Boonie Falls
Who said there aren’t any falls in Central Florida?
There are two options to find the trail. You can join from the Lockwood Blvd. trailhead, no designated parking, for less than a mile hike to the falls. Or you can take the Barr St. Trailhead, with much parking (lot was expanded in 2020).
From Barr St. follow Florida State Trail signs toward Lockwood Blvd. It will be about 2 miles. You should follow the orange flashes on the trees/signs. There are many turns and decision points. You will see the Econlockhatchee River from various angles. There are some fire roads/paths (very sandy) that can be used as “short cuts” with fewer roots or obstacles but also less visual interest.
The falls are about 3′. There is a bench nearby but no markers. If you hike too fast you might miss them! Some hikers out that day (a cold Christmas 2020) didn’t stop for them.
Boonie Falls near Oviedo, FL
Econlockhatchee State Forest
Nearly 19 miles of the Econlockhatchee River either borders or passes through the Little Big Econ State Forest. Kayakers and canoeist can put their boats in at the CR 419 bridge and enjoy a very nice 8-mile paddle downstream to the Snow Hill Road boat ramp. You can also continue with the flow for another 11 miles to where the Econlockhatchee River finally meets the St. Johns River. From there it’s less than a mile to the C.S. Lee boat ramp on SR 46. Note: During low water conditions paddlers may have to portage their vessels over large fallen trees. Primitive campsites with fire rings and cooking grills are available for boaters along the Econlockhatchee River. A camping permit must be obtained from the Little Big Econ State Forest office at 1350 Snow Hill Road, Geneva, FL 32732 or by calling 407-971-3500.