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

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.

Pay Online, Single-Use Day Pass

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 daily during park hours of operation.  

Plan Your Visit

Park Manger Brett Gormon.
Learn

Manager's Message

As the new park manager of Paynes Creek Historic State Park, I am excited about the natural and cultural resources the park has to offer. I hope to see you soon!
A view of the creek that feeds into Peace River.
Learn

Explore Peace River

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

Florida State Parks Annual Pass

Annual Entrance Passes can be purchased at all park ranger stations and museums. If you require immediate use of your pass, this is the best option. Passes can be purchased during regular business hours 365 days a year.

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
Blackwater
Unnamed Creek
Several ibis forage for food on the Peace River.
Paynes Creek Historic Whiddon Monument
Paynes Creek Historic
Paynes Creek Historic Reenactment
The suspension bridge over Paynes Creek.
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
Learn

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 enjoyable 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:

Native American Heritage Trail
National Register of Historic Places

Park Map

More Places You Might Like

See all parks
Suspension Bridge at Hillsborough River State Park

Hillsborough River State Park

Class II rapids are a rarity in Florida, but you can find them at beautiful Hillsborough River State Park. Just minutes from downtown Tampa, this diverse park offers a refuge from city life with seven miles of nature trails and ample places to cool off in the water.

15402 U.S. 301 North
Thonotosassa FL 33592

Mountain Biker on a bike track at Alafia River State Park

Alafia River State Park

The unique topography boasts some of the most radical elevation changes in the state and attracts mountain bikers from around the world to tackle the mountain bike-only trails.

14326 S. County Road 39
Lithia FL 33547

Koreshan State Park

Koreshan State Park

Koreshan State Park offers a fascinating journey back in time to when a utopian group settled in the Florida frontier. Through exhibits and tours, one can reflect on the many ways people thrive in our natural world.

3800 Corkscrew Road
Estero FL 33928