Bulow Plantation Ruins State Park
Explore 19th-century coquina ruins of a sugar mill amidst a lush live oak forest, offering history and nature.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Bulow Plantation Ruins State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore 19th-century coquina ruins of a sugar mill amidst a lush live oak forest, offering history and nature.
"A hidden gem for history-loving hikers! Discover the Bulow Plantation Ruins and nearby Bulow Creek."
💰 Affordable Entry
Just $4 per car for access to trails, picnic spots, and ruins. An honor system fee box is in place.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Essential for exploring the historic ruins and walking the nature trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Coquina Sugar Mill Ruins
Central ruins area
Explore the impressive, crumbling coquina walls of the 1800s sugar mill, a testament to Florida's past.
Live Oak Forest Trails
Various trailheads
Wander through a lush live oak forest along a tidal creek, offering a peaceful nature escape.
Remains of Slave Cabins
Tucked away trail
Discover the poignant remnants of former slave cabins, offering a deeper understanding of plantation life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for History Buffs
Embrace the Outdoors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Affordable Entry
Just $4 per car for access to trails, picnic spots, and ruins. An honor system fee box is in place.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Essential for exploring the historic ruins and walking the nature trails.
🛶 Kayak Launch
Launch kayaks into Bulow Creek for a scenic paddle and return to the park.
📸 Capture the History
The coquina ruins and surrounding nature offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Affordable Entry
Just $4 per car for access to trails, picnic spots, and ruins. An honor system fee box is in place.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Essential for exploring the historic ruins and walking the nature trails.
🛶 Kayak Launch
Launch kayaks into Bulow Creek for a scenic paddle and return to the park.
📸 Capture the History
The coquina ruins and surrounding nature offer fantastic photo opportunities.
🐍 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for armadillos, deer, snakes, and other local wildlife.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Bulow Plantation Ruins State Park for its unique blend of history and nature, highlighting the well-preserved coquina ruins and the serene walking trails. Many appreciate the affordable entry fee and the lack of overwhelming crowds, making it a peaceful escape. Some minor updates to interpretive displays are suggested, but overall, it's considered a hidden gem for those seeking a glimpse into 'Old Florida'.
"Dog friendly, Very pretty, kinda sad (history-wise), perfect to visit after Thanksgiving. Beautiful views, interesting history that makes you appreciate the hard work of slaves. Lots of trails and lush nature 💗 Ruins can be driven to as well. We came here on a chilly day with a beautiful breeze. Feels miles away from everywhere, but still close to a lot of stuff (The Loop, Ormond/Flager Beach, etc.) Deffo work a visit. It's not technically free, but there is a QR code to pay $4. Easily worth it."
Julie Talbert
"This is an amazing park. If you like nature and history, this is the place for you. I loved the care taken in displaying the artifacts and the ruins. I wish I had found this place sooner."
Lori Tech
"If you like old history, it's a place to check out. It has a 3 mile round trip hiking trail before you go through the gate. They have an honor system fee box of 5$ 2 for walking into the park & bikes. There is a road to the L that goes to the ruins. People were fishing of a small dock."
Gary
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is located in Flagler County, Florida. It's accessible by car, with clear signage from local roads. Many visitors arrive from nearby cities like Daytona Beach or Ormond Beach.
Yes, there are parking areas available, including a southern parking lot with clean bathrooms and picnic facilities.
Yes, using a GPS or mapping app with the park's name, 'Bulow Plantation Ruins State Park,' will guide you directly to the location.
While specific details on RV parking aren't widely shared, the park generally accommodates standard vehicles. Kayak launches and picnic areas are accessible.
Public transportation options are limited in this area. Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is an affordable $4 per car, payable via an honor system fee box. This grants access to trails and picnic areas.
The park is generally open during daylight hours, though specific closing times can vary. It's best to check the official Florida State Parks website for the most current information.
No, advance booking is not typically required. The honor system fee box makes entry straightforward.
The current fee is already very affordable at $4 per car. Specific discount programs are not widely advertised.
The park is generally closed after dark to ensure safety and preservation. It's recommended to plan your visit within operating hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic coquina ruins of a sugar mill, walk through live oak forests on nature trails, and potentially spot wildlife like armadillos and deer.
Yes, the park offers several hiking trails, including a loop around the ruins and access to longer trails like the Bulow Creek Trail. Some trail access may be affected by storm damage.
Absolutely! There's a kayak launch on Bulow Creek and a small dock for fishing.
Yes, families can enjoy the nature trails, historical ruins, and the opportunity to see local wildlife. It's a great educational outing.
Yes, the park provides restrooms and picnic tables, making it a pleasant spot for a day trip.
📸 📸 Photography
The coquina ruins, especially during the golden hour, offer dramatic and historic shots. The dappled sunlight through the live oaks also creates beautiful scenes. +1
Drone usage regulations can vary by state park. It's advisable to check the official Florida State Parks guidelines before flying a drone.
Early morning and late afternoon light provides a warm, soft glow that enhances the textures of the coquina ruins and the lush greenery.
General photography for personal use is permitted. Commercial photography may require special permits. Always be respectful of the historical site.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the ruins and the surrounding landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to enjoy at the designated areas, making it a full day of exploration. The affordable entry fee makes it a budget-friendly outing. Encourage curiosity by discussing the history and the different animals they might see. It's a great opportunity for hands-on learning about Florida's past and its natural environment.
🚶♀️ History Enthusiasts & Hikers
Hikers will appreciate the network of trails through the live oak forest. While some longer trails might be affected by storm damage, the accessible paths offer a pleasant walk with opportunities for wildlife viewing. Combining a historical exploration with a nature hike makes for a rewarding visit.
🛶 Paddlers & Anglers
Anglers can cast a line from the small dock, offering a relaxed way to enjoy the park's waters. Whether you're looking for a leisurely paddle or a quiet fishing spot, Bulow Plantation Ruins State Park caters to water enthusiasts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Florida's Plantation Past
+2Visitors can explore the main sugar mill ruins, which feature arched entryways and substantial coquina walls, as well as the foundations of other plantation buildings. A particularly poignant area is the trail leading to the remains of the former slave cabins, offering a more complete, though somber, picture of plantation life. The park's historical significance is amplified by its natural setting, with the ruins often dappled in sunlight filtering through mature oak trees.
Understanding the history of Bulow Plantation is crucial for appreciating the park. The plantation's prosperity was tragically cut short in 1836 during the Second Seminole War, when it was destroyed. The ruins today are not just architectural remnants but also historical markers that invite reflection on Florida's complex past, from its agricultural boom to its conflicts.
Nature's Embrace: Trails and Wildlife
+1The park is a haven for wildlife. Visitors frequently report sightings of armadillos scurrying through the undergrowth, white-tailed deer grazing peacefully, and various bird species. The presence of reptiles, including gopher tortoises and even snakes, adds to the park's ecological richness. For those interested in aquatic life, the Bulow Creek offers opportunities for paddling and observing jumping fish.
+3Whether you're embarking on a short stroll to the ruins or a longer hike, the natural beauty of Bulow Plantation Ruins State Park enhances the overall experience. The combination of historical exploration and natural immersion makes it a unique destination for a day trip. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and consider bringing insect repellent, especially during warmer months.
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