Paynes Creek Historic State Park

Paynes Creek Historic State Park

The history of an 1840s outpost in remote but beautiful Florida is preserved and shared

PARK AMENITY OPEN

Effective Jan. 29, 2021, the canoe launch and the Peace River Hiking Trail are open for public use. 

Playground Open

Effective Dec. 19, 2020: The playground at Paynes Creek Historic State Park is now open for public use.  

Hours

8 a.m. to sunset, 365 days a year

Fees

$3 per vehicle

See all Fees

Location

888 Lake Branch Road
Bowling Green FL 33834

Get directions

Contact Info

863-375-4717

Welcome to Paynes Creek Historic State Park

During the 1840s, tensions between the settlers and Seminole Indians prompted authorities to establish a trading post in Florida's interior, away from settlements.

Park Admission - Vehicle

Park Admission - Single Occupant or Motorcycle

Park Admission - Bicycle & Pedestrian

Built in early 1849, the post was attacked and destroyed by Native Americans that summer. In late 1849, Fort Chokonikla was built nearby as the first outpost in a chain of forts established during tensions with Seminole Indians. The Seminoles never attacked the fort, but the Army was nearly defeated by mosquitoes.

Today, nature enthusiasts and hikers can enjoy walking along trails through the park's natural areas. Paynes Creek and the adjoining Peace River provide opportunities for canoeing, kayaking and fishing.

A museum at the visitor center depicts the lives of Florida's Seminole Indians and pioneers during the 19th century. The visitor center is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday through Monday.

Plan Your Visit

Park Manager Morgan Tyrone at HHSP Park Entrance
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Manager's Message

One of the best times to visit Paynes Creek Historic State Park is in the spring. Visitors can enjoy a hike or a paddle on cool mornings and warm afternoons. The Peace River is still at a good level for paddling, the trails are dry and there are exceptional opportunities for avid photographers!
A view of the creek that feeds into Peace River.
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Explore Peace River at Paynes Creek

This easy-flowing river winds through Paynes Creek Historic State Park. Explore the river by boat or long its shores by foot for a tranquil adventure.
Florida State Parks Annual Pass
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Florida State Parks Annual Pass

Due to recent statewide park closures from COVID-19, Florida State Parks will honor all current Annual Entrance Passes for two months past the marked expiration date. Simply present your pass card, like normal, at the time of admission. This extension applies to Annual Entrance Passes purchased between March 1, 2019, and June 30, 2020.

Experiences

Bicycling
Bicycling
Birding
Birding
Camping, Primitive Group
Camping, Primitive Group
Fishing
Fishing
Hiking
Hiking
Paddling
Paddling
Picnicking
Picnicking
Walking and Running
Walking and Running
Wildlife Viewing
Wildlife Viewing

Amenities

Accessible Amenities
Accessible Amenities
Canoe Kayak Launch
Canoe Kayak Launch
Historic Site
Historic Site
Interpretive Exhibit
Interpretive Exhibit
Nature Trail
Nature Trail
Parking
Parking
Pets
Pets
Picnic Pavilion
Picnic Pavilion
Playground
Playground
Restroom Facilities
Restroom Facilities
Visitor Center
Visitor Center

Paynes Creek Historic State Park Photo Gallery

Paynes Creek Historic Whiddon Monument
Paynes Creek Historic
Paynes Creek Historic Reenactment
A view of yellow flowers in the grass.
A view of a bird by the water.
A view of a group of reenactors dressed in period clothing in front of a wooden building.
A view of some deer in the woods
A view of the playground.
A group of reenactors dressed in uniform.
Learn

History of Fort Chokonikla

The first in a chain of stronghold forts for settlers, Fort Chokonikla served as part of a line of defense after the Second Seminole War.
Big Lagoon State Park Trail
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Trails at Florida State Parks

Whether by bicycle, horse, wheelchair, kayak or on your own two feet, trails both within and outside our state parks can lead to a wide variety of adventure and opportunity throughout Florida.

People Make the Parks

Adam Dunham.

Staff Spotlight

A dedicated park ranger, Adam loves the new and exciting things that working at Payne Creek Historic State Park has to offer every day.
Norajean Miles smiling at the camera.

Volunteer Spotlight

A Kentucky native, Norajean found a rich history and exquisite weather at Paynes Creek Historic State Park.
Paynes Creek

Paynes Creek Preservation Alliance

Friends Groups meet the critical needs of individual parks and the system of state parks. They share one thing in common – passion for parks.

This Park is Recognized by:

Trail of Florida's Indian Heritage

Park Map

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