The Forest Capital Museum State Park occupies 13 acres just south of Perry
Florida. The property, which originally was the ancestral homestead of Florida
senator Pete Gibson, was donated to the State in 1972. The property includes the
original "cracker" cabin built in 1863 which is open to the public. The State
Park also includes a museum and interpretive center, picnic area and playground.
The museum
features exhibits that show the history forestry of the forest industry in
Florida. It includes a detailed look at native long-leaf pines, and many of the
products that were made from them. Displays show how turpentine is extracted
from the trees and distilled. Forest ecology and small animal exhibits are also
available. One of the highlights of the museum is a carved wood map of Florida
with each of the State's 67 counties being made of wood native to that area.
The old cracker homestead includes an authentic cabin and outbuildings complete
with period furnishings dating to the late 1800's. A vegetable garden is planted
each spring, and demonstrations of sugar cane production and syrup-making are
done seasonally.
Forest Capital Museum State Park also has several short nature trails around the
grounds. Restrooms and a children's playground are centrally located in the
picnic area that includes three covered pavilions than can seat up to 60 people.
The pavilions are available for rental for parties or family get-togethers. The
Park is also a popular place for weddings.
Activities & Facilities
Museum or Visitor Center
Playground
Picnic shelter
Dogs allowed
Short hiking trails