Experiences & Amenities

Forest Capital Museum State Park is committed to providing a variety of amenities accessible to all of our visitors. These amenities include:

• Visitor center and museum with interpretive exhibits.
• Picnic facilities with tables and grills.

Service animals are welcome in all areas of Florida State Parks.

Adjacent to the museum is the North Florida Cracker Homestead interpretive site. The homestead was built in 1864 and depicts the daily lives that were typical of that time period. The term "cracker" was used to describe the cracking sound of long whips used to herd their cattle. 

• Guided tours are available for groups. Call the park office for information at 850-584-3227.

The Forest Capital Museum is an octagonal structure made from cypress and pine wood with high beamed ceilings, topped with a glass dome. The museum offers a fundamental understanding of the evolution, ecology and productivity of our forests. The whole family will enjoy the exhibits of lifelike animals native to the area. 

Early turpentine production once crucial to naval stores comes to life in a diorama. Antique turpentine tools are displayed, and diagrams and photographs depict and describe the life cycles of a forest. 

The center of the museum is dedicated to displaying products that are derived from forests. The beauty of Florida's native wood is displayed in a map of Florida with each of the 67 counties carved from a species of wood native to its area. "Terry the Talking Tree" sums it all up with a message about the importance of our forests.

Well-behaved dogs are welcome at Forest Capital Museum State Park. They must be kept on a 6-foot handheld leash at all times and cannot be left unattended. Pets are not permitted in buildings.

• See our Pet Policy.

The octagonal lobby of the visitor center features rare peck cypress walls, leading into the forestry displays in the museum. The center provides information on Florida State Parks and offers a variety of novelty gifts.