Located along Florida’s scenic east coast, Bulow Creek State Park stands as a testament to the natural heritage of the Sunshine State. This 5,600-acre conservation jewel offers visitors a glimpse into old Florida, where ancient trees tell stories of centuries past and wildlife thrives in protected habitats. Just a short drive from busy coastal communities, this park provides both locals and tourists with a peaceful escape into one of Florida’s most impressive natural landscapes.
Exploring Florida’s Ancient Forest: Bulow Creek State Park
Bulow Creek State Park protects one of the most significant natural areas on Florida’s east coast—a sprawling 5,600-acre conservation space that includes more than 1,500 acres of submerged lands. The park’s highlight is its extensive southern live oak forest, representing one of the largest remaining stands of these impressive trees in the region. These ancient sentinels, draped in Spanish moss and resurrection fern, create a cathedral-like atmosphere that transports visitors back to old Florida, before development transformed much of the coastline.
Standing in silent majesty at the center of the park is the legendary Fairchild Oak, a living monument estimated to be over 400 years old. This remarkable tree, one of the largest live oaks in the South, has witnessed centuries of Florida history, including the turbulent period of the Second Seminole War when the neighboring Bulow Plantation was destroyed in 1836. With its massive trunk and sprawling canopy creating a natural pavilion, the Fairchild Oak serves as both the park’s centerpiece and a tangible connection to Florida’s past. Visitors often stand in awe beneath its enormous branches, contemplating the many generations of people who have sought shelter in its shade.
Outdoor Adventure Opportunities at Bulow Creek State Park
Nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers will find plenty to explore at Bulow Creek State Park through its network of scenic hiking trails. The signature path is the Bulow Woods Trail, a nearly seven-mile route that winds through diverse ecosystems before connecting to Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park. Along the way, hikers can experience the changing landscape from maritime hammock to cypress swamp while keeping an eye out for the park’s abundant wildlife. Shorter trails offer easier options for casual visitors who still want to experience the park’s natural beauty without committing to a longer hike.
Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout Bulow Creek, where patient observers might spot white-tailed deer moving silently through the underbrush, hear the distinctive call of barred owls, or catch raccoons foraging along the creek banks. For those seeking a more relaxed visit, the park offers picnic facilities, including a shady pavilion available for rental at $40 per day (plus tax) and individual tables situated on the lawn within view of the magnificent Fairchild Oak. Open daily from 8 a.m. until sundown year-round with no entrance fee, this accessible natural retreat offers exceptional value for local residents and visitors alike. For additional information, the park office can be reached at 386-676-4050.
