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Lake Talquin State Park adventures

Lake Talquin State Park Adventures

Lake Talquin State Park offers diverse outdoor activities focused around the 11,000-acre Lake Talquin, including fishing, boating, hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing in a scenic landscape of forests and wetlands.

5,700
Acres Protected
20
Miles of Trails
Approximately 100,000
Annual Visitors
1968
Year Established

About Lake Talquin State Park

 

Located in north-central Florida west of Tallahassee, Lake Talquin State Park encompasses over 5,700 acres of forested uplands and wetlands surrounding Lake Talquin, a large reservoir on the Ochlockonee River. The park's geography features hardwood and pine forests, cypress swamps, and extensive shoreline, creating habitat for a wide variety of wildlife including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, alligators, and numerous bird species. The lake itself is a popular fishing and boating destination known for bass and crappie. The park's history is tied to the creation of Lake Talquin in 1927 through the construction of a hydroelectric dam. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as hiking nearly 20 miles of trails, mountain biking, paddling, and camping in multiple developed campgrounds. Notable landmarks include Lake Talquin Dam, scenic Overlook Point, and the Blue Spring area known for its natural springs and birdwatching. The park appeals to families, anglers, paddlers, and nature enthusiasts seeking quiet natural spaces close to Tallahassee. Its combination of lakefront access, forested surroundings, and variety of amenities makes it a distinguished regional outdoor destination.

Highlights

Highlight

Lake Talquin Dam – Historic hydroelectric dam and scenic viewpoint

Highlight

Blue Spring – Natural spring area offering cool swimming and birdwatching

Highlight

Pine Flatwoods Trail – Forest trail known for mountain biking and wildlife

Highlight

Overlook Point – Quiet lakefront area with panoramic views and fishing spots

Notable Natural Features

Lake Talquin Reservoir

An 11,000-acre man-made lake formed by the Talquin Dam, offering diverse fishing opportunities and extensive paddling routes.

Hydroelectric Dam

Built in 1927, the Talquin Dam created the lake and remains a historic landmark within the park.

Blue Spring

A natural spring feeding into the lake, popular for birdwatching and providing a cool swimming spot.