Florida State Parks has announced the opening of Shoal River Headwaters State Park, located just west of DeFuniak Springs. The new park was introduced during a celebration and guided tour that showcased its landscapes and ecological value. The area includes rolling sandy hills, mesic flatwoods, and floodplain forests along the Shoal River’s tributaries.
“Shoal River Headwaters State Park highlights our commitment to protecting Florida’s natural treasures while providing new ways for visitors to explore, experience and enjoy the outdoors,” said Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Alexis A. Lambert. “Florida’s Park Service is a national leader and with each new addition we continue to raise the standard for conservation and resource-based recreation. Shoal River Headwaters State Park highlights our commitment to protecting Florida’s natural treasures while providing new ways for visitors to explore, experience and enjoy the outdoors.”
The 2,480-acre park is now open for activities such as hiking and wildlife viewing. Florida State Parks will work with the public on long-term plans for recreation and land management. Possible future activities may include camping, biking, and paddling on the Shoal River.
“Shoal River Headwaters is a special place today, and it will only get better as we plan thoughtfully for recreation and conservation,” said Florida State Parks Director Chuck Hatcher. “Our goal is to ensure visitors can enjoy it for decades to come while protecting its remarkable habitats.”
In the last fiscal year, more than 28 million people visited Florida State Parks, contributing an estimated $3.6 billion in economic impact statewide.
“I am so excited that another tract of Walton County’s natural beauty is being preserved in Shoal River Headwaters State Park,” said Florida Representative Shane G. Abbott. “This new state park will ensure that future generations have the same opportunities to enjoy the natural Florida that I did growing up.”
Shoal River Headwaters protects important habitat for rare species, supports aquifer recharge, and helps maintain wetland quality and function. It is located within the Northwest Florida Sentinel Landscape, serving as buffer land supporting military readiness and connecting with other conservation lands.
The property is part of the Upper Shoal River Florida Forever project and was acquired in partnership with Trust for Public Land. Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet approved this acquisition at a previous meeting.
“Today marks an exciting milestone for Florida’s newest state park and the communities who will now have a place to gather, explore and connect with nature,” said Melissa Hill, Senior Project Manager for Trust for Public Land. “Thanks to the extraordinary collaboration with Florida Forever, Atira Conservation, EJK Foundation and the Partnership for Gulf Coast Land Conservation, this remarkable landscape is protected forever — safeguarding water quality, wildlife habitat and abundant outdoor experiences for generations to come.”
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection acts as the state’s main agency responsible for environmental management by overseeing more than 175 state parks as well as trails and historic sites across all regions of Florida. The department manages regulations related to waste management, water quality, air resources, permits environmental projects, advances land conservation efforts statewide, operates from its headquarters in Tallahassee, offers recreational opportunities throughout its managed properties including parks like Shoal River Headwaters State Park.
More information about state parks can be found at FloridaStateParks.org.
