Resources
Resources for exploring the area
Disclosure: As authors and affiliates, we receive earnings when you buy these through our links. This helps us provide public information on this website.
Exploring Ponce De Leon
Spanish explorer Ponce De Leon was in search of the “Fountain of Youth” – and gold – when he came to the shores of Florida.
He didn’t find either, but this town in Holmes County bears his name because of the shimmering waters of major springs.
With several beautiful springs surrounding this tiny community off Interstate 10, it’s a gem that most travelers miss unless they ramble the back roads.
Trails and Parks near Ponce De Leon
Florida Trail, Choctawhatchee River 8.5 miles. Crossing majestic longleaf pine forests in Nokuse, the Florida Trail along the Choctawhatchee River floodplain showcases natural beauty from Cypress Creek to Seven Runs.
Florida Trail, Forgotten Creek 9.7 miles. Contrasting steephead ravines and sluggish creeks in gum swamps with longleaf pine restoration areas, the Forgotten Creek portion of the Florida Trail in Nokuse surprises with its challenges.
Florida Trail, Nokuse 27.7 miles. Spanning from the Choctawhatchee River west to the boundary of Eglin Air Force Base, Nokuse is a compelling backpacker's destination in the Florida Panhandle.
L.D. Anderson Tract South of Interstate 10, the loop on the L.D. Anderson Tract of Ponce De Leon Springs State Park showcases careful restoration of native habitats in the uplands bordering Sandy Creek.
Morrison Springs Park Surrounded by a rim of old growth cypress, Morrison Springs is a beautiful second magnitude spring with swimming and diver access down an interpretive boardwalk.
Paddling Holmes Creek With a dozen launch points and more than 15 springs along its 16 mile length, Holmes Creek, a tributary of the Choctawhatchee River, is a must-do paddling trip along a remote waterway.
Ponce De Leon Springs Nature Trails Two short nature trails, the Sandy Creek Trail and the Spring Run Trail, follow the confluence of waters at Ponce De Leon Springs State Park.
Ponce de Leon Springs State Park In the middle of the Florida Panhandle, Ponce de Leon Springs is along the upper end of a belt of shimmering springs that feed the Choctawhatchee River basin.Articles
Paddling Holmes Creek (7/5/2017) With a dozen launch points and more than 15 springs along its 16 mile length, Holmes Creek, a tributary of the Choctawhatchee River, is a must-do paddling trip along a remote waterway.
In a Canoe (3/18/2017) Since falling in love, becoming a couple, and marrying, it was time for a real test of our relationship: going upstream with two paddles along Holmes Creek.