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Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park

 About Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park

ADA accessible ramp attached to a building located at Mike Roess Gold head Branch State Park.

A NOTE FROM THE MANAGER

 

Gold Head Branch State Park features a rare eco-system in Florida, called a Steep Head Ravine. Sixty five feet deep and a mile and a half in length, the ravine offers hikers a cool and shady canopy, thanks to the surrounding hardwood hammock that lines its sides. Issuing from the head of the ravine are seepage springs that are the result of former rainfall percolating through the soil on the surrounding Sandhills that the ravine bisects. These springs converge to form the namesake of the park; Gold Head Branch. Clear and pristine, the branch adds to the scenic beauty of the ravine experience. Many endemic species, both flora and fauna call the ravine home, and birding opportunities abound as well. One can take a leisurely, short stroll around the Fern Loop, or embark on the longer Ridge Trail. For over five miles of hiking, visitors can explore the section of The Florida National Scenic Trail that passes through the park on its way to parts beyond.

 

 

Speaking of the Sandhill ecosystem, Gold Head boasts some of the nicest examples in the entire state. A long and consistent burn management program has resulted in beautiful vistas of rolling hills, peppered with some of the oldest, time sculpted longleaf pines you will most likely ever see. Waves of golden wiregrass provide the main food source for the threatened Gopher Tortoise, and you can try your luck at spotting an endangered Red Cockaded Woodpecker carving out a home in one of the living old-growth pines. Birds and wildlife abound and viewing opportunities are numerous.

 

Biking is a favorite means for visitors to see the park, with over four miles of paved drive throughout and access to a paved, six mile bike trail out of the park and south into Keystone Heights. From there you can bike east and west on the Palatka to Lake Butler Trail.

 

Planning an overnight stay at Gold Head? We encourage you to take advantage of the minimal light pollution here and look skyward after dark. Lots can be seen astronomically with the naked eye, but a good pair of binoculars or telescope can really enhance the experience. Kids love seeing the craters on the moon or perhaps even a nebula.

 

So, plan a visit to Gold Head Branch and enjoy more of the ‘Real Florida’.  We look forward to having you here! 

Steve Earl, Park Ranger

 

The swimming area will be closed due to low water conditions until further notice. 

Posted 5/17/2011.

DESIGNATIONS

The Great Florida Birding Trail Logo The Green Lodging Logo

GETTING HERE

Gold Head is located in northeast Florida midway between Gainesville and Jacksonville, 6 miles north of Keystone Heights on S.R. 21.

GET INVOLVED

  • For forms, information and benefits of volunteering visit Get Involved.
  • Gold Head Associates, Inc.
  • 6239 State Road 21
    Keystone Heights, FL 32656

CONCESSIONAIRES

PET POLICY