Florida's Hidden Canyoneering Adventures
Florida may not come to mind when you think of canyoneering, but the state boasts hidden landscapes perfect for adventure. From limestone sinkholes to rugged riverbanks, here’s a look at Florida’s top canyoneering spots, each paired with nearby accommodations and restaurants to complete your trip. Explore the unseen side of the Sunshine State with this guide.
Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park, Gainesville
Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park offers a deep, ancient sinkhole descending 120 feet into Florida’s limestone bedrock. Often called a “mini-canyon,” the park features fossils, lush ferns, and waterfalls. Visitors can descend a wooden stairway into the sinkhole, where the cooler air and unique rock formations offer an unforgettable experience. For lodging, Sweetwater Branch Inn offers cozy Victorian-style rooms nearby. After your adventure, enjoy a meal at The Top Gainesville, a beloved spot for eclectic dishes in downtown Gainesville. For park information, visit the Florida State Parks Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park page.
Falling Waters State Park, Chipley
Falling Waters State Park is home to Florida’s tallest waterfall, dropping 73 feet into a sinkhole and surrounded by scenic hiking trails. The best time to visit is after a good rain, when the waterfall’s flow is at its strongest. Nearby, the Comfort Inn & Suites Chipley offers comfortable lodging. For authentic Mexican flavors, visit Javier’s Mexican Grill in Chipley. More details about the park can be found on the Florida State Parks Falling Waters page.
Torreya State Park, Bristol
Known for its rare Torreya trees and steep, hilly terrain, Torreya State Park offers canyoneers a rugged experience with scenic views over the Apalachicola River. Trails like the Torreya Challenge Trail test visitors with steep ravines and root-covered paths. Stay nearby at the Apalachicola River Inn, offering scenic riverside views, and stop for seafood at The Franklin Café. For park details, check out the Torreya State Park page.
Silver Glen Springs, Ocala National Forest
Located within Ocala National Forest, Silver Glen Springs combines crystal-clear spring water with rugged limestone outcroppings, creating a refreshing canyoneering spot. Stay nearby at Salt Springs Resort, offering cabins and RV spots, and enjoy a hearty breakfast at Square Meal Café. For more on the park, visit US Forest Service - Silver Glen Springs.
Big Shoals State Park, White Springs
Big Shoals State Park, home to Florida’s only whitewater rapids, offers a challenging canyoneering experience along the Suwannee River. The limestone cliffs and riverbanks are especially beautiful during the rainy season, when the river’s flow intensifies. Accommodations are available at Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park Cabins, and a meal at Fat Belly’s Grill & Bar is perfect for refueling. More details are on the Florida State Parks Big Shoals page.
Apalachicola Bluffs and Ravines Preserve, Bristol
This preserve, managed by The Nature Conservancy, offers deep ravines and cliffs along the Apalachicola River. Stay nearby at Torreya State Park Campground, or try the Apalachicola Seafood Grill for fresh local seafood. For more about the preserve, visit The Nature Conservancy - Apalachicola Bluffs.
Ichetucknee Springs State Park, Fort White
Ichetucknee Springs State Park offers a combination of canyoneering and water-based adventure, with limestone cliffs, crystal-clear springs, and shaded trails along the Ichetucknee River. Stay at High Springs Country Inn and enjoy a meal at The Great Outdoors Restaurant. Visit Florida State Parks Ichetucknee Springs page to plan your trip.
Suwannee River State Park, Live Oak
Suwannee River State Park’s limestone cliffs and riverbanks create natural “mini-canyons” perfect for exploration. Nearby, Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort offers various accommodations, and Dixie Grill & Steer Room is a great local dining option. More information is available on the Suwannee River State Park page.
Ravine Gardens State Park, Palatka
Ravine Gardens State Park in Palatka offers steep ravines, footbridges, and scenic gardens. For nearby lodging, try the Hampton Inn Palatka, and for a bite to eat, visit Angel’s Dining Car, Florida’s oldest diner. See the Ravine Gardens State Park page for details.
Blowing Rocks Preserve, Jupiter Island
Blowing Rocks Preserve offers eroded limestone cliffs along Jupiter Island’s Atlantic shoreline, perfect for light canyoneering and scrambling. Stay nearby at Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa and enjoy seafood at Little Moir’s Food Shack. For more, visit The Nature Conservancy - Blowing Rocks Preserve.
From rugged trails to limestone cliffs, Florida’s hidden landscapes invite canyoneers to explore the state's unexpected beauty. Each site offers unique adventures and nearby amenities to make your trip truly unforgettable.