Blackwater River State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Blackwater River State Park |
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IUCN Category III (Natural Monument)
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Panoramic view of river in the park
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 Blackwater River State Park
Location in Florida
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| Location | Santa Rosa County, Florida, USA |
| Nearest city | Milton, Florida |
| Area | 590 acres |
| Established | 1967 |
| Governing body | Florida Department of Environmental Protection |
Blackwater River State Park is a Florida State Park located fifteen miles northeast of Milton, near Harold, off U.S. 90. The address is 7720 Deaton Bridge Road.
History
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. The park was certified a Registered State Natural Feature in 1980, for possessing exceptional value in illustrating the natural history of Florida. In 1982, an Atlantic white cedar there was recognized as a Florida Champion tree, one of the largest and oldest of its species.
Recreational activities
The park has such amenities as birding, boating, canoeing, fishing, hiking, kayaking, picnicking areas, swimming, tubing, wildlife viewing and full camping facilities. The main picnicking area has covered picnicking pavilions, restrooms, and a spacious parking lot. Bring your tubes and enjoy a leisurely float down the river to the Deaton Bridge. It is a short 1 mile hike back to the parking lot to retrieve your vehicle. Very kid friendly park with a variety of areas for swimming.
