40 Acre Park
A community park in Welaka, 40 Acre Park is a great stop for birding, with little-used trails that ramble around a series of wetlands once used in the fish ...
Parks, Trails & Springs
State parks, blueways, hiking trails, and the springs that make North Central Florida unmistakable.
Bartram Trail
What reader of Bartram’s Travels has not longed to follow in the wake of William’s boat as it made its way up the St. Johns River, or to hike or ride horseb ...
Bryant’s Wharf Kayak Launch
Bryant's Wharf Kayak Launch is a public facility with amenities that include: Restrooms Overnight mooring (2 nights maximum) Fishing/Shrimping (permit ...
Dunns Creek State Park
Tucked just south of a bend in the St. Johns River, Dunns Creek State Park covers over 6,200 acres, making it a go-to spot for outdoor lovers. Whether you&# ...
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
The FWC’s mission is to manage fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people. Florida remains one of the country’s to ...
Jefferson Smith Memorial Ball Park
This is a large park with much to keep your active children entertained and happy. There is a lighted ballfield with covered bleachers, picnic pavilion, Two ...
Little Lake George Croaker Hole
Croaker Hole Spring is located about 3.5 miles southwest of Welaka in Little Lake George, which is part of the St. Johns River. This Florida freshwater bay ...
Mt. Royal Indian Mound
One of Florida’s largest mounds, Mount Royal was first documented by William Bartram in 1765, when it was an important central feature of a large village al ...
Pomona Park Community Center
The Town of Pomona Park has a lovely historic building used as a Community Center. It was initially built as a schoolhouse. It will accommodate up to 150 pe ...
Ravine Garden State Park
Ravine Gardens State Park is one of the nine New Deal-era state parks in Florida. The park has two ravines up to 120 feet deep with steep banks at 45-degree ...
Welaka Downtown Park
Spend your day at Welaka Downtown Park! Our park offers a variety of activities for the whole family to enjoy. From restrooms with showers and lighted tenni ...
Welaka National Fish Hatchery and Aquarium
The Welaka National Fish Hatchery was built in 1926 and originally operated by the State of Florida. In 1938, the hatchery was transferred to the U.S. Fish ...
Welaka State Forest
Welaka State Forest is located along the east bank of the historic St. Johns River. The Florida Forest Service maintains the integrity of the forest's ...
Welaka State Forest Mud Spring Trail
Get out and explore the beauty of the Welaka State Forest today! Take a 1.7-mile loop trek around the incredible Mud Spring Trail, where you'll find a ...
Welaka Town Hall Recreation Area
Come explore the beauty of Welaka Town Hall Recreational Park! Take a stroll on the LifeTrail Circuit, shoot some hoops on the basketball court, enjoy a pic ...
Frequently asked questions
- What state parks are in the Welaka area?
- Welaka State Forest is right in town with hiking trails. Dunns Creek State Park is 25 minutes north. Ravine Gardens State Park is in Palatka. Welaka National Fish Hatchery has a short Beecher Run Nature Trail along its old fish ponds.
- Can I swim at Mud Spring?
- Mud Spring is not officially designated for swimming. It's a small, clear, blue-green pool meant for viewing. For swimming, drive 30-45 minutes west to Salt Springs or Silver Glen Springs in the Ocala National Forest.
- How long is the Bartram Trail in Welaka State Forest?
- The William Bartram St. Johns River Loop is about 5 miles. The shorter Mud Spring Trail is 1.7 miles. Both start near the visitor center at 720 CR 309 and have a $2 per person day-use fee.
- Where can I see manatees near Welaka?
- Manatees use Welaka and Mud Spring as winter resting spots. Best viewing is November through March from Bryant's Wharf or the public boat ramps. For guaranteed sightings, Blue Spring State Park is about 1.5 hours south.
- Are dogs allowed on the trails?
- Yes, leashed dogs are welcome on Welaka State Forest trails. Pack water for them and watch for snakes and alligators. Most Florida park trails allow leashed dogs.