Meet the Ancient Cypress That’s Been Throwing Shade for Centuries
If you’ve ever wanted to meet someone older than your entire family tree combined, may I introduce you to Old Methuselah—a bald cypress so ancient, he makes colonial landmarks look like toddlers. Nestled in the lush canopy of DeLeon Springs State Park, this gnarled giant has been standing tall (and slightly hollow) for over a thousand years.
We stumbled upon Old Methuselah at DeLeon Springs State Park while exploring the park’s sugar mill ruins, scenic boardwalks, and swampy serenity. Between the interpretive signs, rusted gears, and a few very good dogs, this place delivered history, nature, and unexpected charm in equal measure.
Why He’s a Big Deal
Old Methuselah wasn’t just spared by loggers in the 1930s because of his hollow trunk—he was respected. With a 35-foot circumference and a height of 100 feet, he’s a living monument to Florida’s wild past. And yes, he’s still throwing shade (literally and figuratively).
Some claim he’s over a thousand years old, earning the nickname “Methuselah” after the famously long-lived biblical figure. Whether that age is folklore or forestry science, one thing’s for sure: this tree’s been around a while.
History in the Roots, Sass in the Soil
DeLeon Springs isn’t just about the tree—it’s also home to the remnants of a once-thriving 1800s sugar mill. Think gears, boilers, and interpretive signs galore. And of course, the Civilian Conservation Corps left its mark in the 1930s, constructing much of the infrastructure visitors still enjoy today.
You’ll find yourself wandering past crumbling ruins, under moss-draped limbs, and along boardwalks with signs that basically whisper, “Don’t feed the wildlife… or the ghosts of sugar barons.”
🖼️ The Gallery: A Walk Through Time (With Dogs)
We found Old Methuselah at DeLeon Springs State Park during our Michigan-Bound Road Trip, and the detour was worth every minute.”
Know Before You Go to
Location: DeLeon Springs State Park, Florida
Tree Location: Old Methuselah is along the boardwalk trail near the spring’s edge. It’s well-marked with signage.
Entry Fee: Yes, check the Park Website for current pricing
Other Highlights: Historic sugar mill ruins, CCC-era buildings, and yes… pancakes (seriously, there’s a make-your-own pancake spot here)
Accessibility: Trails and interpretive areas are mostly wheelchair- and stroller-friendly
Final Thoughts on Old Methuselah – DeLeon Springs State Park
If you’re even vaguely into trees, history, ruins, or hanging out with suspiciously intelligent squirrels, then Old Methuselah at DeLeon Springs State Park should absolutely be on your list. This place has roots—literally and figuratively—and it’s just begging to be part of your next quirky road trip.
For more offbeat stops and Florida finds, check out my growing list of Things To Do In Florida—from sinkholes to sugar mills and beyond.