Think Florida is all beaches and palm trees?
Think again.
This waterfalls road trip in Florida will totally flip your idea of the Sunshine State.
We’re talking hidden waterfalls in forests, trickling cascades inside giant sinkholes, and peaceful garden falls that look like they belong in a movie.
Some are natural, some are man-made, but every single one is 100% worth the drive.
You’ll walk boardwalk trails under shady trees, snap pics of water pouring into deep rocky pits, and maybe even spot a manatee or two.
(My favorite is number 7 on the list, but what will yours be?)
1. Falling Waters State Park
Falling Waters State Park is in Chipley, Florida, and it’s home to the tallest waterfall in the state at 73 feet tall!
The water drops straight into a massive sinkhole, which looks like a giant natural drain and is seriously cool to see up close.
There’s a short and shady trail with boardwalks that takes you right to the waterfall, plus picnic spots and a small lake for swimming.
Fun fact: the park also has sinkholes all over the place, and some of them were used as hideouts during the Seminole Wars!
2. Steinhatchee Falls
Next up is Steinhatchee Falls, tucked away in the woods just outside the tiny town of Steinhatchee on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
This one’s not super tall (it drops about 3 to 5 feet), but it stretches way across the Steinhatchee River, creating a wide, rippling curtain of water that’s perfect for wading or snapping photos.
You can drive right up to the falls, then wander the 3.3-mile Steinhatchee Trail through oak and pine trees or pack a lunch for the picnic area nearby.
It’s also a local hotspot for kayaking, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot manatees along the Steinhatchee River!
3. Falling Creek Falls
Next up is Falling Creek Falls, less than 10 minutes from Lake City.
This waterfall drops about 10-12 feet over a dark limestone ledge and flows through a lush forest that feels like a hidden gem only locals know about.
There’s an easy 0.6-mile boardwalk and trail combo that takes you through the woods and right to the viewing platform, which is super quick and totally worth it.
The short boardwalk offers easy access to the scenic view, while a footpath winds upstream through the woods where the region’s first settlement once stood.
4. Bulls Bay Preserve
Then there’s Bulls Bay Preserve in Jacksonville, where you’ll find another hidden little waterfall.
It’s more of a trickling fall than a roaring drop, but the peaceful forest setting and winding trails make it feel like your own private escape.
You’ll find the waterfall along the 1.5-mile loop trail, surrounded by swamps, hardwoods, and tons of chirping birds.
It’s a great stop if you’re into quiet nature walks and low-key exploring without the crowds.
5. Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park
Now get ready for something totally different at Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park in Gainesville.
Here, you’ll climb down 132 steps into a giant 120-foot-deep sinkhole with waterfalls trickling down the sides.
The nature trail usually loops around the sinkhole, giving you great views of mini waterfalls, limestone walls, and thick tropical greenery you might not expect in North Florida.
Please note that at the time of writing, the nature trail is currently open as an out-and-back trail (not a loop), due to a bridge closure.
6. Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens
After that wild sinkhole adventure, Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens in Williston feels like stepping into a dreamy secret garden.
This place started as a limestone quarry, but now it’s packed with waterfalls, koi ponds, and stone paths winding through flower-filled terraces.
There are numerous waterfalls here, including some cascading right into bright blue pools (it’s basically a waterfall wonderland).
You can wander for hours spotting turtles and tropical plants around every corner.
7. Rainbow Springs State Park
Next up is Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon, where the waterfalls are totally man-made, but still absolutely stunning.
They were built back in the 1930s when this spot was a private attraction, and now they’re tucked into a jungle of palms, azaleas, and mossy oaks.
The paved walking paths make it super easy to explore, and the spring-fed swimming area is crystal clear and a refreshing 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.
Rent a kayak or canoe, or just chill by the falls, because this spot is all about laid-back, old-school Florida charm.
8. Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens
Wrap up your waterfall road trip with a totally Zen stop at the Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach.
This peaceful spot has several small waterfalls tucked into its six stunning gardens, each designed to reflect a different era of Japanese landscaping.
You’ll stroll past bamboo groves, koi ponds, rock gardens, and trickling falls that feel like something straight out of a postcard.
It’s the perfect place to slow down, sip some green tea from the café, and take in the peaceful vibes before heading home.
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