Did you know that Bulow Plantation was once the largest sugar plantation in East Florida, producing over 35,000 kg (77,000 lbs) of sugar annually before being destroyed during the Second Seminole War in 1836? Today, the weathered coquina stone ruins stand as silent witnesses to Florida’s tumultuous frontier history, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park is located at 3501 Old Kings Road, Flagler Beach, Florida. The park sits approximately 10 km (6.2 mi) north of Ormond Beach and about 40 km (25 mi) north of Daytona Beach.
If you’re flying in, the nearest major airports are Daytona Beach International Airport (30 km/18.6 mi) and Jacksonville International Airport (130 km/80.8 mi). From either airport, renting a car is the most convenient way to reach the park as there is no public transportation directly to the site.
From Daytona Beach:
- Take I-95 North to Exit 278 (Old Dixie Highway)
- Turn right onto Old Dixie Highway
- Continue for about 5 km (3.1 mi)
- Turn left onto Old Kings Road
- The park entrance will be on your right after 3 km (1.9 mi)
From Jacksonville:
- Take I-95 South to Exit 284 (FL-100)
- Turn left onto FL-100 East
- After 8 km (5 mi), turn right onto Old Kings Road
- Continue for 6.5 km (4 mi)
- The park entrance will be on your left
The park is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday and Thursday through Sunday. It’s closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so plan your visit accordingly. Entrance fees are $4 per vehicle (limit 8 people) or $2 for pedestrians and cyclists, payable via an honor box system at the entrance.
Best Time to Visit Bulow Plantation Ruins
Florida’s climate plays a significant role in determining the best time to visit the park. The ruins are most enjoyable during certain seasons when the weather is most accommodating for outdoor exploration.
Recommended Times to Visit
- Late October to April – Mild temperatures between 15-24°C (59-75°F) and lower humidity make for comfortable exploration
- Early morning visits (9-11 a.m.) during summer months to avoid afternoon heat and thunderstorms
- Weekdays – Fewer visitors means more peaceful exploration of the ruins
- January-February – Peak bird watching season along Bulow Creek
Times to Avoid
- June-September afternoons – High temperatures 32-35°C (90-95°F) with extreme humidity
- Summer thunderstorm season – Frequent afternoon storms from June through September
- Hurricane season peak – September-October has highest tropical storm risk
- Holiday weekends – Can be crowded with limited parking
Fall and winter months offer the most pleasant conditions for exploring the ruins and hiking the trails. The cooler temperatures make walking through the historic site more comfortable, and the lower humidity means fewer insects. Spring brings beautiful wildflowers to the park’s natural areas, though temperatures begin to climb by late April.
Weather Tip: Florida’s weather can change quickly. Even during the dry season (October-May), it’s wise to bring rain gear and sun protection. The ruins offer limited shade, so hats, sunscreen, and water are essential year-round.
Getting Around Locally
Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park covers 150 acres of land with various points of interest connected by trails and pathways. Understanding your options for getting around will help you make the most of your visit.
By Foot
The primary way to explore the ruins is on foot. A scenic 0.8 km (0.5 mi) walking trail leads visitors from the parking area to the sugar mill ruins. The trail is mostly flat and well-maintained, making it accessible for most visitors.
By Bicycle
Bicycles are permitted on the park’s main road and designated trails. The 11.2 km (7 mi) Bulow Woods Trail connects the park to Bulow Creek State Park and is suitable for mountain bikes or hybrid bicycles.
By Boat
Bulow Creek is accessible via a boat ramp within the park. Canoes and kayaks are ideal for exploring the creek, which is part of the state-designated canoe trail system. The waterway offers a unique perspective of the historic area.
The main loop drive through the park is one-way and provides access to the picnic area, boat ramp, and trailheads. For those with mobility concerns, you can drive closer to the ruins, though you’ll still need to walk a short distance on the paved pathway to reach the main sugar mill site.
Where to Stay
While there are no accommodations within Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park itself, several lodging options are available in the surrounding areas of Flagler Beach, Ormond Beach, and Palm Coast.
Flagler Beach (5-10 km/3-6 mi)
This charming beach town offers oceanfront hotels, motels, and vacation rentals with easy access to both the plantation ruins and beautiful Atlantic beaches.
- Beachfront hotels with ocean views
- Cozy bed and breakfasts
- Vacation home rentals for families
Ormond Beach (15-20 km/9-12 mi)
A bit further south, Ormond Beach provides more accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly motels.
- Historic hotels and inns
- Chain hotels with amenities
- Riverside lodging options
Palm Coast (15-20 km/9-12 mi)
To the north, Palm Coast offers several resorts and hotels in a more developed setting with additional amenities.
- Golf resorts and spas
- Waterfront condos
- Family-friendly hotels
For nature enthusiasts, camping is available at nearby Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area (15 km/9.3 mi south) and North Peninsula State Park (20 km/12.4 mi northeast). Both offer campsites with electrical hookups and access to beaches and natural areas.
Dining & Local Cuisine
While there are no dining facilities within Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park, the surrounding communities offer a variety of restaurants featuring fresh seafood and local Florida flavors.
Flagler Beach Dining
This beachside community is known for casual seafood restaurants with ocean views and relaxed atmospheres.
- Fresh-caught fish and shrimp
- Beachfront cafes and tiki bars
- Family-owned restaurants
Ormond Beach Options
Just a short drive south, Ormond Beach offers more diverse dining choices, from upscale restaurants to casual eateries.
- Historic riverfront dining
- International cuisine options
- Farm-to-table restaurants
Local Specialties
Don’t miss these Florida specialties available at restaurants throughout the area.
- Smoked mullet and fish dip
- Fresh Mayport shrimp
- Datil pepper sauces (local specialty)
- Florida citrus-infused dishes
For a picnic at the park, stop by one of the local markets in Flagler Beach or Ormond Beach to pick up supplies. The park has designated picnic areas with tables near the parking lot, offering a pleasant spot to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
Picnic Tip: Pack a cooler with drinks and snacks for your visit, as there are no food vendors or vending machines within the park. The picnic facilities are first-come, first-served and cannot be reserved.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park offers a fascinating blend of history and nature. Here are the must-see attractions and activities during your visit.
Historic Ruins
Sugar Mill Ruins
The centerpiece of the park is the impressive coquina stone ruins of the sugar mill. Built in the early 1830s, these structures once housed the steam-powered machinery used to process sugar cane. Today, the weathered walls stand as a testament to Florida’s plantation era.
A paved walkway with interpretive signs guides visitors through the ruins, explaining the sugar-making process and the significance of each structure. Look for the massive arches that once supported the mill’s operations and the towering chimney that remains largely intact.
Nature Experiences
Bulow Creek
The park includes access to scenic Bulow Creek, a designated state canoe trail. Launch your canoe or kayak from the boat ramp and paddle through a pristine coastal ecosystem lined with ancient live oaks draped in Spanish moss.
The creek is home to various wildlife, including wading birds, turtles, and occasionally manatees. Fishing is permitted from the dock or by boat, with common catches including bass, bream, and mullet.
Trails and Pathways
Bulow Woods Trail
This 11.2 km (7 mi) trail connects the park to Bulow Creek State Park. Hiking through stands of massive live oak trees, some over 400 years old, offers a glimpse into what Florida looked like centuries ago.
Interpretive Loop Trail
A shorter 0.8 km (0.5 mi) loop takes visitors through the main plantation area, with signs explaining the history of the Bulow family and their once-prosperous plantation.
Plantation Remains
Beyond the sugar mill, look for the foundations of the plantation house, slave cabins, spring house, and well sites that offer insights into plantation life in the early 19th century.
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
While Bulow Plantation Ruins itself is a living museum, there are additional cultural and historical sites in the surrounding area that complement your visit.
At the Park
Interpretive Center
The park’s small but informative interpretive center houses artifacts recovered from archaeological excavations at the plantation site. Displays explain the history of the Bulow family, the plantation’s operations, and its ultimate destruction during the Second Seminole War.
Historical photographs, maps, and a scale model of the original plantation help visitors visualize what BulowVille looked like during its heyday in the 1830s.
Nearby Cultural Attractions
Flagler Beach Historical Museum
Located 10 km (6.2 mi) from the park, this small museum chronicles the history of Flagler County from prehistoric times through the present day, with exhibits on early settlers, including the Bulow family.
Florida Agricultural Museum
About 15 km (9.3 mi) north in Palm Coast, this living history museum showcases Florida’s agricultural heritage with historic buildings, heritage livestock breeds, and demonstrations of traditional farming techniques.
Ormond Beach Historical Society
Located 15 km (9.3 mi) south, the society offers walking tours of historic Ormond Beach and maintains several historic properties that provide context for the plantation era.
Annual Events
Several events throughout the year celebrate the area’s rich history and natural beauty:
- Plantation Days (November) – Historical reenactments and demonstrations of 19th-century plantation life
- Florida Heritage Days (February) – Cultural festival celebrating Florida’s diverse heritage
- Earth Day Celebration (April) – Environmental education programs and guided nature walks
- Native American Heritage Month (November) – Programs highlighting Seminole history and culture
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
The natural setting of Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park provides numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation and wildlife observation.
Water Activities
Kayaking & Canoeing
Bulow Creek offers one of the most scenic paddling experiences in northeast Florida. The designated state canoe trail winds through pristine coastal wetlands, offering chances to spot wildlife in their natural habitat.
The park has a boat ramp suitable for canoes, kayaks, and small motorboats. For those without their own equipment, rentals are available in nearby Flagler Beach and Ormond Beach.
Wildlife Watching
Birding
The park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 100 species recorded. Look for wading birds like great blue herons and white ibis along the creek, and woodpeckers, owls, and migratory songbirds in the forest canopy.
Reptiles & Amphibians
Turtles bask on logs along Bulow Creek, while various frogs and lizards inhabit the woodland areas. Alligators can occasionally be spotted in the creek, especially during warmer months.
Mammals
White-tailed deer, raccoons, opossums, and armadillos make their home in the park. Dawn and dusk offer the best chances for mammal sightings along the trails.
Fishing
Anglers can try their luck from the fishing dock or by boat on Bulow Creek. Common catches include largemouth bass, bream, catfish, and mullet. A Florida freshwater fishing license is required and can be purchased online or at local bait shops.
Outdoor Tip: Bring binoculars, insect repellent, sunscreen, and plenty of water for any outdoor activities. The Florida sun can be intense, and mosquitoes are common, especially near the creek and during warmer months.
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Ensuring a safe and respectful visit to Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park enhances the experience for everyone. Here are important guidelines to follow.
Park Safety
- Stay on designated trails and pathways
- Do not climb on or remove material from the ruins
- Watch for uneven surfaces and exposed roots on trails
- Be aware of wildlife, including alligators near the creek
- Check for ticks after hiking, especially in warmer months
Weather Considerations
- Florida’s afternoon thunderstorms can develop quickly in summer
- Seek shelter immediately if lightning is present
- Stay hydrated and use sun protection year-round
- Monitor weather forecasts during hurricane season (June-November)
Visitor Etiquette
- Respect the site’s historical significance
- Keep noise levels down to preserve the peaceful atmosphere
- Pack out all trash (limited receptacles available)
- Keep pets leashed and clean up after them
- Use designated picnic areas only
Cultural Sensitivity
Bulow Plantation Ruins has a complex history that includes the labor of enslaved people and conflicts with Native Americans. The site represents different historical perspectives, and visitors should approach this heritage with respect and an open mind to learning about all aspects of Florida’s past.
Important: The ruins are protected by state and federal law. Removing artifacts or damaging structures is prohibited and punishable by fine or imprisonment. If you find an artifact, leave it in place and notify park staff.
Practical Travel Tips
Make the most of your visit to Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park with these helpful tips and essential information.
Park Details
- Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday and Thursday through Sunday
- Closed: Tuesdays and Wednesdays
- Entrance Fee: $4 per vehicle (up to 8 people)
- Payment: Cash only (exact change) via honor box
- Contact: 386-517-2084
Facilities
- Restrooms near the parking area
- Picnic tables and pavilion
- Boat ramp for small watercraft
- Interpretive center with exhibits
- Limited parking (no RV hookups)
What to Bring
- Water bottles (no drinking fountains available)
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Camera for capturing the ruins
- Cash for entrance fee
Accessibility Information
The main path to the sugar mill ruins is paved and relatively flat, making it accessible for visitors with mobility challenges. The interpretive center and restrooms are also accessible. However, some of the nature trails and areas around the creek may be difficult to navigate for those with limited mobility.
Nearby Services
Flagler Beach (10 km/6.2 mi)
- Gas stations and convenience stores
- Pharmacies and medical facilities
- Grocery stores for picnic supplies
- ATMs and banking services
Ormond Beach (15 km/9.3 mi)
- Full-service hospitals
- Shopping centers and malls
- Auto repair services
- Larger grocery stores and markets
Planning Tip: Allow at least 2 hours to fully explore the ruins and interpretive center. If you plan to hike the trails or paddle on Bulow Creek, consider dedicating a half or full day to your visit.
Experience Florida’s Forgotten History
Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park offers a unique window into Florida’s past, where the rise and fall of sugar plantations shaped the landscape and history of the region. As you walk among the weathered coquina walls and towering chimney of the sugar mill, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the complex stories that make up Florida’s rich heritage.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape off the beaten path, this hidden gem delivers an authentic Florida experience away from the state’s more crowded attractions. The combination of historical significance and natural beauty makes Bulow Plantation Ruins a memorable addition to any Florida itinerary.
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