Florida’s O’Leno State Park–A Legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps

One of Florida’s first state parks, O’Leno State Park was first developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. The park is located along the banks of the scenic Santa Fe River, a tributary of the Suwannee River, and features sinkholes, hardwood hammocks, river swamps and sandhills. As the river courses through the park, it disappears underground and reemerges over three miles away in River Rise Preserve State Park.

This statue commemorates the service of the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.
This statue commemorates the service of the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.

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O’Leno State Park offers visitors the opportunity to unwind in a natural setting. Visitors can enjoy a day of hiking or biking on the park’s shaded trails. The Santa Fe River is a beautiful spot to launch a canoe or try your hand at fishing along its banks. Pavilions are located along the river’s edge, providing a serene backdrop for picnicking and relaxing. The shady, full-facility campground is the perfect place for a relaxing overnight stay. O’Leno State Park is located on U.S. 441, six miles north of High Springs

Take a short hike to the "sink", where the Santa Fe River heads underground towards River Rise
Take a short hike to the “sink”, where the Santa Fe River heads underground towards River Rise

 

Pets and bicycles are welcome on many of the trails at O'Leno State Park
Pets and bicycles are welcome on many of the trails at O’Leno State Park
The Museum/Interpretative display is housed in this original CCC building
The museum/Interpretative display is housed in this original CCC building
The bridge over the Santa Fe River is an example of the original "look" of the park
The bridge over the Santa Fe River is an example of the original “look” of the park

Directions to O’Leno State Park

Northbound — O’Leno is located on US 441, 8 miles north of High Springs.

Southbound — O’Leno is located 8 miles south of I-75 at Exit 414 (Ellisville) on US 441.

 

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