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Small Towns, Big Passions: Clay County, Florida

Last Updated on January 10, 2024

Located in the northeast part of Florida, Clay County offers an authentic slice of Florida life for everyone from two to 102 years old. You can find the natural beauty of the St. Johns River, undeveloped woodlands, hiking, and camping in these welcoming small towns.

With unique shopping, or military history that extends from the Seminole Wars in the 1700s through the war in Iraq, Clay County Florida is for you.

Things to do in Clay County Florida

Things to do in Clay County Florida

Sizeable towns in Clay County include Green Cove Springs, Keystone Heights, Orange Park, Penney Farms, Fleming Island, Lakeside, and Middleburg. 

Table of Contents

    Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail

    Camp Chowenwaw Park

    Couple at Campsite
    Couple at Campsite

    Camp Chowenwaw Park is a historic campground where you can view orange-crowned warblers, yellow-bellied sapsuckers, eastern wood pewee, and also summer tanagers depending on the season. The park is located at the mouth of Black Creek.

    Camp Chowenwaw Park waterfront
    Source: Camp Chowenwaw Park

    It has 100 acres of wetlands and 50 acres of uplands where yellow-crowned heron, osprey, and also barred owls can be found. Camping facilities include tent sites, two lodges, nine treehouse cabins, and also seven cabins.

    Camp Chowenwaw Park Cabin
    Source: Camp Chowenwaw Park

    Each campsite has a bathhouse with full restroom accommodations and a community house with electricity, including a stove and also a refrigerator. Walking trails access all cabins and tent sites. Visitors are responsible for bringing their linens, cookware, and dishes.

    To reserve a camp space, visit campchoenwaw.claycountygov.com or call (904) 529-8058.

    Camp Chowenwaw Park Address: 1517 Ball Rd, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043.

    Jennings State Forest

    Jennings State Forest Sign
    Source: Jennings State Forest

    Jennings State Forest, located in northwest Clay County, near the town of Middleburg, is a part of The Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. The trail has hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, primitive camping, and also hiking. 

    Jennings State Forest horses
    Source: Jennings State Forest

    Horseback riding, bicycling, and canoeing, from four canoe launch sites, are also permitted. Animals that make their home here include the green tree frog, gray fox, hawks, white-tailed deer, turkey, eastern cottontail, northern bobwhite, pine warbler, and also other songbirds.

    Jennings State Forest Trailhead Sign
    Source: Jennings State Forest

    Along the Black Creek are raccoons, otters, alligators, and wading birds. 

    To reserve a camping site, visit https://floridastateforests.reserveamerica.com/

    Jennings State Forest Address: 1337 Long Horn Rd, Middleburg, FL 32068

    Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park

    Kayaks at Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park
    Source: Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park

    Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park is officially listed in the National Register of Historic Places. It is one of Florida’s first State Parks located six miles outside of Keystone Heights on Highway 21.

    Dragonfly at Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park
    Source: Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park

    Gold Head has three campground loops and 73 campsites that can accommodate tents, trailers, and also motorized campers. Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring/grill, and also has potable water.

    Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park waterfront
    Source: Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park

    Gold Head Park offers sandy hills, pine forests, hiking trails, and also an abundance of wildlife.

    To reserve a camping site, visit https://floridastateforests.reserveamerica.com/

    Learn even more about Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park.

    Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park Address: 6239 State Rd 21, Keystone Heights, FL 32656

    Places To Stay

    River Park Inn

    River Park Inn front of building
    Source: River Park Inn

    If you prefer a more civilized stay while visiting Clay County, the historic River Park Inn will make you feel at home. This B & B hotel alternative located in Green Cove Springs offers true Clay County hospitality. 

    River Park Inn Room
    Source: River Park Inn

    All the rooms have private ensuite bathrooms, plush linens, and also comfy robes to relax in. There are guest refrigerators either in the rooms or common areas. Breakfast and free refreshments are always available.

    The River Park Inn Address: 103 S. Magnolia Ave, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043

    Club Continental

    The Club Continental Exterior
    Source: The Club Continental

    The beautiful Club Continental, situated on the west bank of the St. John’s River, has the reputation of having all the conveniences of a large city resort while retaining its small-town atmosphere. 

    The Club Continental Room
    Source: The Club Continental

    Located in Orange Park, guests can enjoy the resort, shop, and dine in town or take a drive through Clay County to experience the pleasures of neighboring small towns.

    Club Continental Address: 2143 Astor St. Orange Park, FL.

    Full-service national-brand hotels are located throughout Clay County in Middleburg, Orange Park, and Fleming Island.

    Fun Things to See and Do

    Green Springs Grove

    Green Cove Springs Clay County
    Green Cove Springs

    When you visit the Clay County government seat of Green Springs Cove, your options are unlimited. During the months of May to September, you can cool off in the City Pool directly fed by the Green Cove Spring which maintains a constant temperature of 77 degrees (F).

    Green Cove Springs Pool
    Source: Green Cove Springs

    The park has pavilions, playgrounds, and also lush landscaping that leads you to the banks of the St. John’s River.

    Clay County’s Historic Triangle

    Don’t miss Clay County’s Historic Triangle, where past and present meet. Bound by Ferris Street, Gratio Place, and Walnut Street, the Historic Courthouse, “Old” Jailhouse, Historical Society Museum, and also Historical Archives are available for tours and information on Clay County. 

    County Jail
    Source: Clay County

    The “Old” Jailhouse has been featured on several paranormal research television shows, including The Atlantic Paranormal Society “TAPS” syndicated television program. Ghostly sounds and apparitions have been reported and recorded there.

    Old Jailhouse

    The “Old” Jailhouse provided living space for the jailers and their families, which now houses the Clay County Archives. If you are looking for family ties, genealogy research is a highlight of the County Archives in Clay County. Group tours are available by appointment. 

    Call the Archives Specialist (904) 371-0027 for more details.

    The Historic Triangle Address: 915 Walnut Street, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043

    Find a Unique Gift, Tasty Treat, or Great Meal

    Whitey’s Fish Camp

    Whitey's Fish Camp
    Whitey’s Fish Camp

    A Fleming Island favorite, Whitey’s Fish Camp unquestionably has an Old Florida vibe. Whitey’s was recently named the Best Place in Jacksonville to Dock & Dine by JaxBest.

    Seafood on a platter at Whiteys Fish Camp
    Source: Whitey’s Fish Camp

    Check out their nightly dining specials and also live music on the weekends.

    Whitey’s Fish Camp Address: 2032 County Road 220, Fleming Island, FL 32003

    YUM – A Southern Market

    Macrons at Yum a Southern Market
    Source: Yum a Southern Market

    Located in Middleburg, Yum is the premier bakery serving Clay County and beyond since 2015. YUM specializes in baked goods, rustic home décor, gourmet foods, vintage candies, bath and body products, jewelry, candles, and much more.

    Yum Southern Market Address: 420 College Dr, Suite 110, Middleburg, FL 32068

    Just a Pinch Café

    Chicken and waffles at Just a Pinch Cafe
    Source: Yelp

    Just a Pinch Café, in Fleming Island, blends Hawaiian fare and Southern cuisine into delicious meals, and they treat all their customers like friends. The café is open from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm Wednesday through Friday, and from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. 

    Just a Pinch Café Address: 1615 County Rd 220, Suite 180, Fleming Island, FL 32003

    Pinglehead Brewing Company

    Pinglehead Brewing Company Pizza
    Source: Yelp

    Pinglehead Brewing Company has been making beer in Orange Park since early 2011.  Built inside Brewer’s Pizza, Pinglehead Brewing is Clay County’s only true brewpub.

    The flagship brew, Pinglehead Red Ale, is a favorite with brewpub customers, friends, neighbors, and visitors. Brewer’s Pizza is a place where you can relax while they prepare and serve the best specialty pizza and beer in Clay County and North Florida.

    Pinglehead Brewing Company Address: 14B Blanding Blvd, Orange Park, FL 32073

    G’s Slow-Smoked BBQ

    Slow Smoked BBQ on the grill from G's Slow Smoked BBQ
    Source: G’s Slow Smoked BBQ

    As you make your way from South Orange Park to Middleburg, you don’t want to miss this slow-smoked quality barbeque, winner of the Reserve Grand Champions, Jacksonville Backyard BBQ Championship 2009.

    Family-friendly with a kids menu and house-made sauces, G’s Slow Smoked BBQ owner and staff will treat you like a beloved local.

    G’s Slow-Smoked BBQ Address: 1282 Blanding Blvd, Orange Park, FL 32065

    No Trip is Complete Without a Good Cup of Joe

    Royal Moose Coffee Co Clay County
    Royal Moose Coffee Co.

    Clay County is home to eight independent Coffee Shops offering some of the finest craft coffees in northern Florida. 

    Spring Park Coffee

    Spring Park Coffee setup
    Source: Spring Park Coffee

    You will usually find the locals at Spring Park Coffee in Green Cove Springs.

    Besides the handcrafted coffee, specialty lattes, and house-made pastry Spring Park Coffee offers free coffee every day to anyone with the ‘Name of the Day’ written on their chalkboard outside.

    Spring Park Coffee Address: 328 Ferris St, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043

    Crazy Beans Coffee

    Coffee and a brownie at Crazy beans Coffee
    Source: Crazy Beans Coffee

    Crazy Beans Coffee is a locally owned Coffee Shop offering ethically-sourced coffee from around the world.  In the morning, settle in for a cup of specialty coffee and an artesian pastry or also a hearty breakfast sandwich. 

    Gourmet sandwiches and local treats are available for a more leisurely afternoon lunch or snack.

    Crazy Beans Coffee Address: 1545 County Rd 220, Fleming Island, FL 32003

    The Urban Bean Coffeehouse Cafe

    The Urban Bean Coffeehouse Cafe
    Source: The Urban Bean Coffeehouse Cafe

    The Urban Bean Coffeehouse Cafe is family owned and operated coffeehouse café in the heart of Orange Park. Enjoy specialty and hand-brewed coffees, organic teas, and a menu that features all-day breakfast items, salads, and also signature deli sandwiches.  You can find

    The Urban Bean Coffeehouse Café Address: 2023 Park Ave, Orange Park, FL 32073

    Royal Moose Coffee Company

    Royal Moose Coffee Company sandwich and coffee
    Source: Royal Moose Coffee Company

    Royal Moose Coffee Company greets you with a moose statue when you arrive outside their building.  From traditional cappuccinos to chai lattes, Moose Mocha, or just a cup of coffee, you can add breakfast with cinnamon rolls, muffins, and also croissant sandwiches all day.

    Royal Moose Coffee Company Address: 2441 Blanding Blvd, Middleburg, FL 32068

    FirePower Coffee Roasters

    Firepower coffee
    Source: Firepower coffee

    Also not to be missed on your trip around Clay County is FirePower Coffee Roasters in Keystone Heights. A real family business, the Beck family welcomes you with a selection of brewed coffees from around the world.

    You are encouraged to sample specialty and organic teas from Two Leaves with various package sizes to enjoy at home.

    FirePower Coffee Roasters Address: 322 SE Highway 100, Ste. D, Keystone Heights, FL 32656

    A Salute to Military History

    Military Vehicles at Northeast FL Tanks
    Military Vehicles at Northeast FL Tanks

    During WW II, Clay County Florida’s military population grew so large that it was designated as the home to more military bases and training centers than any other location in the United States. 

    Among the military bases located in Clay County was Lee Field, a WW II Naval Air Station, now decommissioned, to train Navy and Marine flight personnel. 

    Military Museum of North Florida

    The Military Museum of North Florida
    Source: The Military Museum of North Florida

    Located on the old Lee Field site is The Military Museum of North Florida.  While visiting the Military Museum of North Florida, pick up a copy of “Clay County’s Military Trail” map.  Travel across the county, locating military sites from the Second Seminole Wars (1835-1841) to the present.

    Some locations no longer have facilities in place.  The Museum is open Thursdays through Saturdays from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm and Sundays from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm. 

    The Military Museum of North Florida Address: 1 Bunker Avenue, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043

    Camp Blanding

    Military Museum items
    Camp Blanding

    Home to the largest Infantry Training Base during World War II, Camp Blanding was opened in 1939 on the shores of Kingsley Lake. The site provided housing for over 90,000 troops that trained there.

    Camp Blanding Army Base
    Source: Camp Blanding Army Base

    Additionally, Lee Field, located in Green Cove Springs, served as a flight training center. Today, the Camp Blanding Joint Training Center is the primary military reservation and training base for the Florida National Guard, both the Florida Army National Guard and certain non-flying activities of the Florida Air National Guard.

    The Camp Blanding Museum and Memorial Park

    Camp Blanding Museum
    Source: Camp Blanding Museum

    This museum and park are free, open to the public, and very kid-friendly with hands-on exhibits. Contained in one of Camp Blanding’s restored World War II buildings, the museum traces the history of both Camp Blanding and the Florida National Guard. The Museum’s Library and Archives are available to visitors, although serious research sessions require an appointment. 

    tent at Camp Blanding Museum
    Source: Camp Blanding Museum

    Outdoor exhibits and displays include equipment and Army, Navy, and Air Force aircraft from World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Cold War, and also Operation Desert Storm. This also includes captured Soviet-manufactured Iraqi equipment from the latter conflict. 

    Camp Blanding Museum statues
    Source: Camp Blanding Museum

    The Camp Blanding Museum and Memorial Park is open from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm every day, except Christmas and New Year’s Day.

    The Museum Address: Building 3040 Tallahassee St, Starke, FL 32091 (904) 533-3196.

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