Blackwater River State Park: A Natural Wonderland

 If you are looking for a picturesque escape in the heart of the Florida Panhandle, Blackwater River State Park is the perfect destination. Spanning over 5900 acres, this park is situated along the Blackwater River and features stunning natural landscapes that are sure to take your breath away. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast or just looking to spend a relaxing day in nature, Blackwater River State Park has something for everyone.

 

The History of Blackwater River State Park

 

Blackwater River State Park was established in 1967 and has since become one of Florida's most popular state parks. The park is in Santa Rosa County, Florida, and is named after the Blackwater River, which flows through it. The river gets its name from the dark, tannin-stained water, which is caused by the decomposition of leaves and other organic materials in the surrounding forests.

What to Do at Blackwater River State Park

 

Blackwater River State Park is known for its pristine natural beauty and offers a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. One of the most popular activities at the park is tubing down the Blackwater River. The river is shallow and slow-moving, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing float down the water. Canoeing, kayaking, and fishing are also popular activities on the river.

 

The park is also home to over 20 miles of hiking trails that wind through the forests and along the river. The trails range in difficulty from easy to challenging and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Camping is also available at the park, with both tent and RV sites available for overnight stays.

 

Blackwater River State Park is a natural wonderland that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking to explore the outdoors, learn about local wildlife, or simply relax and enjoy the beauty of nature, this park has it all. So why not plan your visit today and experience the magic of Blackwater River State Park for yourself?

Blackwater River State Park is an ideal destination for a day trip from Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach, and Destin.

Address:  7720 Deaton Bridge Rd, Holt, FL 32564

Hours: Daily 8am - 5:30pm

Entrance Fee: Varies, $5 - $10 per vehicle 

Enjoy Your Visit!

       Sherri

Juniper Springs State Park: Exploring the Majestic Beauty of Florida's Natural Springs

Juniper Springs is a beautiful natural area located in the Ocala National Forest in Central Florida. It is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts, with a variety of activities to enjoy, including swimming, hiking, camping, and more. Here are some of the top things to do and see at Juniper Springs:

 

Swim: The highlight of Juniper Springs is the beautiful, clear-water swimming hole, which is fed by the Juniper Springs Run. The water is a constant 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making it a refreshing escape from the Florida heat.

Canoeing and Kayaking: The Juniper Springs Run is also a great spot for canoeing and kayaking. The run is a narrow, winding waterway that meanders through the forest and is home to a variety of wildlife, including otters, turtles, and alligators.

Hiking: Juniper Springs offers several hiking trails that wind through the forest, including the Juniper Springs Trail, which is a 7.3-mile loop that passes by the swimming hole and offers beautiful views of the surrounding wilderness.

Camping: Juniper Springs offers several camping options, including primitive tent camping and RV sites with full hookups. Camping is a great way to experience the beauty of the Ocala National Forest up close and personal.

Historic Millhouse: Visitors to Juniper Springs can also explore the historic millhouse, which was built in the 1930s and served as a hydroelectric power plant. The millhouse is now a museum that offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the area.

Juniper Springs is a beautiful natural area that is perfect for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and experience the beauty of Florida's wilderness. With its clear-water swimming hole, winding waterways, hiking trails, and historic millhouse, Juniper Springs is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Central Florida.

Address:

26701 FL-40, Silver Springs, FL 34488

 

Hours:

8AM -6pm daily

 

Admission:

$9 per person on weekdays

$12 per person on weekends

Happy Travels!

       Sherri

      

Exploring the Natural Beauty of Kelly Park Rock Springs in Florida

Kelly Park Rock Springs is a hidden gem located in the heart of Apopka, Florida. This beautiful park is known for its crystal-clear springs, which flow into a natural lazy river that winds its way through the lush forest.

 One of the main attractions of Kelly Park Rock Springs is tubing down the natural lazy river. Visitors can rent tubes at the park and float down the river, taking in the scenic views and enjoying the cool, refreshing water. The river is relatively shallow, making it safe and fun for all ages.

In addition to tubing, visitors can also swim and snorkel in the springs, which are home to a variety of fish and other aquatic wildlife. The park also features picnic areas, playgrounds, and hiking trails, making it the perfect spot for a fun-filled day in the great outdoors.

Kelly Park Rock Springs is open year-round, and the water temperature remains a constant 68 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a refreshing escape from the Florida heat. Whether you are looking for a relaxing day on the river or an adventure in nature, Kelly Park Rock Springs is a must-visit destination in Florida.

 

Address:

400 E Kelly Park Rd, Apopka, FL 32712

 

Hours:

8am -8pm daily

 

Admission:

1 - 2 people is $3, 3 - 8 people is $5. Busses are $10 for the bus plus $1 per person.

Enjoy your trip!

       Sherri

Exploring the Otherworldly Beauty of Devil's Den in Florida

Florida is so full of amazing places, but this one is in the top few for me! It kind of feels like you are in a place you are not supposed to be, if that makes sense. It is so beautiful, yet a little eerie.

The water is clear, turquoise, and illuminated with light pouring through a hole in the top of the cave. Once in the water, you are surrounded by ancient rock formations with stalactites dating back 33 million years.

The water remains 72 degrees year-round. On cold mornings, steam can be seen rising through the small opening in the cave top. This is why early settlers named it Devil’s Den.

Access to the spring is limited to those who are snorkeling or scuba diving. You must have scuba or snorkel gear to enter the spring area. It can be rented at the visitor center if you don’t have your own.

Hours:

Monday – Thursday   9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Friday – Sunday   8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission Fee:

Monday - Friday: $15.00/person

Saturday, Sunday, & Holidays: $20.00/person

*Admission fee does not include mask, snorkel, and fins which are required!

Check here for information on equipment rentals.

Location:

Devil’s Den is less than a 2 hour drive from Walt Disney World in Orlando or Tampa, Florida.

Address:

Devil's Den Spring

5390 NE 180th Ave

 Williston, FL 32696


Happy Travels!