Falling Waters State Park
This inviting site has attracted humans for eons. Native American artifacts dating back 5,000 years have been found here and it was used as a hideout for warriors during the Seminole War. It was also the site of Florida's first oil well and a water-powered grist mill. It is now best known as the site of the eponymous Falling Waters Sink. The 100-foot-deep cylindrical pit provides the background for a waterfall that free-falls 73 feet to the bottom of the sink—but where it goes after that is a mystery. There's an observation deck for viewing this natural phenomenon, but be forewarned: the flow depends on recent rainfall. Rainy days actually enhance the experience! Once you've seen the cascade, stay for the birding—more than 100 species have been seen here—picnicking, swimming in the park's 2-acre lake, and "giant" fox squirrels. Campsites are available.
