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Florida
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Florida State Parks

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USA Parks
Florida
Northwest Region
Blackwater River State Park
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Blackwater River State Park The Boardwalk © Sarah Katherine Smith
The boardwalk on the Sweetwater trail
Blackwater River State Park Gladey © Sarah Katherine Smith
Bear Lake
Blackwater River State Park The Bridge © Sarah Katherine Smith
The suspension bridge on the Sweetwater Trail. Taken Spring of 2011
Blackwater River State Park The Dock © Sarah Katherine Smith
The dock on the Bear Lake camping ground
Blackwater River State Park The Fallen © Sarah Katherine Smith
Bear Lake camping ground
Blackwater River State Park The Mill © Sarah Katherine Smith
The old mill on the Sweetwater trail next to the Spring taken in Spring of 2011
Blackwater River State Park The Lake © Sarah Katherine Smith
Bear Lake on the camping ground
Blackwater River State Park © Daniel Ewert
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BLACKWATER RIVER STATE PARK
BLACKWATER RIVER STATE PARK
7720 Deaton Bridge Rd
Holt, Florida   32564
(lat:30.712 lon:-86.8786) map location

Phone: (850) 983-5363
Reservations: 850-983-5363
A favorite destination for canoeists and kayakers, Blackwater River offers opportunities for a variety of outdoor recreation. The river is one of the purest sandbottom rivers in the nation, making this park a popular place for swimming, fishing, camping, and paddling. Shaded campsites are just a short walk from the river, and visitors can enjoy a picnic at a pavilion overlooking the river. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy strolling along trails through undisturbed natural communities. In 1980 the park was certified as a Registered State Natural Feature for possessing exceptional value in illustrating the natural history of Florida. Atlantic white cedars line the river and one of them was recognized in 1982 as a Florida Champion tree, one of the largest and oldest of its species. Located 15 miles northeast of Milton, off U.S. 90.
History of the Area
Blackwater River State Park was established in 1967. The park opened to the public on November 22, 1968 and consisted of 360 acres. On July 17, 1981, the park acquired 230 acres from the Division of Forestry. Today, the park contains 590 acres of upland pine forests, swamps, and scrubby ridges and is surrounded by the Blackwater River State Forest. Atlantic white cedars line the river and the 1982 Florida Champion, recognized as the largest of its species, is found within the park. The park was also certified as an official Registered State Natural Feature in 1980 for possessing “exceptional value in illustrating the natural history of Florida”.
Passes
Annual Entrance Passes can be purchased at all park ranger stations and museums. If you require immediate use of your pass, this is the best option. Passes can be purchased during regular business hours 365 days a year. Please call the park in advance to ensure availability. Those who are eligible for discounted or free passes may use this method to receive their pass. Annual Entrance Passes may be purchased online by visiting the FLORIDA STATE PARKS ANNUALENTRANCE PASSES web page.
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
Day-UseFishingyes
 Hiking Trailyes
 Bike Trailsyes
 Swimming Beachyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingFull Hookup Sitesyes
Camping
This 590-acre park offers 30 campsites with electric and water hookups as well as a dump station.
Swimming
1. Blackwater River State Park offers a natural freshwater swimming area in the river.
2. The park's sandy bottomed river is perfect for cooling off during hot summer days.
3. Swimming areas are not lifeguard protected, so visitors swim at their own risk.
4. Water shoes are recommended due to occasional underwater debris and rocks on the river bed.
5. Visitors can also enjoy tubing down this slow moving, tannin-colored waterway as an alternative to traditional swimming activities.


Boating
The Blackwater River attracts paddlers from far and wide and has been designated a Florida canoe trail. The last two miles of the trail are located within the park. Bring your canoes or tubes to truly enjoy the beauty of the Blackwater River. Local vendors offer trips and rentals. The park does not offer any rentals or trips at this time.
Fishing
Anglers can enjoy freshwater fishing for largemouth bass, catfish and bream. Canoeing or kayaking offers additional access to remote areas.


Location
Blackwater River State Park is located near Crestview, Fort Walton Beach and Milton

Picnicking
Three covered pavilions with picnic tables and grills are located within walking distance of the river and restrooms. These pavilions may be reserved for a fee. Picnic shelters and uncovered picnic tables are also located near the beach areas.
Trails
The terrain, plant communities, and wildlife are highlighted along the park?s two nature trails. Guided walks and programs for park guests are offered seasonally. The Juniper Creek Trail, which is maintained by the Florida Trail Association, is accessible from the park.
Birding
Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting various species like the red-cockaded woodpecker, swallow-tailed kite and bald eagle. The park's diverse habitats attract a variety of birds year-round. Birding trails offer opportunities to see migratory songbirds in spring and fall seasons.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
March 19 My Favorite Park
park review stars; one to five Thought we would see you in a couple of weeks, that changed yesterday when the park was closed. When it comes to spending time in a Florida Park, Blackwater is at the top of the list. Always quiet, no lights to keep us awake at bed time. God Bless you and your Families during the Virus time out. God is totally in charge and this too will pass. Stay safe, Bill and Glenda Hoisington Crestview, FL
December 28 A superb state park by Tom A.
park review stars; one to five Blackwater River is about the nicest overall state park ever. Well maintained facility, nice river, playground for kids, nice shaded sites, great rangers and hosts. And SITE septic!
February 14 our favorite place by ADAM B.
park review stars; one to five
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Pets
- Pets must be kept on a handheld leash that is six feet or shorter at all times.
- Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets and disposing of waste in designated receptacles.
- Pets are not allowed inside any buildings, including restrooms and cabins within the park.
- Dogs may not be left unattended anywhere within the state park boundaries.
- Pet owners should prevent excessive noise to avoid disturbing wildlife or other visitors' enjoyment of nature's soundscape.
- All pet vaccinations need to remain current during your visit as per Florida law requirements.
- Pets cannot participate in organized group activities such as guided tours due to potential disruption risks they pose.

Directions
Heading East on I?10 exit 31 (Hwy 87N), 1/2 mile, right turn on Hwy 90E, 7 miles to town of Harold, Left turn onto Deaton Bridge Road, 3 miles to main gate.

Heading West on I?10 exit 45 to town of Holt (blinking light). Left turn onto Hwy 90, Approximately 15 miles to the town of Harold, right turn on Deaton Bridge Road, 3 miles to main gate.

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Florida State Parks

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