When people think of Clay County, they think of Jacksonville and its big city amenities. But Clay County is more than just the metropolitan center of northeast Florida. It’s also home to several well-preserved, must-see natural springs and gorgeous parks.
6 Springs and Parks You Should Visit in Clay County
Whether you’re interested in fishing, hiking, birdwatching, swimming, or even surfing, Clay County has a local, state, or national park that is ideal for you and your family. Here are six of the top springs and parks in Clay County that are more than worth your time.
1. Gold Head Branch State Park
Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park is one of Florida’s first-ever state parks, developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps on 600 acres in the 1930s. Gold Head is home to rolling sandhills, longleaf pines, and a steep ravine with seepage springs that are open to the public. If you visit Gold Head Branch State Park, get ready for a fun-filled trip of bicycling, birdwatching, camping, fishing, hiking, swimming, paddling, picnicking, and more!
2. Camp Chowenwaw County Park
Camp Chowenwaw Park is located on 150 acres of land along Black Creek in Green Cove Springs, Florida. There’s a museum and nature center on the park grounds, offering family-friendly fun and educational opportunities. Visitors to this beautiful park can enjoy a day of hiking, fishing, kayaking, and recreational activities, including a seasonal pool, volleyball courts, and more!
3. Wadesboro Springs
Wadesboro Springs is created from the water flowing out of the Hawthorn Group sediments near Doctors Lake and the St. Johns River. This spring provides drinking water the Orange Park and the surrounding area and is not accessible to the public.
4. Spring Park
Located on the gorgeous St. Johns River in Green Cove Springs, Spring Park has some of the most beautiful springs in Clay County. The park is home to river trails, playgrounds, and a kayak launch. If you’re looking for a family-friendly park to picnic, swim, and spend a relaxing day in the sun, Spring Park is where you want to be.
5. Moccasin Slough Park
Moccasin Slough Park is located along the St. Johns River, with over 255 acres of explorable land. The park has two working trails, a playground for kids, a covered pavilion, a picnic area, and eight fitness stations. The park also offers incredible accessibility, including handicap parking, well-maintained roads and grass, and fully paved trails.
6. Mandarin Park
Last on our list, but certainly not least, is Mandarin Park, located in the heart of Southeast Jacksonville. This beautiful park offers river access with a boat ramp, short trails, a small pond, stunning river views, a fishing area, a playground, a boardwalk, and picnic areas available via reservation. If you’re searching for a park that offers a wild array of activities and amenities in Clay County, Mandarin Park is the park for you.
Interested in Living in Clay County?
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