Falling Creek Park: Columbia County Florida

OK I passed this 'brown sign' several times and was always curious about the destination park.  Yes, you know 'brown sign', designated public park sign. Finally, I dedicated time to visit the park, Falling Creek Falls Park.


The falls at the time of my visit,
It had been some time since a good rain



There had been a few rains this fall but this isn't normally the wet season so the water levels were lower.  However, during normal water levels the creek roars over a 10-foot waterfall and flows under Falling Creek Road through a deep ravine before going underground. http://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?NID=160

An upper tributary that barely moves
it has been dry lately

This area is under joint management between the Suwannee River Water Management District and Columbia County and located on County Road 131 just north of the 441/I10 interchange.   Falling Creek Falls was opened October 2001 after the property was purchased from the Parker & Hogan Families. The county's goal is to protect and preserve the Falls for present and future generations.  Water management is concerned with protecting our precious water supply for Florida's rapidly expanding population.




Falling Creek as it 'falls' to the lower section

Falling Creek Falls was the site of the first settlement in this area and an old store remains on the park property.  According to the informational sign, Falling Creek Falls was settled in the early 1800s by Crackers heading south from neighboring states.  The community boasted a mill, post office, general store, several homes, and a few plantations.  Columbia County's population was about 4000 of which slightly more that half were slaves who worked the plantations.  This might help explain the current demographics with the area.

 

Last standing farm structure
Probably the farm store

 There is a loop trail and a short boardwalk trail.  The boardwalk offers easy access to the falls area providing handicapped and wet weather access.  The falls are impressive, for Florida, an unexpected delight.  However, paddling the Suwanee River where you may find weeping banks has taught me to delight in the unexpected.

A beautiful 3/4 mile trail
winding through the property

The dirt trail is a delightful walk through the flatwoods, pine plantation, and scrub.  This is a short but peaceful stroll where you have time to appreciate the woods and concentrate on nature.

Yes it is Florida with palmetto scrub

Along the trail you may encounter deer, squirrel, toads, hawks, song birds, and gopher tortiose.  Woodpeckers, deer, squirrel, doves, and a hawk greeted us on this adventure. So next time you are in the area plan on spending a little time exploring this treasure.

And gopher holes