Faver-Dykes State Park: A Hidden Jewel

A hidden jewel, yes that is Faver-Dykes State Park.  It is in the southern most area of St. Johns County, about 15 miles from historic St. Augustine, FL, and just off the I-95 and US-1 intersection.

Tall grass and Long Leaf Pines
heading into the campground

As you follow the unpaved road that winds into the park you pass tall pines, stately oaks, and palmetto before the road opens to reveal the jewel, Pellicer Creek.

Pellicer Creek
early morning

Pellicer Creek
Late afternoon with approaching rain

When you launch your canoe, kayak, or small boat there are two options... head up river (south west) to the head waters or down stream (east) to the Matanzas River.

Just back from the trip
with the wind now whipping the water

Early Sunday morning we opted to paddle towards the head waters and so headed south west.  The choice was determined by the tide, approaching full, and the wind, a slight breeze from the west.  So, we paddled into the current and wind, hoping to ride the current and wind on the return.  This was an excellent choice because the wind became quite gusty by 11 AM when we returned.  

Yes the wind did pick up by 11 AM.

Now Pellicer Creek twists and turns so regardless of your direction you will encounter wind.  Be certain to check the tides as it is a tidal creek.  Billy is skilled in reading tides and planned our route so the out going tide assisted us on the return.

One of the short hiking trails

As with most parks there is more than just paddling and fishing... you can hike, bicycle, and camp.  Currently are several short nature trails which can be combined with the roads for a fairly long walk.  

Just can't get away from damp trails
Remember, Florida is a Swamp!

On the trail we encountered a prime example of the old turpentine pine.  Much of the south eastern US was planted in pine which was harvested for the oil and lumber.  We often value lighter pine to start fires which is pine filled with the pine oil and sometimes called fat wood.

Pine stump covered with rosin
Every heard of lighter pine?
This is a good example

From the campground there is a nice nature trail starting by the campfire circle and loops back around.  This is a delightful trail and made a perfect walk for the cats late in the evening.  Slipjig lead the way trotting along with her tail high in the air and not a care in the world as we strolled along at 10 PM.

Lovely secluded camp sites
in this woodsy campground
at the back of the park.

We can attribute this beautiful park to Mr. Hiram Faver.  Recognizing the historical value and pristine nature of the land and wanting to preserve it for all Hiram Faver donated the land to the state in 1967.  The park was given as a lasting memorial to honor his parents Alexander Hall Faver and Florida Dykes Faver, thus the name Faver-Dykes.  It became the 63rd Florida State Park and is certainly a jewel worth preserving.