Park Summary for Print - Blackwater River State Park

Welcome to Blackwater River State Park

A favorite destination for canoeists and kayakers, Blackwater River offers opportunities for a variety of outdoor recreation. The river is one of the purest sand-bottom 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.

Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Blackwater River State Park, please call 850-983-5363.

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Hours of Operation

Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.

Driving 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.

Park Fees

Admission Fee:

$4.00 per vehicle. Please use the honor box to pay fees. Correct change is required. Limit 8 people per vehicle.

$2.00 Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.

Picnic Pavilion Rental Fees:

$35.00 per day, plus tax.

Camping Fee:

>$20.00 per night, plus tax. Includes water and electricity.

Activities at Blackwater River State Park

	Canoeing & Kayaking 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 Fishing is allowed in designated areas Do you need a Fishing License?
	Full Facility Camping This 590-acre park offers 30 campsites with electric and water hookups as well as a dump station.
	Nature 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.
	Pet Camping Pet Camping is avalible
	Pets Pet camping is available
	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.
	Swimming Swimming is available in designated areas
	Tubing Tubing is available in designated areas
	Wildlife Viewing Wildlife viewing is possible at this park

Special Events for Blackwater River State Park

There are no events listed at this time. Please call our park for more details on possible future events.

Frequently Asked Questions about Blackwater River State Park

Question: Do you have any waterfront campsites?
Answer: No, but there is a short trail to the river.

Question: Do you have campsites?
Answer: Yes, we have 30 campsites with electricity and water hookups.

Question: Do you close the park if the river floods?
Answer: Yes, we have closed the park due to the river flooding. The river’s depth does fluctuate due to rainfall. Call the park directly for up-to-date information on the depth of the river.

Blackwater River State Park History

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”.

Blackwater River State Park Volunteer Information

Park volunteers provide tremendous support in the areas of maintenance, resource management, and campground hosts. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer at Blackwater River State Park, please contact the park office for information and an application. Our office phone number is (850) 983-5363.