Nature in Every Direction

Sure, the communities of Authentic Walton are filled with great restaurants, shops and historic attractions, but all the scenic space in between them is just as big of a draw across Freeport, DeFuniak Springs and Paxton. Hike along a peaceful trail through the woods. Take a plunge into a refreshing natural swimming hole. Get out on a river, lake or the Bay. Exploring the area’s beauty is the ideal way to recharge by getting off the grid.

The area’s diverse waterways offer great opportunities for fishing, swimming, boating and paddleboarding. Morrison Springs is a 161-acre park highlighted by a spring-fed pool that attracts dive enthusiasts, ecotourists and casual swimmers alike. The crystal-clear water provides virtually perfect visibility and the depths up to 300 feet are exciting for underwater explorers. The 64-mile Choctawhatchee River Paddle Trail has recently been designated as an official state Blueway. Trail stops such as Cowford Landing offer multi-use ramps, picnic pavilions and overnight camping facilities.

Waterfront parks also add to the fun. Grady Brown Park offers three piers and a beach area on the Bay. Over in DeFuniak Springs you’ll find Lake Stanley Park and Chipley Park, which surrounds Lake DeFuniak. Near Paxton, Lake Jackson straddles the Florida-Alabama line, with a free public boat ramp on the Florida side.

And if you want to stick to dry land, Lakewood Park has picturesque walking trails. You can even climb Britton Hill – the highest point of geographical elevation in all of Florida (at a modest 345 feet above sea level). Attracting day hikers and long-haulers alike, the Florida National Scenic Trail crosses through Authentic Walton, including portions of Nokuse Plantation and the Eglin Air Force Base Reservation (pass may be required). Eglin Reservation has designated campsites for those wishing to soak in the scenery for the night.

Birdwatching opportunities also abound north of the Bay. Dedicated to protecting all kinds of wildlife, E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center is an ideal place to spot countless species. The pine forest of Bay Flats at Eglin Reservation represents the habitat that used to be prevalent across the panhandle. Though small, Harry A. Laird City Park is a stop on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail – ideal for songbirds during migration.

So whether you’re paddling through a quiet cypress spring, wandering under tall pines, or just sitting still by the water’s edge, there’s something grounding about the space between our small towns. Out here, nature does the talking—and if you’re listening, she has plenty to say.