Park Summary for Print - Yellow River Marsh Preserve State Park

Welcome to Yellow River Marsh Preserve State Park

This preserve protects one of Florida's last remaining tracts of wet prairie, including the largest community of pitcher plants in the state. The carnivorous plants flourish here, passively trapping insects in specialized tube-shaped leaves and absorbing nutrients from their decomposing prey. The preserve is located in Santa Rosa County on Garcon Point, which separates Escambia Bay from Blackwater Bay. Nearly 20 rare and endangered species of plants and animals make their homes along the bay and its wet prairies, dome swamps, and flatwoods. There are no recreational facilities in the preserve, but the sweeping landscapes of the pitcher plant prairies offer a tremendous opportunity for photography and nature appreciation. A small parking area, gazebo, and public access point are located on Dickerson City Road. Located on County Road 191, approximately one mile north of the intersection with County Road 281 and along both sides of the highway on Blackwater Bay.

Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Yellow River Marsh Preserve State Park, please call 850-983-5363.

Hours of Operation

8:00 AM to sunset

Driving Directions

Located on County Road 191, approximately one mile north of the intersection with County Road 281.

Park Fees

There are presently no entrance fees associated with this park.

Activities at Yellow River Marsh Preserve State Park

Special Events for Yellow River Marsh Preserve State Park

There are no events listed at this time. Please call our park for more details on possible future events.

Yellow River Marsh Preserve State Park History

The earliest recorded history of European explorers on the Garcon Peninsula is the settlement of Mulat Bayou by Diego de Maldonado. Maldonado was the navigator for Hernando De Soto and remained at Garcon with the Creek Indians while De Soto moved across the Southern Territory. After the area being the site of Indian population for centuries, settlers raised cattle, turpentine practices and cultivating produce.