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Faver-Dykes State Park and Matanzas State Forest

• Trail guide
• MapQuest location (Matanzas)
• MapQuest location (Faver-Dykes)
• Property map

Size:

Most of these two natural areas are jointly owned by the District and the state of Florida. Faver-Dykes State Park encompasses 5,920 acres and Matanzas State Forest 4,700 acres.

Location:

Southeast St. Johns County, just north of the Flagler County line, between the Matanzas River and U.S. 1.

Description:

This property includes the Matanzas State Forest to the north and Faver-Dykes State Park to the south. Both areas contain extenisve pine plantations but also have quality upland and wetland habitats. The state forest boasts a regionally significant wood stork rookery, has two miles of estuarine marsh on its eastern border, and includes Cedar Creek. The state park also provides regionally significant protection of water resources and a diverse wildlife habitat, with more than two miles along Pellicer Creek.

Wildlife viewing:

Gopher tortoise and Florida black bear have been documented, as well as the wood stork, American eagle, roseate spoonbill and American swallow-tailed kite.

Recreational activities:

1. Hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, fishing, camping, primitive camping, canoeing and nature study. more info
2. Hunting is permitted on the state forest, and canoeing is permitted at the state park.

Restrictions: more info

1. Off-road vehicles (including motorcycles and all-terrain or track vehicles) are not allowed on property.
2. Hunting on the state forest is by permit only.

Access:

The properties are connected by trails, and both are independently accessible from U.S. 1.

For more information:

Contact Faver-Dykes State Park at (904) 794-0997. Access to Matanzas State Forest requires a state forest day-use permit. Call (386) 446-6786.