Natural Bridge Battlefield Historic State Park is a significant Civil War
historical site - and has an interesting geological feature from which it
derives its name. Although it is actually in Leon County, we've included it in
our listing of places on the Nature Coast.
The park is situated on 135
acres of land, the first portion of which was donated for use as a park by the
United Daughters of the Confederacy in 1950. It is the site of the Battle of
Natural Bridge, which was fought during the final weeks of the Civil War. During
the battle, Confederate forces repelled three major attacks from Union troops,
saving Tallahasee from capture. A re-enactment of the battle is held at the park
the first full weekend in March each year. There is a monument on the grounds
commemorating the battle.
In addition to its obvious significance to those interested in Civil War
history, Natural Bridge Battlefield Historic State Park is also interesting for
its geological features. The St. Marks River, which flows through the park,
disappears underground near the northern park boundary, and does not fully
re-emerge until it reaches the St. Marks River Rise, south of the park border. A
number of sinkholes and sinkhole lakes, and an aquatic cave system are present
within the boundaries of the park. There is also evidence of an old canal that
was likely excavated in the 19th century in order to provide a connection
between the sinkhole lakes so that logs could be transported down the river
across the natural bridge.
The park includes a picnic area with several covered shelters, and restrooms. A
boat and kayak launch is provided along the St. Marks River before it disappears
underground, and navigation is possible upstream from that point.
Activities & Facilities
Picnic shelter
Short hiking trails
Paved bike trails