PEACOCK SPRINGS STATE PARK
This park has two major springs, a spring run, and six sinkholes-all in near pristine condition. One of the longest underwater cave systems in the continental United States, about 28,000 feet of underwater passages have been explored and surveyed by cave divers. Only divers who have proof of their scuba certification are allowed to explore the underwater caverns. Mature forest stands around the springs represent four major natural plant communities. A nature trail leads visitors on a path tracing the twisting tunnels of the caves far below their feet. Swimming in Peacock Spring and Orange Grove Sink are popular activities during the summer. Grills and pavilions are available for picnicking. Located 16 miles southwest of Live Oak on State Road 51, two miles east of Luraville on Peacock Springs Road.
About 1,000 years ago this land was pushed up from the Gulf floor to rest on a limestone platform.
Its geologic growth hasn?t stopped. Recent research has documented a 30 percent increase in the size of this platform since 1957. Peacock Springs State Recreation Area is an outstanding natural ecosystem containing elements of statewide and national significance.
Excellent examples of surface and subsurface karst limestone features, including two major springs, a major spring run, six sinkholes and numerous small sinks and depressions, can be found in the 288-acre recreation area.
Annual Entrance Passes can be purchased at all park ranger stations and museums. If you require immediate use of your pass, this is the best option. Passes can be purchased during regular business hours 365 days a year. Please call the park in advance to ensure availability. Those who are eligible for discounted or free passes may use this method to receive their pass. Annual Entrance Passes may be purchased online by visiting the
FLORIDA STATE PARKS ANNUALENTRANCE PASSES web page.
Swimming is limited to Orange Grove and Peacock Springs and is dependent upon seasonal water levels. Swimmers do so at their own risk. There are no lifeguards.
Snorkeling is limited to Orange Grove and Peacock Springs and is dependent upon seasonal water levels. Swimmers do so at their own risk. There are no lifeguards.
FOR EVERYONE'S SAFETY THE RULES LISTED BELOW MUST BE FOLLOWED:
All divers must show proof of certification before diving. Cavern and cave diving is available to certified dive teams in Orange Grove Sink & Peacock Springs. Open water divers are allowed in Orange Grove Sink only. No lights for open water dives. Instructors conducting a class must have a Commercial Dive Permit. Divers dive at their own risk. No solo diving is permitted. Dives cannot extend past 5:00 p.m. No scooters (DPV's) or ATV's. No fishing.
Peacock Springs State Park is located near Live Oak
Picnic facilities are available in two areas of the park. The Orange Grove Sink offers picnic tables, grills and a two-table pavilion. Peacock Springs offers picnic tables and grills. All picnic areas are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
- Peacock Springs Trail: A 1.2-mile loop trail that takes hikers through a dense forest, offering views of the park's two main springs - Peacock and Orange Grove.
- Pothole Sinkhole Trail: This short half-a-mile hike leads to an impressive sinkhole; it is relatively flat with some uneven terrain due to tree roots.
- Peanut Tunnel Loop: An adventurous offshoot from the primary trail leading towards a small underwater cave system known as "Peanut Tunnel"; not recommended for inexperienced hikers or those uncomfortable in confined spaces.
- Baptizing Spring Pathway: Leads directly to one of seven active karst windows within the park where divers enter underground water-filled caves; this pathway offers unique opportunities for wildlife viewing along its route.
- Olsen Sink Overlook Track : Provides elevated view over Olsen Sink, another popular diving spot within Park boundaries; approximately quarter mile long but steep at places making it moderately challenging.
-Water Hole Cave Entrance Route : Short path branching out from main trails taking you right up close to Water hole entrance which serves as access point into complex submerged cavern network beneath Park grounds
-Cavern Diving Trails (for certified divers only): Numerous marked routes exist under surface providing experienced scuba-divers opportunity explore vast subterranean aquatic ecosystem featuring tunnels,caves,sinkholes etc.; lengths vary greatly depending on chosen course ranging anywhere between few hundred feet upto several miles
BBs / Inns
Our historic inn is located in historic Saint Marks, one of the oldest settlements in North America. First settled in 1527, Saint Marks is a historic little city at the confluence of the Wakulla and St. Marks Rivers. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Saint Marks National Wildlife Refuge, it is located just 20 miles south of Tallahassee.
63.8 miles from park*
Well-behaved dogs are welcome at Peacock Springs State Park. They must be kept on a 6-foot leash at all times and can not be left unattended for more than a half-hour. Dogs are not permitted in the springs.
From Live Oak, take SR 51 South approximately 17 miles to Luraville. Turn left on 180th Street, go approximately 2 miles. Park entrance is on your right. From Mayo, take SR 51 North approximately 7 miles to Luraville. Turn right on 180th Street and go approximately 2 miles. Park entrance is on the right.