Visitors will find outstanding freshwater fishing with common species such as largemouth bass, striped bass, speckled perch, bream and catfish being caught off the park's boardwalk or dock. Bring your canoe or kayak to launch and explore the roughly 10,000 acre Lake Talquin. The park features a picnic area with tables and grills along with a pavilion that is perfect for family reunions, private parties and weddings.
Enjoy a leisurely walk on the interpretive trail past ravine systems to a bluff overlooking Lake Talquin. The park is an excellent place for wildlife viewing and bird watching.
Wildlife roaming the park includes deer, squirrel, turkey and the occasional bear. Birders are likely to spot bald eagles and osprey soaring high above the lake.
Experiences
Birding
Visitors are likely to spot bald eagles and ospreys soaring high above the trees. The occassional woodstork can be seen flying over head. Your are likely to see great blue herons, great and snowy egrets while enjoying the boardwalk along Lake Talquin.
Paddling
Bring your canoe or kayak to explore the roughly 10,000-acre lake. Jack Vause landing is operated by Leon County and is located on Jack Vause landing Rd. The boat launch is approximately 500 yds. to the north of Lake Talquin State Park entrance. There is no fee to use the county boat launch. After you are done exploring the lake, come visit Lake Talquin State Park.
Fishing
There is a small dock that provides excellent access to freshwater fishing with common species such as largemouth bass, striped bass, speckled perch, bream and catfish. Lake Talquin State Park also has a 650 ft. fishing/viewing boardwalk along the shores of Lake Talquin.
All fishing within the park must conform to regulations concerning size, number, method of capture and season. A fishing license may be required. More information is available at the Florida Wildlife Commission’s Fishing in Florida.
Hiking
Enjoy the 1.2-mile nature trail that winds gently through the upland forest, offering a closer look at the steephead ravine system. In 2011, a .33-mile spur trail was completed as an Eagle Scout project by Matt Willis and Scout Troop 114. This spur trail goes to a beautiful bluff overlooking Lake Talquin.
Picnicking
Lake Talquin State Park is an excellent location for private parties, family reunions, weddings and receptions. The picnic pavilion, with a view of the lake in the background, seats approximately 100 people. To the side of the pavilion, under a separate roof, are two barbecue pits that are made of brick and are raised for convenience and ease during cooking. Normal operating hours are from 8:00am - sundown. However, we are pleased to make this facility available for your after-hours occasions. Reservations may be made two weeks in advance of date needed, and is reserved on a first-come, first-serve basis. Due to the popularity of this facility, we suggest you call for a reservation as soon as possible. Please contact the park office at (850) 487-7989 to reserve this facility.
Wildlife Viewing
Deer, squirrel and wild turkey are seen frequently in the park.
