees after heavy rain. The water flows downhill through a ravine. The water eventually disappears into a large sinkhole. The creek emerges in the Suwanee River.
Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park, Gainesville.
At this geological state park, visitors notice a dramatic temperature change as they climb 132 steps down into a sinkhole. Waterfalls and creeks feed into the collapsed sinkhole that is 120 feet deep.
The greenery and wildlife in the sinkhole give the appearance of a small rainforest, and the ecosystem is considered rare.
Visitors have been recorded at this National Natural Landmark since the 1880s. Researchers reportedly have found fossil shark teeth and the fossilized remains of extinct land animals in the sinkhole. The Park has interactive displays that explore the unique nature of the area.
Falling Creek Falls, Lake City.
Falling Creek Falls is a 10-foot waterfall over limestone. The water flowing out of the waterfall goes under Falling Creek Road and through the ravine before going underground. The area also has a boardwalk trail to the Falls and a historic building.
Falling Waters State Park, Chipley.
This state park is known for having the largest waterfall in the state, which measures 74 feet tall. Park staff recommend that you visit after heavy rain for the best experience. The waterfall drops into a cylindrical sinkhole that is 100-feet deep and 20-feet wide. The sinkhole disappears into a hidden cave system. The destination of the water is unknown.
Rainbow Springs, Dunnellon.
Humans created these falls. The waterfalls, as well as the phosphate pits, are left over from the mining industry. The area offers multiple water activities.
Steinhatchee Falls, Steinhatchee.
Although shallow, this waterfall is known as the widest waterfall in the state. Like many waterfalls in Florida, it’s best seen after heavy rains.
The Steinhatchee Falls Loop, which is one-half mile long, provides a view of the Old Bellamy Road just above the falls. The road was a pioneer migrant route in the 1800s and still has wagon ruts. Hikers can also see the wagon path route on the other side of the river.
Sources: floridahikes.com, floridastateparks.org, mysuwanneeriver.com, onlyinyourstate.com and tcpalm.com
