20 Attractions to Explore Near Palatka-to-Lake Butler State Trail

Keystone Beach/Geneva Jungle is a popular spot in Clay County, Florida for outdoor recreation and fun. Located just five miles northwest of Keystone Heights, the area offers over three square miles of beautiful lakes, rivers and canals with ample opportunities for fishing, kayaking, canoeing and camping. Visitors also enjoy picnicking in the open green spaces or taking advantage of the numerous hiking trails.

Lake Santa Fe,is a breathtaking sight to behold. It has an area of around 4,048 acres, plenty of room for boating, fishing and swimming - although no swimming is allowed. A popular destination for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers, the lake's surroundings are a mix of cypress swamps, marshes and freshwater wetlands that provide a habitat for various species of plants and animals. Thanks to its unique beauty and diverse wildlife, it was declared part of the Florida Lake Protection Act in 2003.

Lake Alto, is breathtaking for both locals and tourists alike with its calm, crystal-clear water surrounded by lush vegetation. It is a popular destination for kayaking, canoeing and fishing. It also makes for a nice peaceful walk or jog around the shore. Those looking to take advantage of the natural beauty can take part in boating tours available from local businesses which give access to smaller lakes connected to Lake Alto as well as some notable landmarks located on its shore.

Santa Fe Lake Park is the perfect sunny escape for locals and visitors alike. The park boasts abundant natural beauty that can be enjoyed from any of the numerous hiking trails, hills, and boardwalks throughout the area. Taking a leisurely stroll around the lake itself is a great way to relax and take it all in, with great fishing spots along the way. A playground provides plenty of fun for kids and families, while birdwatchers are sure to spot a variety of feathered friends.

One of Florida's earliest state parks is Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park. Its amenities, such as cabins, were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.

This beautiful natural area offers visitors the chance to explore both sand pits and hardwood hammocks, providing stunning views from every angle. Visitors can swim or canoe in the serene waters of Lake Johnson and nature lovers can keep an eye out for numerous species of birds and wildlife including deer, wild boars and box turtles. Nature trails abound throughout the park with fascinating displays of plants, trees and foliage accessible at every twist and turn.

Hampton Lake is an amazing destination for anyone looking to explore the outdoors. Located along the Santa Fe River, the lake is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts and a great spot for swimming and boating. The area is surrounded by lush forestlands and near countless natural destinations such as clear springs, wildlife preserves, hiking trails, and picnic areas. Visitors can also observe prominent species, including turtles, alligators, birds of prey, and bald eagles.

Crosby Lake is a stunning lake that over 1,500 acres wide with more than 45 miles of shoreline along two nature preserves and the Bradfords' rural countryside. Its crystal clear waters draw in avid anglers from across the state with its rich fishing grounds where large-mouth bass, bluegill sunfish, channel catfish and crappie can all be caught. Other outdoor recreation opportunities include bird watching at the nearby Orange Creek State Buffer Preserve or skating on one of its many sandbars.

Kingsley Lake in Clay County, Florida is a beautiful oasis situated just outside the city of Jacksonville. This popular recreational spot is a great destination for outdoor activities such as fishing, swimming, canoeing, and kayaking. With its crystal clear blue waters and picturesque scenery, it's no wonder why this lake has become a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Whether you come here for some leisurely fishing or to spend an afternoon on the lake in a kayak or canoe.

Lake Sampson, located is an amazing natural retreat that offers a variety of activities for locals and visitors. Covering nearly 700 acres of protected green space, the lake is home to over seventy-five species of fish and many other aquatic wildlife. Visitors are able to enjoy activities such as fishing, water skiing and canoeing with its miles of picturesque shoreline. Moreover, the surrounding parklands make it easy to explore nature trails or spot local birds and wildlife.

Belmore State Forest consists of two separate tracts totalling 12,262 acres. On the northern side is the Satsuma Tract, which borders Camp Blanding, while on the southern side is a tract of 8,737 acres.

Gainesville Raceway, is one of the best drag racing tracks in the United States. With a 1/4 mile E.T. Drag Strip and a championship road course circuit, it offers a thrilling experience for passionate racers looking to put their driving skills to the test. The 3,000-foot all-concrete drag strip has seen some of the greatest drivers collect wins since its opening in 1969 and mesmerizing crowds along the way. It's also been home to countless NHRA national events.

Hawthorne Historical Museum & Cultural Center features exhibits illustrating the history of Hawthorne, particularly those relating to the military.

Newnans Lake is a gorgeous natural paradise. Its crystal-clear waters span 1520 acres, with 13 miles of shoreline fringed by lush vegetation and flourishing wildlife. Home to bass, bream and catfish, it's the perfect spot for keen anglers. Within this picturesque setting lies Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park. Poised on the edge of the lake, visitors can enjoy a range of activities from bird watching to horseback trails. Primitive campsites are also available.

Newnans Lake State Forest is an outdoor recreation paradise. Known for its gorgeous scenery, excellent swimming and boating opportunities, and dense native forests, it provides a wide variety of experiences that can be enjoyed year round. The lake's varied wildlife attracts dedicated viewers and birdwatchers alike while its thick forests offer the perfect location to embark on a guided hike or find ample places to set up camp. Additionally, the park offers access to nearby springs.

Morningside Nature Center occupies a 416-acre park. Along with the farm and nature centre, Morningside Nature Center's hiking trails explore sandhill ecosystems, pine Flatwoods, bayhead swamps, and cypress domes.

The Lubee Bat Conservancy is devoted to protecting bats and their habitats, both domestically and internationally. The conservancy has significantly grown over the decades, now containing more than 40 acres of lush tropical forest and meadows. The site serves as a research lab and educational center that educates visitors about the importance of bats to our ecosystem. Through rehabilitating injured and orphaned bats as well as breeding endangered species, they strive to protect these animals.

Prairie Creek Preserve is a beautiful and diverse swath of land, which covers more than 8,000 acres and is home to a variety of habitats ranging from cypress swamps to wet prairies and mesic flats. Among the many wildlife that call this area home are alligators, white-tailed deer, bald eagles, and threatened species like the gopher tortoise. It offers visitors plenty for exploration with trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Fishing is also allowed within certain parts.

The Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail is a protected state park with a length of 16 miles (26 km) running from the Boulware Springs Water Works in Gainesville to Hawthorne.

James Douglas Matheson and Augusta Florida Steele Matheson, the daughter of Florida pioneer Augustus Steele, who founded Hillsborough County and Cedar Key, lived at Matheson House.