The Santa Fe River at O'Leno State Park
The river that runs through O'Leno State Park is the Santa Fe River.
This unique waterway, distinctive among North Florida's many rivers, exhibits a fascinating hydrological phenomenon within the park's boundaries. Rather than flowing continuously above ground, the Santa Fe River disappears underground into an intricate cave system at a point known as the "River Sink" within O'Leno State Park.
Unique Characteristics of the Santa Fe River's Flow
The underground journey of the Santa Fe River is a remarkable natural feature. After traversing through its subterranean passages, the river re-emerges to the surface several miles downstream in River Rise Preserve State Park. This makes O'Leno State Park a crucial location to observe one of Florida's most intriguing hydrological cycles, where a river flows both above and below ground.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| River Name | Santa Fe River |
| Flow within Park | Flows underground |
| Disappears At | O'Leno State Park (River Sink) |
| Re-emerges At | River Rise Preserve State Park |
| System Involved | Intricate cave system |
Visitors to O'Leno State Park can explore the area around the River Sink, where the river's disappearance is a notable natural wonder, showcasing the dynamic geology of North Florida.
