Bald Point State Park occupies 4,065 acres on a peninsula south of Ochlockonee Bay near the mouth of the Ochlockonee River. Upland forest with pine flatwoods and oak scrub communities occupy a good portion of the park, but coastal marshes are the predominant feature in the northeast section. White sand beaches line the eastern and southern shores of the peninsula. While the park is located in Franklin County, it still deserves mention in our Nature Coast places of interest.

The variety of habitats available at Bald Point State Park make this a great place to bird watch and observe wildlife. It is a favored stopping point for migrating raptors, wading birds, and other tropical migratory species such as the monarch butterfly. Loggerhead sea turtles also make their nests along the beaches. Other endangered species, including the Florida black bear, call this park home.

Public beaches along the eastern shoreline of the park provide access to the Gulf of Mexico, where swimming and sunbathing are popular activities. Outdoor showers are provided at the Maritime Hammock and Sunrise Beach access points. No lifeguards are on duty, so swim at your own risk.

There are 18 miles of multiuse hiking and biking trails in the park, organized into one-way and loop routes. Dogs on a leash are allowed on the trails. See the trail map link below for detailed description of each trail.

Kayak and canoe access is available at a launch site at Bald Point for open water access. You may also launch at Tucker Lake and paddle Claire's Creek to Ochlockonee Bay. You should plan to have a fairly high tide to navigate Claire's Creek the entire length.Activities & Facilities

Picnic shelterShort hiking trailsLong hiking trailsPaved bike trailsMountain bike trailsSwimmingOpen gulf kayakingTent campingFishing

• Florida State Parks website for Bald Point State Park
• Trail map
• Park brochure
• 2006 Unit Management Plan