Manager's Message
The summer is here in North Florida! Come out and enjoy these days of sunshine at Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park. The wonders of nature come into full bloom this time of year, as the newborn fawns are at play and the trees blossom a calm nature fills the ravine and hills. Enjoy this tranquil retreat always being watchful for the wildlife of the park!
Take the family out for a rustic getaway, whether it’s hiking or biking though our beautiful vistas during the day then cool your self in our swimming area and enjoy the blanket of stars at night. A stay at the park is sure to leave a memorable experience. Remember to check for our weekly programs and events at the ranger station.
Make the most of your time and share the natural beauty that is Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park.
Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park is a full service park that offers family camping, vacation cabins, a group camp area, a picnic area, recreation building rental, hiking trails, equestrian trails, fishing, and canoe rentals. We invite you to come out and enjoy this beautiful warm weather while it lasts. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to give us a call and let us know how we may serve you.
We hope to see you soon!
- Jason Cutshaw, Park Manager
Welcome to Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park
One of Florida´s first state parks, Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park was developed on a 2,000-acre site by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the 1930s. The extraordinary craftsmanship of the CCC is still evident today. Located on rolling sandhills in an area known as the central ridge of Florida, a deep ravine with springs issuing from its side bisects the area and forms Gold Head Branch. Marshes, lakes and scrub provide a habitat for a wide variety of wildlife.
Visitors to the park can enjoy hiking and wildlife viewing along the park´s nature trails and a three-mile stretch of the Florida Trail. For aquatic recreation, visitors can swim or fish in the lake, or spend a lazy afternoon canoeing. A large picnic area, with tables and grills, overlooks Little Lake Johnson. Nestled under the trees is a full-facility campground. Group and primitive campsites are available as are fully equipped lakefront cabins, some of which were built by the CCC.
Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park, please call 352-473-4701.
Get more information on making a reservation.
Hours of Operation
Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park is open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.
Driving Directions
Gold Head is located in northeast Florida midway between Gainesville and Jacksonville, 6 miles north of Keystone Heights on S.R. 21.
Park Fees
Admission Fee:
$5.00 per vehicle. Limit 2-8 people per vehicle.
$4.00 Single Occupant Vehicle.
$2.00 Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.
Camping Fee:
$20.00 per night, plus tax. Includes water and electricity. Maximum of 8 people or one single family.
Cabin Rental
$65.00 per night, plus tax, historic cabins.$425.00 per week, plus tax, historic cabins.
$75.00 per night, plus tax, rustic cabins.
$490.00 per week, plus tax, rustic cabins.
$100.00 per night, plus tax, vacation cabins.
$650.00 per week, plus tax, vacation cabins.
Primitive Camping Fee:
$5.00/person per night.
Group Camping Fee:
$1.00 per person, per night for youth 18 and younger.
$5.00 per person, per night for adults/chaperon 18 years and older.
Organized Youth and Adult Group Camping:
$1.00 per person, per night for youth 18 and younger.
$5.00 per person, per night for adults/chaperon 18 years and older.
Picnic Pavilion Fee:
$35.00 to $70.00 per day. There are eight (8) covered shelters available. They vary in size and can accommodate 16 to 100 people. All picnic pavilions have tables and grills. They are available on a first come first served basis or can be reserved up to 11 months in advance by calling the park or in person.
Recreation Building:
$75.00 per day.
Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park
6239 S.R. 21
Keystone Heights, Florida 32656
Phone: 352-473-4701
Fax: Contact Park for Number
Citizen Support Organization
Gold Head Associates, Inc.
6239 State Road 21
Keystone Heights, FL 32656
