Ravine Trail at Gold Head Branch State Park
The 3.5-mile Ravine Trail at Gold Head Branch State Park is part of the famous Florida Trail and takes hikers on a trip through rolling sand hills, gorgeous pine, poplar and cypress forests, past Rice Creek and along a steep ravine. The trail surface varies between dirt and wooden boardwalks. Those who wish to stay overnight will find an enclosed camping shelter at Iron Bridge that is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Gold Head Branch State Park
6239 State Road 21
Keystone Heights, FL 32656
(352) 473-4701
floridastateparks.org
Bayard Point Conservation Trails
Located near Green Cove Springs on the majestic St. Johns River, Bayard Point Conservation Area offers more than 15 miles of off-road hiking, biking and equestrian trails. Nature lovers will enjoy encounters with an abundance of native wildlife, including green herons, gopher tortoises, wild turkeys and bald eagles.
Bayard Point Conservation Area
Johns River Water Management District
7775 Baymeadows Way, Suite 102
Jacksonville, FL 32256
(904) 730-6270
sjrwmd.com
Black Creek Trail
The Black Creek Trail runs along U.S. Highway 17 south from Orange Park to Black Creek Park in Green Cove Springs. The trail for bicyclists and pedestrians winds through shady wooded areas and scenic marshland near the St. Johns River. Hikers and bikers looking for a secluded area will prefer another trail since Black Creek is very popular and crosses major roads in several places.
Black Creek Park & Trail
7890 Highway 17
Jacksonville, FL 32244
(904) 284-6378
claycountygov.com/Departments/Parks_Rec/Parks_home.htm
Moccasin Slough Preservation
This 255-acre park on Fleming Island offers a walking trail that takes visitors along the beautiful St. Johns River, through wooded areas and a scenic freshwater marsh, past a bald eagle habitat. This popular nature area is home to a large population of waterfowl and other local wildlife and is situated near a large residential community.
Moccasin Slough
US Highway 17 North
Flemming Island, FL 32003
(904) 358-0114
tpl.org
Off-Road Trails at Jennings State Forest
Jennings State Forest offers two hiking trails for visitors to enjoy. The five-mile-long North Fork Black Creek Trail winds through a variety of interesting topography, including sandhills, wooded forest areas, creeks, swamps and streams. The easy-going Fire and Water Nature Trail takes hikers on an interactive two-mile hike, offering information about the relationships between fire, water and the forest. Jennings State Forest is closed to all other outdoor activities during the hunting season, so be sure to check season dates before visiting.
Jennings State Forest
1337 Longhorn Road
Middleburg, FL 32068
(904) 291-553
fl-dof.com/state_forests/jennings.html#rec
