Turkey Creek Park — Attraction in Niceville

Embark on a Nature Escape at the Turkey Creek Nature Trail, A Hidden Gem in town of Niceville, Florida

Nestled in the heart of Niceville, Florida, the Turkey Creek Nature Trail awaits, inviting nature enthusiasts and wanderers to immerse themselves in the tranquility of its lush surroundings. Recently, my wife and I had the pleasure of discovering this hidden gem, and our experience was nothing short of enchanting.

The journey began as we set foot on the well-crafted boardwalk, weaving seamlessly through the wetlands along the crystal-clear waters of the river. The boardwalk, adorned with dock piers that were strategically placed for floating the river and Observation platforms that beckoned visitors to indulge in the serene beauty of the area. One couldn't help but be captivated by the picturesque scenery, with each step revealing a new vista of nature's wonders.

The abundance of wildlife further enhances the allure of the Turkey Creek Nature Trail. Small critters scurried about, and birds gracefully soared overhead, adding a symphony of natural sounds to our adventure. However, the highlight of our exploration was the fascinating discovery of a beaver's ecosystem. Witnessing the beavers' industrious work in the form of a dammed up a feeder stream, we gained a glimpse into the intricate balance of nature within the marshy landscape.

Our leisurely stroll took approximately an hour, allowing us to traverse the trail from end to end and back again. What struck us most was the sense of community we encountered, even on a weekday during lunch hours. Locals, taking respite from their busy schedules, shared the boardwalk with us, exchanging friendly smiles and creating a warm atmosphere that only enhanced our experience.

The Turkey Creek Nature Trail is not just a haven for nature lovers; it's a testament to thoughtful planning and maintenance. The facilities, from well-maintained boardwalks to conveniently located dock piers, showcase a commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable environment. At the entrance, a pavilion with picnic tables and soda machines proved to be a perfect spot for a midday break, while nearby bathrooms added to the convenience of the visit.

For those in search of a rejuvenating escape into nature, Turkey Creek Nature Trail is a must-visit destination in Niceville, Florida. Whether you're exploring during your lunch break or dedicating an entire day to tranquility, this hidden gem promises an unforgettable experience. So, step away from the hustle and bustle, breathe in the fresh air, and let the wonders of Turkey Creek captivate your senses. Your next adventure awaits in the heart of nature's...

I gave four stars because of the park. We love Turkey Creek, the boardwalk, the nature, the swimming. We like that there's no smoking, no eating, no alcohol, no glass bottles (on the boardwalk), But sadly, no pets either. There is a pavilion for eating, and charcoal grills in front of the pavilion. The water is always a brisk 64 degrees whether its summer or "winter". Unfortunately, there's always bad with any good. The supervisor at Turkey Creek is VERY rude, he is without people skills. I've witnessed many ppl turn away from this beautiful park solely because of him. The employees are polite and easy going, but if you ever have an encounter with "Phil Spencer", you'll under. But BIG PICTURE, the park is amazing. Its natures real life "lazy river". Don't engage with supervision and you'll have a blast.

REVISED, REVISED, REVISED So I wrote the prior review a year and a half ago, maybe two. Since then, there has been A LOT of change....for the worse.

The new city manager did away with the "man power" of the park and it shows greatly. The current posted rules are as follows:

-No food on the board walk -No coolers -No alcohol -No glass bottles -No smoking or vaping

There are other's, but these are the big ones. And due to the decreased number of employees (to save money), EVERY ONE of the above rules are being broken daily.

-I've seen kids drinking alcohol in glass bottles standing IN the creek.

-Whole families hoarding up the docks with coolers full of food and alcohol, smoking weed.

Tell me why I would want to take my family here and expose them to this. It's very unfortunate because this park USE TO BE family friendly. Now it's no better than any other swimming hole in Florida.

The only positive is that former supervisor Phil Spencer is now merely an employee.

In all, what a waste. This park use to be a hidden gem, now its no better than any other "do as you will" park in FL.

VERY...

I have gone to turkey creek since I was a little girl. It's fun and beautiful, what's not to love...unfortunately, the staff have made sure that theres something not to love. The last three times I've gone there I've been rushed out well before the posted closing time. Online the closing time is 7pm saying they clear it out 20 mins prior. The signs at the rear entrance state closing time is 6:30pm, which is new. Today we were asked to "leave now if we're parked at the rear entrance" at 6:05pm! Not please, not hey we'll be closing, just leave now. Annoying but whatever, we start gathering our stuff and walking the long trail out. Upon getting to the exit, the gates to leave the trail are literally chained closed, it hadn't even been 5mins at this time. No one is to be found. Given he said we'd be, "out of luck to get our cars out after he'd locked the gate leading to the road," we began panicking about what would happen. After waiting another 15 mins we were forced to climb over the fence to get to our cars... We had to children with us as well. Right after us two other families and an elderly women had to follow suit. As MANY other people were locked in as well. Upon pulling to the gate, it is locked as well and we have to wait a few minutes for him to roll up on his golf cart and leisurly let us out. I tried to explain to him that the times online and on the sign do not match what he's saying and locking people on the trail is a safety hazard this man shhh'd me and told me it didn't matter and we needed to leave. Really sucks a favorite place is ruined by angry bitter...