High bluffs overlooking the Apalachicola River make Torreya one of Florida's most scenic places. The park is named for an extremely rare species of Torreya tree that only grows on the bluffs along the Apalachicola River.

A Confederate battery of three paired gun emplacements located in the present-day park property protected this vital waterway. Consisting of six heavy cannons ranging in size from 18-pounders to 32-pounders mounted on raised firing platforms and linked by communication trenches, this battery was constructed on Battery Bluff (also known as Neal's Bluff ) in 1863.

The remains of the battery earthworks and connecting trenches are located along the park's bluff walking trail, and the six gun emplacements are marked with signage. Another sign at the site provides a brief history of the Confederate battery. The Gregory House, built in 1849, was originally located on the western bank of the river at Ocheesee Landing. Some of the sailors injured by the boiler explosion on the Confederate gunboat CSS Chattahoochee in May 1863 were cared for at the house. In 1935, the Gregory House was dismantled, moved across the river and reconstructed at this site by the New Deal's Civilian Conservation Corps.

The house contains period furnishings, including the Civil War era trunk of Captain William T. Gregory, who was a delegate to the Florida Secession Convention and then served in the 5th Florida Infantry. Captain Gregory was badly wounded at the Battle of Antietam (Sharpsburg), Maryland in September 1862.

After spending nearly one month in a military hospital, he was given a medical furlough to return home and died at his residence in December 1862.

Torreya is popular for camping, hiking, and picnicking. Bird-watching is also a popular activity. Over 100 species of birds have been spotted in the park. Forests of hardwood trees provide the finest display of fall color found in Florida.

www.floridastateparks.org/torreya

Information Provided by Florida Department of State.