Blackwater River State Park

About Blackwater River State Park

The Blackwater River is a popular destination for canoeists and kayakers, offering opportunities for a variety of outdoor activities. The river is sandy - deep and therefore ideal for kayaking, canoeing and other outdoor activities such as fishing. Shady campsites are just a short walk from the river and visitors can enjoy picnics in a gazebo overlooking the river.

The river is lined with Atlantic white cedars, one of which is recognized as a Florida Champion tree.

Nature lovers can walk along the paths of this unspoilt natural community. The park has been recognized as a natural monument in the state of Florida because it has a unique opportunity to showcase Florida's natural history to the world through its natural heritage and resources.

Blackwater River State Park was founded in 1967 and opened to the public on November 22, 1968.

The park acquired 230 hectares from the forest administration on 17 July 1981, and the park covers 360 hectares. Blackwater River State Park is located on the banks of the Blackwater River, south of Lake Okeechobee, Florida, and is located on a 1,500-acre property in the state of Florida.

Today, the park is surrounded by the Blackwater River State Forest and covers an area of 1,500 hectares, covered by a 2.8 km long river.

The river is lined with Atlantic white cedars and within the park is the largest of its kind, which was awarded the Florida Champion in 1982. The park covers 590 hectares and has a total area of 1,500 hectares and a population of about 2,000 people. It has been certified as an officially registered state natural feature and has the potential to showcase Florida's natural history in the form of the Blackwater River State Forest and Florida State Park System.

The Blackwater River has been designated Florida's canoe route and attracts paddlers from near and far. The last two kilometers of the trail are in the park, so take a canoe or subway to really enjoy the beauty of the trail.

The park does not currently offer excursion rentals, but local operators offer excursion rentals at the Blackwater River State Park Visitor Center and on the riverbank in Fort Myers.

Pavilions can be reserved for a fee, and there are covered pavilions within walking distance of the river.

Picnic blankets and uncovered picnic tables are also available on the beach area, and seasonal guided hikes and programs for park guests are offered. The Juniper Brook Trail, maintained by the Florida Trail Association, is accessible from the park.

Turn left onto Highway 90 and head west until you reach the intersection of Highway 95 and the exit for Juniper Brook Trail. Turn right into the parking lot of Blackwater River State Park, turn left onto Highway90, flash and park in the park.