The Big Bend of Florida is an informal geographic region in North Florida where the Florida Panhandle transitions into the Florida Peninsula, located south and east of Tallahassee. It is characterized by vast woodlands, marshlands, and a low population density compared to much of the state
. Geographically, the Big Bend region stretches along the Gulf Coast from the Apalachicola River or Ochlockonee River area eastward to Anclote Key, covering parts of several counties including Wakulla, Jefferson, Taylor, Dixie, Levy, Citrus, Hernando, and Pasco. The coastal area, known as the Big Bend Coast, is notable for its marshy coastline without barrier islands, extensive salt marshes, mangrove forests, seagrass meadows, oyster reefs, and numerous freshwater springs. The region features drowned karst topography with sinkholes, subterranean rivers, and underwater caves such as the Wakulla-Leon Sinks cave system
. The Big Bend Coast extends about 350 kilometers (220 miles) along the Gulf of Mexico and is divided into two parts: Big Bend Proper (north) and the Springs Coast (south). The area is geologically unique with little sand or mud, instead having an irregular bedrock surface formed by karst processes. It includes important rivers like the Suwannee, St. Marks, and Withlacoochee, many of which have subterranean stretches
. Ecologically, the Big Bend region is rich in biodiversity, supporting habitats for species such as Gulf sturgeon, West Indian manatees, and various bird species. It includes protected areas like the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge and the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge. The region also contains the largest single spring in the U.S., the Alapaha Rise, and is part of the Big Bend Seagrasses Aquatic Preserve, which is important for marine life
. In summary, the Big Bend of Florida is a largely undeveloped, ecologically significant coastal and inland region known for its marshlands, karst geology, diverse wildlife, and sparse human population along the Gulf Coast where the Panhandle meets the Peninsula
