Faver-Dykes State Park

Faver-Dykes State Park borders Pellicer Creek from the forest above its headwaters to where it empties into the Matanzas River. This is an area of wetlands and pine-and-hardwood forest with lots of birds and other wildlife. Spring and fall migrations bring in more than one hundred species of birds but the white-tailed deer, river otters, bobcats, hawks and wild turkeys hang out year round.

Pellicer Creek is a designated canoe trail and the park offers canoe rentals. Picnicking, fishing, hiking, biking and a full-facility campground are also offered. The campground has 30 sites in a shady hardwood hammock setting. Each site has water, electric, a picnic table and an in-ground fire circle with grill. The sites are separated from each other by strips of vegetation. The campground has central restrooms and showers, some universally accessible. There is also a central RV dump station. Maximum RV length: 30 feet. There is also a primitive youth camping area with water pump, fire circle and pit toilet. The youth group area can accommodate up to 50 campers. Call for reservations and fees.

Faver-Dykes State Park has two half-mile nature trail loops but hikers and bikers also have access to several miles of park access roads and back woods roads. Before hiking/biking the back woods roads, let park staff know.

Most of the picnic facilities are located along Pellicer Creek. There are scattered picnic tables and grills but only two pavilions, one of which is rentable. Call the park for info. There are restrooms and a children's playground in the picnic area.

There is a boat ramp for canoes, kayaks and small boats on the side of Pellicer Creek. Near the boat ramp is a restroom.

Faver-Dykes State Park is open for day users from 8 am until sunset every day of the year. Entry Fees: $5 per vehicle with two to eight occupants. $4 for single occupant vehicles. $2 each for pedestrians, bicyclists or extra passengers. You'll want exact change because you'll probably be paying into an honor box. Camping Fees: $18 per site per night (plus tax), includes water and electric. Canoe Rentals: $5 per hour (plus tax). $25 for 5 hours or more (all day - plus tax). Call the park to reserve canoes.

To get there: Get off Interstate 95 at exit 298. That is at the intersection with US Highway 1. Go north on US 1 for about 300 yards and turn east on Faver-Dykes Road. It's 1.5 miles from that turn to the park entrance.