Blackwater RiverBrochure |
Brochure of Blackwater River State Park in Florida. Published by Florida State Parks.
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BLACKWATER RIVER
STATE PARK
HISTORY AND NATURE
Blackwater River State Park was established
in 1967 and opened in 1968 with 360 acres. In
1981 an additional 230 acres were acquired from
the Division of Forestry.
Blackwater River State Park has one recorded
archaeological site–an unnamed stone scatter,
which may be as old as 10,000 years or as
recent as a few hundred years old. Since rivers
have been major transportation corridors in
Florida for more than 10,000 years, it is probable
that human activity existed here long ago.
The park and adjoining Blackwater River
State Forest are known for their historic trams,
sawmills and timber industry, especially near Milton.
It is interesting to note the geographical distribution
of mills along the streams and watersheds.
7720 Deaton Bridge Road
Holt, FL 32564
850-983-5363
PARK GUIDELINES
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When mills were at peak operation, everyone
made trips to mills. The earliest roads led to
mills and as the community grew, commercial
ventures such as the blacksmith shop, livery and
general store would spring up nearby.
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Atlantic white cedars line the river. In 1982, one
of the park’s cedars was designated Florida
Champion, the largest of its species. The park
was also designated a Registered State Natural
Feature in 1980 for its “exceptional value in
illustrating the natural history of Florida.”
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White-tailed deer, bobcats and turkeys are
common, while river otters and alligators are
occasionally seen. A variety of birds live here,
including red headed and pileated woodpeckers,
hawks, warblers and Mississippi kites.
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Hours are 8 a.m. until sunset, 365 days a year.
An entrance fee is required. Additional user fees
may apply.
All plants, animals and park property are
protected. Collection, destruction or disturbance
is prohibited.
Pets are permitted in designated areas only. Pets
must be kept on a handheld leash no longer
than six feet and well-behaved at all times.
Fishing, boating and ground fires are allowed in
designated areas only. A Florida fishing licences
is require.. Fireworks and hunting are prohibited
in all Florida state parks.
Fireworks and hunting are prohibited.
Alcoholic beverage consumption is allowed in
designated areas only.
Become a volunteer. Inquire at the ranger station.
For camping information, contact
Reserve America at 800-326-3521 or
TDD 888-433-0287 or visit ReserveAmerica.com.
Florida state parks are committed to providing
equal access for visitors to all facilities and
programs. If you need assistance to enable your
participation, please contact staff at any
ranger station or call 850-245-3076 (Voice)
or 711 (Florida Relay Service).
Visit us online at
FloridaStateParks.org
Follow us on social media
FloridaStateParks.org
#FLStateParks
BLACKWATER
RIVER
STATE PARK
Immerse yourself in 600 acres of
Florida’s inland ecological wonders
Swim, canoe or tube in the cool waters of the
Blackwater-all great family activities. Canoes may be
rented from outfitters in the area. Three-day use areas
with restrooms, outdoor showers and picnic tables are
within short walking distance of the beaches.
W
d
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oa
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Ranger
Station
Boat Ramp Road
Florida Trail
The river usually flows 2-3 miles per hour with an
average depth of 2.5 feet. Depending on rainfall,
water levels can fluctuate rapidly. Please contact
the ranger station for updated water levels.
Juniper
Lake Trail
Visitors may hike on either of two trails–the
Chain of Lakes Nature Trail in the park’s southeast
corner near Deaton Bridge, or Juniper Lake
Nature Trail that extends from the campground
and pavilions. On both trails visitors can view
small crescent-shaped lakes called oxbows that
are created when the river changes course.
Situated among longleaf pines are two
campground loops with 30 campsites that offer
water, electricity, sewer, picnic tables and a
playground. Sites accommodate camping from
tents to 40-foot RVs. A facility in the center of the
two camping loops has hot showers and clean
restrooms. A dump station is located on the
campground entrance road. Juniper Lake Nature
Trail leads from the campground down to the
water for swimming and relaxing.
Bri
dg
Welcome to Blackwater River State Park. The
Blackwater River, one of the most pristine rivers
in the nation, provides the perfect setting for this
590-acre park. The Blackwater’s sandy bottom,
white beaches and large sandbars are a sharp
contrast to the dark tannic water that gives the
river its name. Designated a Florida Canoe Trail,
the river and the park are part of the statewide
system of greenways and trails.
Blackwater River State Park
De
ato
n
EXPERIENCES AND AMENITIES
Blackwater River
Camping
Canoeing
Fishing
Chain of Lakes Nature Trail
Hiking
Parking
Pets Overnight
Picnicking
Playground
Directions
From I-10 East: take exit 31; turn left on Hwy.
87; then right on Hwy. 90. Turn left on Deaton
Bridge Road in Harold - it is 3 miles to the park.
From I-10 West: take exit 45; turn right; then left
on Hwy. 90 in Holt. Turn right on Deaton Bridge
Road in Harold - it is 3 miles to the park.
Restrooms
Swimming
Tubing
Wildlife Viewing
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