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Torreya State Park: Florida's Hidden Gem with Waterfalls, Rare Trees, and Civil War History
9 Nov
Summary
- Torreya State Park offers a glimpse of wild Florida with ravines, hills, and waterfalls
- Home to the rare and endangered torreya tree, one of the world's rarest
- Park features Civil War history, with Confederate soldiers guarding the Apalachicola River
Torreya State Park, located in northern Florida, is a hidden gem that offers visitors a glimpse of the state's wild and rugged natural beauty. Opened to the public in 1935, the 13,000-acre park is known as the "Mountains of Florida" due to its ravines, hills, and seasonal foliage that more closely resemble the landscapes of Georgia or North Carolina.
One of the park's main draws is the rare and endangered torreya tree, which can only be found on the high bluffs along the Apalachicola River. Discovered in 1835, there are now only around 200 of these trees left in the world. The park is also home to the critically endangered Florida yew, as well as a variety of rare flowers and over 100 bird species.
In addition to its natural wonders, Torreya State Park also boasts a rich history. During the Civil War, 200 Confederate soldiers were stationed on the bluffs above the Apalachicola River, guarding the river and protecting a manufacturing hub in Columbus, Georgia. The remains of their cannon emplacements can still be seen today.
