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Florida
North Central Region
Ochlockonee River State Park
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Manatee mother and her young show scars from boat propellers
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OCHLOCKONEE RIVER STATE PARK
OCHLOCKONEE RIVER STATE PARK
P.O. Box 5
Sopchoppy, Florida   32358

Phone: 850-962-2771
Reservations: 850-962-2771
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.
History of the Area
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.

Passes
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.
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
Day-UseFishingyes
 Hiking Trailyes
 Swimming Beachyes
 Bike Trailsyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingWater/Electric Sitesyes
WinterActivitiesyes
Camping
This 392-acre park has 30 campsites with electric and water hookups available for reservation through Reserve America.
Nearby Accommodations
businesss listing main photo
Sweet Magnolia Inn - Saint Marks, FL
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*
Swimming
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.


Boating
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.

Fishing
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.



Picnicking
Ochlockonee River State Park offers picnic areas with tables and grills, perfect for family outings. Pavilions are also available to rent.
Bicycling
Biking enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of trails, but should be aware that some paths may have sandy sections.

The park offers several miles of multi-use tracks suitable for cyclists; caution is advised due to wildlife encounters.

Helmets are recommended as the terrain varies from flat surfaces to more challenging hilly areas.

Cyclists must stay on designated bike routes and respect all posted signs regarding trail usage rules and restrictions.

Remember, biking after dark isn't allowed in order to protect local fauna - plan your ride accordingly.

Ensure you carry plenty water with you during hot weather rides since there aren't many refill stations available along the way.

Keep an eye out for pedestrians sharing these pathways - courteous cycling ensures everyone's safety!

Lastly, always check current conditions before setting off as certain times or events might lead to temporary closures.
Trails
Nature trails are located along the river and throughout the pine forest. During summer months, ranger-guided walks and campfire programs are provided.
Birding
The park offers a rich birding experience with over 100 species, including red-cockaded woodpecker and bald eagles. Birdwatchers can explore various habitats like pine flatwoods and hardwood forests. The park's riverine system attracts diverse waterfowl too.


Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
November 21 Mr. Charles, your Park Host by Lee Anne and Cory Wonsey
park review stars; one to five Our stay the past few days certainly was relaxing. Mr. Charles welcomed us with a warm heart and a nice smile to,begin our day. Due to the after-hours phone remaining unanswered, my husband had to spend the night in the truck at the closed gate. Moral of this is make sure you pack the blankets.
April 23 A bit of Heaven on Earth! by Connie and Joe Parker
park review stars; one to five My husband and I and our daughter and Grands got lost on the Sopchoppy River and the Park Ranger and his son came and recued us!! There are still saints on Earth. We thank them so much. May God BLess them from our hearts to yours!
March 23 White Deer and White Squarrells by Trekinnon
park review stars; one to five We went to this campsite 4 years ago and saw the white squirrels - these are not albino squirrels and saw a picture of the white deer - again not albino deer. The park is beautiful and very quiet
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Panacea RV Park
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Ho-Hum RV Park
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Nearby Hotels
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Pets
Pets must be confined, leashed (not to exceed six feet in length) or otherwise under the physical control of a person at all times. Tethered pets must not be left unattended for more than 30 minutes. Quiet hours must be observed from 11:00 p.m. - 8:00 a.m. Pet owners must pick up after their pets and properly dispose of all pet droppings in trash receptacles. Florida law requires that pets be vaccinated against rabies. Any pet that is noisy, dangerous, intimidating or destructive will not be allowed to remain in the park. Non-furbearing pets, such as reptiles, birds, or fish must be confined or under the physical control of the owner. Some animals may be prohibited on park property. Failure to abide by these rules may result in the camper being asked to board the pet outside the park or to leave the campground.

Directions
Ochlockonee River State Park is located four miles south of Sopchoppy on U.S. 319.

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Florida State Parks

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