The coast of Walton County is home to rare coastal dune lakes, an ecosystem that only exists in Florida and in Australia and Africa, and you’ll find them at Deer Lake State Park.
As the freshwater lakes become too full, they naturally spill over and flow into the Gulf of Mexico. At that time seawater seeps back into the lakes, creating a unique, biodiverse ecosystem. There are 17 dune lakes along CR 30A.
At Deer Lake State Park, the coastal flatwoods ecosystem hosts rare pitcher plants, Gulf Coast lupine and stately magnolias. Dune crossovers provide sweeping views of tall sand dunes.
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Overview
Location: Alys Beach
Length: 0.6 miles
Lat-Long: 30.302900, -86.074800
Type: Round-trip
Fees / Permits: State park entrance fee
Difficulty: Easy
Bug factor: Low
Restroom: Yes
Directions
Along CR 30A between Rosemary Beach and Grayton Beach in Walton County.
Hike Details
A simple 0.3 mile (each way) dune crossover boardwalk from the parking area to the beach gives you a sweeping view of Deer Lake and its outflows to the Gulf of Mexico. Walk west on the beach for a half mile to explore the outflow areas.
