Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park

Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park preserves the homestead and working farm of one of Florida's most celebrated authors. Located in the remote scrub landscape of Cross Creek, the park honors the life and legacy of Rawlings, who won the Pulitzer Prize for her novel The Yearling, which was set in this very region. The park offers guided tours of the author's vintage 1920s farmhouse, where visitors can step into the world that inspired her most famous works and learn about her unconventional life as a writer in rural Florida.

The property encompasses Rawlings' home, surrounding acreage, and period outbuildings that reflect early 20th-century Cracker homestead life. Visitors can explore the house filled with original furnishings and personal artifacts, gaining insight into how the author lived and worked while documenting the unique culture of her adopted Florida home. The farm setting provides an authentic backdrop for understanding both Rawlings' creative process and the traditional agricultural practices of the era.

This intimate historic site attracts literary enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone interested in Florida's cultural heritage. The park offers a quieter, more contemplative experience than typical state parks, making it ideal for visitors seeking a deeper connection to Florida's literary and historical significance. Guided tours are essential for experiencing the site fully and hearing the stories that shaped Rawlings' remarkable writing career.

The park sits within Florida's scrub landscape, featuring native vegetation including saw palmettos, sand pines, and live oaks typical of the region's upland habitat. Wildlife commonly observed includes deer, wild turkeys, Florida scrub-jays, and various native birds. The surrounding Cross Creek area supports diverse plant and animal life adapted to sandy soils and periodic drought conditions characteristic of North Florida's interior.

• Visit during cooler months (October through April) to comfortably explore the grounds and house. • Arrive early, as the park has limited capacity and operates by guided tour only. • Tours last approximately one hour; check the park's website or call ahead for current tour schedules and availability. • Bring sunscreen and insect repellent, especially during warmer months. • The rural location requires a car; there is no public transportation to the park.