Paynes Creek Historic State Park, Bowling Green

Beautiful place! We didn't see another person while we were there exploring, so peaceful! The bathrooms are clean, the visitor center was very informative and the park and river are just so pretty. Definitely worth a visit if you enjoy hiking or history.

This park had a very nice Museum of pioneer and Seminole life in the early to mid 1800s. Admission is included with park entrance fee. There are some awesome hiking trails that go down to and along the peace river as well as a canoe / kayak launch on the river. The young ranger in charge was extraordinarily enthusiastic about his job and very helpful. I happened to be there for the reenactment of a trading Post massacre from the early 1800s. Except for a group camping area for Boy Scouts and such, it is primarily a day use only park. Most of the park is heavily wooded and well shaded. The surrounding area is authentic Old Florida. There is an excellent BBQ place very close by that is popular with locals.