Welcome to Econfina River State Park

Welcome to Econfina River State Park

18 BETTER OFF WET | NOVEMBER 2022

When the B.O.W. Crew arrived to this absolutely beautiful state park, there wasn’t another soul in site. But, that could have to do with the rainy conditions, the fact we were there during the middle of the week, or who knows why. But, selfishly it was very nice having such a beautiful pristine place all to ourselves. It is places like this that give us the motivation to showcase destinations around Florida and elsewhere. There is no shortage of cool locations, for the entire family to play and get outside. We found this particular park just as we were traveling and decided to check it out. But, if you are more of a planner than a “let’s see where we end up” kind of person, there are many resources available to find cool outdoor spots

near you or near the areas you plan to visit or vacation next. If you find yourself in the Northern Gulf Coast area of Florida, be sure to stop by and check out this gorgeous park or stay for a while. Ecofina River State Park is nestled along the northern Gulf Coast, this park protects a mosaic of diverse landscapes. The Econfina River meanders like a dark ribbon through pine flatwoods and oak-palm forests to broad expanses of salt marsh dotted with pine islands. Nature lovers can explore the scenic beauty by foot, off-road bicycling or horseback on 14.8 miles of wooded trails - or drift along the river in a kayak, canoe or boat. Trails lead to a panoramic view of coastal Florida

where lush islands and sand dunes from a bygone era dot the horizon. The Econfina River empties into the Gulf of Mexico 2.2 miles south of the park’s boat ramp. Picnic facilities are near the boat ramp, and the park offers numerous opportunities for wildlife viewing and bird-watching. Native Americans took advantage of the great fishing and hunting that the Econfina River and the Gulf Coast provides. Since then, people continue to enjoy the park’s easy access to the bountiful Gulf of Mexico fish and natural resources. In 1989, the property opened as a state park to forever preserve the natural areas found within this 4,528-acre park. Some of the text for this article is from www.floridastateparks.org

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