Journey Through Florida’s Mysterious Woods to Historic Bulow Plantation

Nestled along Florida’s East Coast in Flagler Beach lies a remarkable historical trail that uncovers some of the state’s most significant moments. The Bulow Woods Trail offers visitors an intriguing glimpse into the past, featuring the remnants of an old plantation and sugar mill. At Bulow Creek State Park, you can immerse yourself in the captivating and enigmatic story of the Bulow family. Boasting a lengthy path that invites exploration, this trail is a must-visit for those curious about Florida’s history.

For anyone eager to experience the beauty of nature while delving into the past, Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park, a key part of the Bulow Creek State Park system, is the perfect destination.

Sign for Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park beside a road, surrounded by greenery and trees.
Clyde B / Google Reviews

The Bulow Woods Trail spans 6.8 miles, offering an engaging journey through the natural beauty of Bulow Creek State Park. This scenic trail links the southern terminus of the historic Bulow Plantation Ruins with the Fairchild Oak parking area, allowing visitors to experience remarkable sights along the way.

Entrance to Bledsoe Plantation Ruins, featuring a stop sign and signs for the historic state park, surrounded by trees.
Clyde B / Google Reviews

Although there are easier paths in the park for viewing the ruins and the historic sugar mill, we suggest this hike for its comprehensive experience. It allows hikers to take in all the highlights and truly appreciate everything the area has to offer.

A sandy path winds through a lush, green forest with tall trees and palm plants on either side.
louri Dovnarovich / Google Reviews

Wander through the ancient forest, making your way along the serene salt marshes of the Tomoka Basin.

Lush wetlands with tall grasses, palm plants, and trees under a blue sky with scattered clouds.
Rick Cosmas / AllTrails

As you explore the park, keep an eye out for the Fairchild Oak, the oldest tree in the area. This majestic oak tree has stood for approximately 600 years and serves as the starting point for the southern section of the trail.

A large, sprawling tree with moss-covered branches in a lush, green landscape.
Jim Brekke / Flickr

As you progress along your journey, you’ll encounter the scorched remnants of the historic Bulow Plantation.

Ruins of a stone structure surrounded by trees and fallen leaves, with informational signs nearby.
Andrea Hoelscher / AllTrails

This expansive location invites visitors to explore its remnants. Adventurous hikers can also follow an additional trail that leads directly to another set of ruins at the old sugar mill.

Ruins of stone structures surrounded by trees and moss, with a pathway leading through a lush green landscape.
Melissa Trahan / Google Reviews

The Bulow Sugar Mill, which was the largest sugar mill in the state at its peak, was managed by the Bulow family until it was destroyed by fire during the Second Seminole War in 1820.

Ruins of an old stone structure surrounded by trees and grass, with informational signs nearby.
Andrea Sparks / Google Reviews

Visitors can still explore the remnants of a historic sugar mill, where they can observe the locations and operations of various production areas, even though only ruins remain of this once-thriving site.

Ruins of stone structures surrounded by trees, with informational signs and benches in a historical site.
Franklyn Pearson / AllTrails

Prepare a packed lunch to savor at one of the numerous picnic tables available as you make your way back along the trail to your starting point.

A sandy path winds through a lush, green forest with tall trees and dense foliage on either side.
mystuart / Flickr

To locate Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park in Florida, you can use Google Maps for directions.

Map showing Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park, located near the coast and surrounded by green areas.
Google Maps

Bulow Creek State Park is an intriguing destination that offers a blend of rich history and stunning natural landscapes. If you haven’t yet ventured along the Bulow Woods Trail in Florida, it’s definitely worth adding to your hiking list.

TRENDING NOW

LATEST LOCAL NEWS