FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Nov. 6, 2018

CONTACT: DEP Press Office, 850.245.2112, DEPNews@dep.state.fl.us

Falling Waters State Park Reopens 

~Following significant damage from Hurricane Michael, the park is now open for day use~

Visitors can once again see Florida's highest waterfall at Falling Waters State Park.

CHIPLEY, Fla. – The Department of Environmental Protection's Florida Park Service has reopened portions of Falling Waters State Park for day use following the impacts of Hurricane Michael. The park, which experienced significant damage from Hurricane Michael - including downed trees and debris, facility, boardwalk, road and trail damage - was partially reopened late last week following three weeks of clean-up and repair.

Visitor safety remains paramount as response efforts continue. Florida State Parks staff continue to work as quickly as possible to finish remaining clean-up and repairs. Amenities and access to certain areas of the parks may be limited until the work is completed. 

“Thanks to the hard work of park staff and volunteers, Falling Waters State Park is open for day use," said Florida State Parks Director Eric Draper. "We hope to reopen all of the state parks impacted by Hurricane Michael as soon as possible."

Of the 31 state parks impacted by the storm, only seven parks remain closed. Guests can enjoy the beach at St. Andrews State Park, cruise the river at Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park and explore the gardens at Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park.

Falling Waters State Park features Florida’s highest waterfall, which cascades down 73 feet to the 100-foot deep Falling Waters Sink. Now that the park has reopened, visitors can once again observe this amazing natural resource.

Find a Florida State Park near you and plan your next visit.

About Florida State Parks, Greenways and Trails 

The Florida Park Service is the proud recipient of three National Gold Medals for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, making Florida America’s first three-time Gold Medal winner. The awards were received in 1999, 2005 and 2013 from the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration and the National Recreation and Park Association. 

Florida’s 175 state parks, trails and historic sites inspire residents and visitors with recreation opportunities and scenic beauty that help strengthen families, educate children, expand local economies and foster community pride. With nearly 800,000 acres, 100 miles of beaches and more than 1,500 miles of multi-use trails, residents and visitors should plan to visit soon and often to enjoy Florida’s natural treasures. Download the Florida State Parks Pocket Ranger® mobile app, available on iTunes and Android Market, to plan your trip and enhance your experience. For more information, visit www.FloridaStateParks.org.

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