A visit to Blackwater State Park is a wonderful way to experience nature’s bounty. You can enjoy hiking, swimming, and a beautiful campground with hot showers. A day-use area and swimming pool are also available.
The campground is well-maintained and offers picnic tables and playgrounds. There are two overlooks at the park. Visitors can also take a short hike to Elakala Falls. This waterfall is spectacular, but the hike is not without its risks, so be careful.
Let’s go through everything you should know about Blackwater State Park.
Where is Blackwater State Park?
Blackwater Falls State Park is located in Tucker County’s Allegheny Mountains and was named for the amber water of Blackwater Falls, a 57-foot waterfall colored by tannic acid from fallen hemlock and red spruce needles.
The beauty of the falls, as well as a few of the park’s other attractions such as Elakala Falls and Lindy Point, are among the state’s most photogenic areas.
The beautiful views may be appreciated all year by going to the falls or using viewing platforms. There are 20 kilometers of hiking trails in the park, with one of the longest sledding magic carpets on the East Coast in winter.
Where to Stay to Visit Blackwater River State Park?
The nearest city to Blackwater River State Park in Milton, FL. Located only 15 miles away, you can easily reach the State Park in the morning and stay there for the day.
Alternatively, you can stay there for the night and camp at enjoying a more exclusive experience.
Camping at Blackwater River State Park
Camping at one of the State Park’s campsites is a must to enjoy all that the park has to offer. Coming in with your vehicle is possible from 8 a.m. until sundown, every day – all year round, and will cost you $4.
This campground, nestled among towering longleaf pines, features spacious gravel spots with full hookup and can accommodate tents as large as 35-foot RV motor homes.
A brief walk along the Juniper Lake Nature Trail from the campground leads down to the water for swimming and relaxing. As night falls over the forest, watch as the sun sets spectacularly. Listen to crickets and frogs skittering about through the dark hours.
Apart from that, you can see animals in the park. Bobcats, white-tailed deer, and turkeys are common. River otters and alligators may come too. You can also see birds like hawks, warblers, Mississippi kites, and pileated woodpeckers. They also have red-cockaded woodpeckers which are federally protected since they are threatened.
Can You Spot Alligators in Blackwater River State Park?
The short answer is yes, you will possibly spot alligators at the Blackwater State Park. However, they are not common because the water is cold as well as the sandy bottom.
Are Bonfires Allowed at the Blackwater State Park?
Bonfires at the park aren’t the best options since you’re in the middle of a pine forest. However, a charcoal barbecue is a great alternative and you’ll be able to cook and get some warmth out of it.
How Much is the Entrance Fee at Blackwater State Park?
The park’s admission per se is free for both adults and kids all year round. It is an ideal spot to see these animals up close and it’s simply a fantastic option for spending some quality time with your family. The river sparkles with moonlight at night. It also has a picnic area with picnic tables and barbecue grills.
That said, there are other fees that you should consider. The price per vehicle and up to 8 people is $4.
However, the fee for the active Florida National Guard members is $2. The same goes for bicyclists, passengers, and extra passengers holding an Annual Individual Entrance Pass.
Are Pets Allowed at Blackwater State Park?
Yes, pets are allowed at Blackwater State Park and you will be able to enjoy time with your favorite pet playing around. That said, they aren’t allowed along the main white bank part of the park, but they can walk everywhere else.
Are There Bike Trails at the Blackwater River State Park?
Yes, there are 3 main trails at the Blackwater State Park which are:
These trails are mainly to walk and you can ride your bike since it is paved. However, these trails aren’t made for mountain bikes.
Blackwater River State Park is a great place to go hiking. It offers trails that are perfect for novices and experts alike, and the 57-foot waterfall is one of the most photographed places in Pennsylvania. There are 20 miles of hiking trails to enjoy, and there’s a sledding magic carpet on the East Coast that is unique and can’t be found anywhere else. There’s also a lodge and a playground for kids.
When is Blackwater River State Park Open?
Blackwater State Park is open all year long from 8.00 am until sunset.
There are many ways to explore the park’s scenic overlooks. You can walk along the edge of the canyon, enjoy a sunset, or even go cross-country skiing. There’s no shortage of activities, from hiking to rafting. The waterfall itself is a spectacular sight to behold.
Another option for outdoor recreation at Blackwater State Park is a hiking, fishing, or biking. There’s also a picnic area, restrooms, and a sledding magic carpet.
There are several options for your outdoor activity. The park has many amenities, including large pavilions and restrooms. For those who prefer to stay near the water, there are many lodging options. If you don’t want to drive too far, you can rent a sled and park your car.
The park is open daily all year round which makes it a great travel destination for everyone. It is open 8 AM to dusk and closes at sunset. Aside from the waterfall, there are trails that showcase the Blackwater River. While there’s a small fee for camping, the park is a popular spot to visit during the spring and fall. The state park is located in a beautiful part of the country and offers plenty to do.
If you’re looking for a place to camp in the forest, consider visiting Blackwater State Park. The 65-unit campground features a mountain lodge and 39 fully-furnished cabins. You can also rent kayaks or canoes at this park. The area is home to some of the most beautiful sand-bottom rivers in the country. During the spring, the river is a popular destination for families and groups of all ages.
Conclusion
The Blackwater River has a unique, dark-tanked bottom that makes it uniquely beautiful. The state park’s 62-foot waterfall is the most photographed venue in the state and is the reason this park is so popular.
This was everything you needed to know about Blackwater River State Park and I couldn’t recommend it enough for a family trip or simply when traveling with friends.
