Does Florida have waterfalls? Yes, and even a park named for them

Florida may be known for its shores, swamps and springs but did you know it hosts a variety of waterfalls?

While they're not common, residents can come across several natural and manmade falls while exploring Florida's state parks.

Here's what to know about the hidden gems sprinkled throughout the state and where you should go chasing waterfalls.

Does Florida have natural waterfalls?

With Florida being the flattest state in the country, it’s not hard to believe that many people think there are no natural waterfalls here at all. While there aren't the towering waterfalls you can find in many other parts of the country, there are some breathtaking natural waterfalls to be found throughout the state.

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How many waterfalls are found in Florida?

According to the World Waterfall Database, there are six natural waterfalls in the state:

• Big Shoals, White Springs

• Devil's Millhopper Falls, Gainesville

• Falling Creek Falls, Lake City

• Falling Waters, Chipley

• Look and Tremble Falls, Altha

• Steinhatchee Falls, Steinhatchee

Outside of the database, residents also may recognize these manmade waterfalls:

• Boonie Falls, Oviedo

• Rainbow Springs, Dunnellon

• Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens, Del Rey Beach

What is the largest waterfall in Florida?

Florida’s highest waterfall is located at Falling Waters State Park in Chipley.

Visitors can hike up two miles to the deck, where they can observe the 100-foot-deep, 20-foot-wide cylindrical sinkhole that causes a rush of water that drops 73 feet. The water's final destination is unknown.

The waterfall is considered quite the phenomenon. According to travel blog Morton's on the Move, the sinkhole formed when acidic rainwater flowed down the limestone. While there are natural sinkholes in various places across Florida, this is the only one that has created a waterfall.

The park is open 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a week and the cost is $5 per vehicle to visit.

Why does Florida have so few waterfalls?

Experts for travel guide Backroad Planet explain that the state is basically flat, without many geological features that allow waterfalls to occur. Much of Florida's elevation is less than 12 feet, including many populated areas such as Miami which are located on the coast.

This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Florida is home to several waterfalls. Here's where they are located