Florida Guide > State Parks
BLACKWATER RIVER
Blackwater River State Park is found in Holt off Highway 90. The park opened in 1968 after a year of preparation In 1981 they added another 230 acres to the park making a grand total of 590 acres of natural Florida country for us all to enjoy.
It has one of the purest sand bottom rivers in the world and it starts in Alabama and ends in the Blackwater Basin.
Largely swamp, scrub and forest this park has a dramatic line of Atlantic white cedars bordering the river and indeed it has one of the oldest and largest examples of this cedar in the whole of America See if you can spot it and if you cannot just ask a ranger.
Among the shrubs are turkey oak, persimmon, dogwood and sweet gum. The ground cover is particularly dense and includes palmetto, wildblue and wax myrtle.
In the flood plain and river areas you will find fine examples of tupelo, hickory, sycamore and water lilies. Coontail and spatter dock can be seen in these areas also.
The river has natural levees and oxbows that create an area that is conducive to wide variety and amount of vegetation.
Early spring sees the blueberries and jasmine flowering so that makes it a good time to visit for the injection of colour they bring.
Among the animals you will see are turkeys, bob cats, deer and rather less common are river otter and kites Take your binoculors for this purpose and a camera ready for that great photo opportunity.
You can swim, canoe. kayak and fish in these clear waters. Plus my favourite thing where it is allowed; tubing. This is such a relaxing way to see the park.
Fishing is allowed, ask the park ranger for the best places and do not forget that you will need a license; these are available from sports shops, large Walmarts and also on lime.
Take a picnic with you as there is a good picnic area near the beach. shaded pavilions. barbecues, picnic tables and loos are provided for you comfort.
Of course the river is perfect for kayaks and canoes; since you are unlikely to have packed one of these in your suitcase there is a rental nearby.
Blackwater Lake Rental will meet you and take you to the launch point. Open from 8am til 6pm 7 days a week they are located 8 miles from the I10 (exit 31) and it is best to phone ahead Tel 850 623 0235.
In the warmer months, go armed with sun screen a hat and insect repellant.
Blackwater River State Park
7720 Deaton Bridge Road
Holt
Florida
32564
Tel 850 983 5363
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