The Santa Fe River disappears into a sinkhole within the park and resurfaces as a spring at River Rise Preserve State Park.
O'Leno was one of Florida's first nine state parks, opened to the public in 1940.
The suspension bridge was built using local materials and CCC labor during the Great Depression.
The park's name is a contraction of 'Old Leno,' referring to the town that previously occupied the site.
The park contains a limestone outcrop that creates a natural 'bridge' over the underground river channel.
The park remains a popular site for regional science fairs, a tradition dating back decades.
The river's flow volume can vary drastically, occasionally causing the river to stop flowing entirely at the surface during drought.
O'Leno State Park is uniquely situated where the Santa Fe River disappears into a subterranean sinkhole and emerges over three miles away. The park features a historic suspension bridge constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. It spans 6,000 acres of diverse ecosystems, including sandhills, hardwood hammocks, and river swamp. The site served as the town of Leno in the late 19th century before the river's disappearance hindered local commerce. Visitors can access 13 miles of hiking and biking trails, including the River Trail and the Limestone Trail. The park offers 61 campsites with water and electricity, along with primitive group camping areas. It is designated as a Florida State Park, emphasizing preservation of the river's unique karst topography. Several historic structures from the CCC era remain preserved within the park grounds.
The center of the historic CCC suspension bridge overlooking the river.
Bring insect repellent as the river swamp areas can have significant mosquito populations.
Check the water levels at the ranger station to see if the river is currently flowing through the sinkhole or backing up.
Bikes are recommended for the longer trails, as the terrain is relatively flat but covers significant distance.
Do not attempt to swim in the sinkhole or the river near the sinkhole, as currents can be unpredictable and dangerous.
Open daily throughout the year, though specific campgrounds or trails may close periodically for prescribed burns or maintenance.
Leashed pets are allowed in the park but are strictly prohibited in the campground and cabins.
