Section 3.3 – Forest Adventures & Wilderness Trails
Anyone who wants to disappear into the wilderness will find that green gateway in North Florida, home to places like Jennings State Forest, covering 25,000 acres of Clay County and extending into neighboring Duval County. Here, the Pioneer Trail is a unique hiking experience not commonly found in the mostly-flat terrain of the Sunshine State—constant elevation changes, with beautiful bluffs, hollows and waterfalls.
Heading to Northwest Florida, the 200,000-acre Blackwater River State Forest in Santa Rosa County is part of one of the largest contiguous longleaf pine landscapes left in the world, providing habitat for species like the red-cockaded woodpecker, gopher tortoise and pine barrens treefrog. Cutting through the forest is the scenic Blackwater River, a clear, tannin-colored waterway popular for paddling and recreation.
In addition to paddling and canoeing, the forest welcomes hikers and backpackers to miles of trails, including portions of the Florida National Scenic Trail, with horseback riding and mountain biking also available.
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Outdoor Adventure or Outdoor Peace – Find both near the St. Johns River in Putnam County
Putnam County blends creativity, history, and outdoor exploration along the scenic St. Johns River, inviting visitors to find either adventure or quiet restoration—or both.
In downtown Palatka, visitors can follow a self‑guided mural tour featuring 26 vibrant murals, then step inside free galleries like the Larimer Arts Center and The River Center, where rotating exhibits showcase painting, photography, ceramics, and mixed media. Palatka is also home to rare World War I–era Doughboy statues at the base of the Memorial Bridge. Enjoy the lakeside community of Melrose, a celebrated arts hub with galleries, studios, music and events.
History comes alive at Angel’s Dining Car, Florida’s oldest diner, operating since 1932. This converted train car delivers classic comfort food, and timeless charm. Beyond the diner, history lovers can explore museums in Palatka and Melrose, or take a self‑guided historic home tour in Crescent City.
Birders will find exceptional opportunities at sites on the Great Florida Birding Trail, including Welaka National Fish Hatchery, Ravine Gardens State Park, and Etoniah Creek State Forest, where Bald Eagles, Ospreys, and Florida Scrub‑Jays are commonly spotted. Dunns Creek State Park is working with Cornell University’s Southeastern Burning For Birds Collaborative.
Enjoy hiking, cycling or paddling hundreds of miles of trails, including the National Recreation Trail – Bartram Trail, which highlights British naturalist William Bartram’s journal of floral and fauna from the 1700s, much of which still exists today. Palatka is one of 17 Trail Towns in Florida.
For an authentic Old Florida stay, local fish camps along the St. Johns River offer lodging, boating access, and a relaxed waterfront lifestyle or enjoy a riverfront vacation rental perfect for magical sunsets and lingering a little longer in Putnam County.