Summary:
This is a nice quiet (except for that cat at night) park on a river. The water runs through the swamps of Alabama picking up tannins, which empty into Blackwater Bay, partof the Yellow River Marsh Aquatic Preserve. Flowing through this rich vegetation turns the water a deep black that gives the park its name.

Our space backed right up to the water, but to really enjoy the water the best area is over to a recreation space with an intricate system of boardwalks that lead down to sound bars.

There are two hiking trails, The Chain of Lakes Nature Trail or the Juniper Lake Trail.

Features:
Canoes can be rented from area outfitters. Three day-use areas with restrooms, outdoor showers and picnic tables are located near the beach.

There are two campground loops with 30 campsites featuring water, electricity, picnic tables and a central playground. There's a dump station on the entrance road.

The water fluctuates and conditions may vary on the time of year.

Activities:
Canoeing & Kayaking
Fishing
Full Facility Camping
Hiking/Nature Trails
Pet Camping
Pets - Pet camping is available
Picnicking
Photography
Swimming
Tubing
Wildlife Viewing

Area Attractions:
Big Lagoon State Park, Eden Gardens State Park, Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park, Grayton Beach, Henderson Beach State Park, Navarre Beach State Park, Ponce de Leon Springs State Park, Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, Yellow River Marsh Preserve State Park, Bagdad Village, Blackwater Heritage State Trail

Food & Sundries:
The nearest store is Harold Store. Make a left turn at the main gate and drive 4 miles to Hwy 90. The store is at the intersection. You can get ice, wood, drinks, snacks, and beach supplies at the store. (850) 983-1672.

Directions:
Heading East on I–10 exit 31 (Hwy 87N), 1/2 mile, right turn on Hwy 90E, 7 miles to town of Harold, Left turn onto Deaton Bridge Road, 3 miles to main gate.

Heading West on I–10 exit 45 to town of Holt (blinking light). Left turn onto Hwy 90, Approximately 15 miles to the town of Harold, right turn on Deaton Bridge Road, 3 miles to main gate.

Local Towns:
Fort Walton Beach ,  Gulf Breeze ,  Milton ,  Navarre ,  Pensacola ,  Pensacola Beach ,  Perdido Key

Local Accommodations:
Fort Walton Beach ,  Gulf Breeze ,  Milton ,  Navarre ,  Pensacola ,  Pensacola Beach ,  Perdido Key

Camping & RV:
This 590-acre park offers 30 campsites with electric and water hookups as well as a dump station.

Notes: