Jennings State Forest is a distinctive introduction to Clay: it encompasses more than 15 different natural biological communities and is located in northeastern Florida, in the northern part of Clay County. From the forest’s diversity, exploration leads to waterways, notable trails and historic sites.

Forests, Trails and Sandhills

The communities found in Jennings State Forest include sandhills, slope forest, flatwoods, seepage slope, dome swamp, blackwater stream and seepage stream. Along North Fork Black Creek, you can spot herons and other water birds. Nature is revealed both through its varied habitats and through opportunities to observe wildlife by the water.

The Sandridge Loop is 6.75 miles long and passes through rolling sandhill ecosystems, with expansive scenic views. In the Long Branch Recreation Area, equestrian trails range from the 4-mile Blue Loop to the 12-mile Yellow Loop. The trails can therefore be distinguished by their stated focus: sandhill scenery and views on the Sandridge Loop, and designated equestrian trails in the Long Branch Recreation Area.

A 5.44-mile section of the Florida National Scenic Trail runs through Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park. The park is set in rolling sandhill country and includes one of the few remaining stands of old-growth longleaf pine. The 600-acre site was developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. The landscape and the park’s history offer two distinct perspectives on the same place.

Along Black Creek and in Spring Park

Black Creek is a 13-mile-long blackwater stream. Its two main tributaries are North Fork Black Creek and South Fork Black Creek. Camp Chowenwaw Park is located at the mouth of Black Creek, near its confluence with the St. Johns River, and covers 150 acres. Canoes, kayaks and paddleboards have direct access there to historic Black Creek, just upstream of the confluence. Camp Chowenwaw opened on July 1, 1933; the Girl Scout Council of Duval County then operated the site as a scout camp for more than 70 years.

At times, the spring in Spring Park has reached a flow rate of more than 3,000 gallons per minute and maintains a constant temperature of 72 degrees. The kayak launch at Spring Park is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Check the launch conditions before you travel.

The Palatka-to-Lake Butler State Trail also runs through Clay County. Starting from the Twin Lakes Park trailhead in Clay County, the trail offers 19 miles of paved asphalt for cycling.

Museums and Historic Sites

Founded in 1990, the Camp Blanding Museum currently features exhibits on the history of Camp Blanding and its involvement in World War II. The 1890 Historic Courthouse was built between 1890 and 1893; visitor groups are welcomed by appointment. The Old Clay County Jail was built in 1894 and used until 1972. It is the second-oldest surviving jail in Florida.

Numerous exhibits at the Clay County Historical Society Museum depict everyday life in Clay County over the past century. The Middleburg Museum preserves, shares, celebrates and promotes the history of Middleburg. The Military Museum of North Florida displays artifacts and exhibits on military history from the American Revolutionary War through Operation Iraqi Freedom. Several guided tour options are available for groups.

Markets and Events

In Green Cove Springs, the 3rd Saturday Market in the Park takes place from September through June, on the third Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It is held on Walnut Street in front of Spring Park. Local vendors offer fresh produce and other freshly made goods. If you plan to visit the market, check the specific date in advance.

The Northeast Florida Scottish Games & Festival is an annual event featuring athletics, music, food and entertainment.

Discover more destinations: Orange Park, Middleburg, Green Cove Springs, Frostproof, Fleming Island, Keystone Heights, Lakeside

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