Blackwater River State Park

Blackwater River is an eco marvel and one of the few pure white sand rivers in the world. This state park has a lot to offer and is well worth the hour and fifteen minutes drive from Destin.

How many times have you said that you are going down to lay out on the white sand by a river? Probably never. Blackwater River has a number of sand banks where you can stop off the hiking trail to go swimming or take a rest from kayaking or canoeing down the river. It’s truly a unique experience that is one of Florida’s greatest hidden gems.

Our day consisted of renting kayaks at the nearby post where we then followed the van carrying them up the river where we left our car. They then shuttled us to the launch area where we set down the gentle river. If you prefer kayaks instead of canoes, it’s perfectly fine to have a cooler float right next to you. We stopped off at about 5 different landing areas where we sprawled out on the beaches.

Half way down the river we abandoned the kayaks to explore the Chain of Lakes Hiking Trail. A splendid hour and a half walk that winds through the swamps and gorgeous pines that align the river.

The trip itself down the river is about 11 miles and can take a half day or up to a full day with extended stops or hiking. You can choose from kayaks, canoes, tubes or swimming. Well maybe not swimming.

The river moves at a relatively slow pace and is suitable for adventurers of all ages. Make sure to come prepared with plenty of water, sunscreen and food. While there is plenty of shade along the river banks, this is the Florida sun we’re talking about.

There is an additional hiking trail – the Juniper trail that is a bit shorter and just as scenic.

Activities

The most popular park activities include:

Swimming (at designated areas)

Canoeing – the river has been designated a Florida canoe trail

Kayaking – for paddlers who prefer to go at a bit higher speed

Tubing – rent a tube and float gently down the river

Camping – camp sites are available and reservations are recommended

Bird watching – throughout the entire park

Scenic Hiking – there are two trails to choose from and guided walks in-season

Fishing

Picnicking – there are a number of covered pavilions available

How to get here?

Blackwater River State Park is located 15 miles northeast of Milton, off U.S. 90.

Heading East on I-10, exit 31 (Hwy 87N). Half mile, right turn on Highway 0E. Seven miles to town of Harold. Left turn onto Deaton Bridge Road. Three miles to main gate. 

Heading West on I-10, exit 45 to town of Holt (blinking light). Left turn onto Highway 90. Approximately 15 miles to the town of Harold. Right turn on Deaton Bridge Road. Three miles to main gate. 

There are plenty of signs and the park is very easy to find. There are multiple parking areas throughout the park but we suggest heading to the main entrance and grabbing a map first off. Below are some of the pictures we took from our day out. 

We rank this park as our second favorite in Northwest Florida.