Florida Guide > State Parks
DEER LAKE
Deer Lake State Park is situated on the c. r 30 in Santa Rosa Beach in Florida's North West area. It is within the Seacrest and to the north are the walking trails through natural terrain and to the south are the beautiful beaches.
It is called after the coastal dune lake which sits within the park. Coastal dune lakes are very rare world wide and in America are only found along it's gulf coast.
This lovely park covers 1920 acres and is famous for its varied and rare vegetation. These include Godfreys Golden Aster and Cruises Golden Aster; plus of course masses of the more common sea oats.
The pond areas host Rose Bud Orchids Sundews Pine Lilies and much more. And here comes the superlative, the largest amount of Curtis Sand Grass in any one place in the world.
The Blackwater Streams are where you find the azaleas; visit in the spring for their full glory. During the summer, come again to see a host of wild flowers that add their splash of colour. These you will find in the cypress domes (in the long leaf pine habitat).
The beaches are pristine, peaceful and beautiful. You can fish here too. You will need a license available from Walmarts that have a sports section, sports shops and also on line.
Feeling energetic? there is a 10 mile hike all along the coast on the Walton Counties Trail. Or you can take a more challenging route among the trees.
There is a boardwalk across the dunes where you can admire the 11 natural communities. These are Blackwater Stream; Coastal Dune Lakes; Dome Swamp; Mesic Flat Woods; Sand Hill; Basin, Scrub; EstuarineTdal Creek, Marine Sub Srate and Depression Marsh.
Although this is considered a sub tropical area, you may be surprised to learn that they sometimes have snow! Average yearly rainfall is 60 inches mainly in the summer months.
This truly feels like the natural Florida that has remained unchanged for thousands of years and the lush vegetation, peace and lovely view from the beach will make your visit memorable.
The cost for this great day out is nothing; not even a dollar. Take your own food and drink (there is a pic nic area) and in the summer sun screen, a sun hat and really important this, insect repellant for all the family Oh and also swimmimg costumes all round to swim in that emerald sea.
Open from 8am to sun down you do not want to miss this little gem.
While you are there stop by the near by Grayton Beach State Recreation .
Deer Lake State Park
357 Main Park Road
Santa Rosa Beach
Florida 32459
Phone: 850-231-0337
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