Osceola National Forest - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

Big Gum Swamp Wilderness is a protected natural wonder situated in Baker County, Florida. Spanning over 20,000 acres of lush and breathtaking scenery, visitors are offered an adventurous outdoor experience. The area is home to an abundance of native wildlife including alligators, turtles, bald eagles and other birds-of-prey. As part of the Osceola National Forest, Big Gum Swamp Wilderness offers a wide variety of activities such as hiking, canoeing and camping.

Ocean Pond is a small yet stunning destination in Baker County. Located in the western reaches of the county, this picturesque body of water is an oasis of tranquility and wildlife surrounded by pines and palmettos. Activities like fishing, swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding can be enjoyed here in the warm clear waters or around the lush vegetation at its edges. If you're looking for the perfect spot for a peaceful picnic or swim then Ocean Pond is your go-to destination.

Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park is owned by the State of Florida, but the United States Forest Service maintains another 688 acres (2.78 km2) as part of a Special Use Permit.

Falling Creek Falls is one of the most remarkable natural attractions in Baker County, Florida. Located in the Osceola National Forest, it offers breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls and lush foliage, making it a perfect destination for outdoor lovers. The impressive 25-foot waterfalls plunge over two tiers surrounded by rock formations. Visitors can take a swim or wade into its natural pool and admire the stunning scenery at the same time.

Okefenokee Swamp is something to behold. Encompassing over 400,000 acres of land, the swamp has earned a reputation as one of the most pristine and remarkable ecosystems in the United States. Featuring cypress trees, native wildlife and a wide variety of plants, it has been designated by Congress as a National Wildlife Refuge. Fishing and boating are popular activities that many visitors partake in. It is also home to an array of migrating birds each year.

The Santa Fe River is typical of many rivers in karst regions in that it disappears underground and then reappears 5 kilometres (3 miles) downstream.