Over 87% of Franklin County's 545 square miles are preserved and managed by the state or federal government.  These open lands provide endless opportunities to explore both uplands and coastal lowlands.  From a dwarf cypress boardwalk and observation tower to primitive beaches, there are miles of trails available for hiking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, bicycling or horseback riding.  The links below will help you find your way.


Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve

Encompassing over 246,000 acres in Apalachicola Bay, it is the 2nd largest Estuarine Research Reserve system in the nation. Educational center located at the north end of Market Street. Exhibits on the flora and fauna of the area, an aviary and live giant fish tanks. Open Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. 653-8063

Apalachicola Paddling Trail System
The Apalachicola Paddling Trail System is one of the country’s top twelve paddling destinations according to Paddler magazine and the American Canoe Association.  Maps are available on website.

Cape St. George State Reserve
This 9-mile-long reserve is one of three barrier islands that separate Apalachicola Bay from the Gulf of Mexico. The Reserve’s remoteness and wilderness provides an opportunity to explore and enjoy a remnant of Florida’s original natural landscape. It is also the former home to the Cape St. George Lighthouse and lighthouse keeper’s quarters. Built in 1852, the  72 foot lighthouse now stands in the center of St George Island. Shell collecting is very good, accessible only by boat.

St. George Island State Park
Nine miles of undeveloped beach, pristine shoreline, majestic dunes and bay forest, sandy coves and salt marshes. A series of hiking trails, boardwalks and observation platforms great for hiking, camping or a leisurely stroll. (850) 927-2111

St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge Visitor’s Center
St. Vincent Island is an unspoiled barrier island at the west end of Apalachicola Bay. The refuge is open during daylight hours. It is only accessible by boat and there are no facilities available. Visitor’s Center is located on the north end of Market Street in Apalachicola. Open 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday (850) 653-8808

Apalachicola National Forest
564,000 acres. Camping, picnicking, boating, hunting, fishing. (850) 643-2282

Fort Gadsden Historic Site
Located on the east bank of the Apalachicola River approximately 45 minutes north of Eastpoint, accessed by Highway 65. The site interprets the role of Native and African Americans during the early 1800s. This site is managed as part of the Apalachicola National Forest. (850) 643-2282

St Joseph Bay Preserves
Over 5,000 acres on St. Joseph Bay.  Educational center, programs, and volunteer opportunities.  The St. Joseph Bay Preserve is located at 3915 Highway C-30 (850) 229-1787

St. Joseph Peninsula State Park
Miles of white sand beaches, striking dunes, 2,516 acre park. Excellent snorkeling, swimming, birding, camping. Voted #2 beach in the nation by Dr. Beach. (850) 227-1327

Tate’s Hell State Forest
202,437 acres of forest for hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, fishing, hunting and camping.  Tate's Hell is best known for its large expanse of wetlands which act as a natural filter for water entering the Apalachicola River and Bay.  Several stands of unique dwarf cypress trees are located here, some documented to be over 150 years old.  Savannas covering hundreds of acres include rare pitcher plants, diverse grasses and wildflowers.  (850) 697-3734.

Gulf Specimen Marine Lab
Information on public aquarium hours, field trips, scientific research call 850-984-5297