Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park

Contact Information

• 6239 State Road 21, Keystone Heights, FL 32656

• 352-473-4701

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Activity Description

One of Florida’s first state parks, the park was developed on a 600-acre site by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the 1930s. The extraordinary craftsmanship of the CCC is still evident today. Gold Head is located on rolling sand-hills on the North Central Ridge of Florida with one of the few remaining examples of an old growth stand of longleaf pines. A steep head ravine with seepage springs forms Gold Head Branch and bisects the park. Marshes, lakes and scrub provide habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. Visitors to the park can enjoy hiking and wildlife viewing along the park’s nature trails and a 5.44-mile stretch of the Florida National Scenic Trail. Visitors also can swim or fish in Little Lake Johnson, or spend a lazy afternoon canoeing. A large picnic area with tables and grills, pavilions and a playground is available for visitors to enjoy. Nestled under the trees are three campgrounds; water and electricity are provided. Primitive campsites for small or large groups are available as are fully equipped lakefront vacation cabins, some of which were built by the CCC.