Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park
Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park is a public state park in Florida near Keystone Heights in Clay County. Spanning 2,000 acres and established in 1935, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | Florida |
| Nearest City | Keystone Heights |
| County | Clay |
| Park Size | 2,000 acres |
| Established | 1935 |
| Google Rating | ⭐ 4.5/5 (400 reviews) |
| Accessibility | Each campground has its own bathhouse facility with hot showers. The Lakeview bathhouse is fully accessible and sites 58 and 59 are the closest, with paved sidewalks leading from the sites directly to the bathhouse. You can rent an outdoor, covered picnic pavilion for any size group up to 100. Additionally, you can rent the enclosed, accessible recreation hall that comes with a kitchen. There are enough tables and chairs to accommodate up to 75 people. Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park is committed to providing a variety of amenities accessible to all of our visitors. These amenities include: Two fully ADA accessible cabins were built in the 2000s and they each accommodate up to six people. These spacious cabins have a living room/dining room, bathroom, two bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen and a screened porch. There is plenty of parking and multiple facility rental options to choose from. You can rent an outdoor, covered picnic pavilion to accommodate any size group up to 100. Additionally, you can rent the enclosed, accessible recreation hall that comes with a kitchen. There are enough tables and chairs to accommodate up to 75 people. |
Location & Getting There
Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park is located near Keystone Heights, Florida. The park’s coordinates are 29.8500, -81.9667.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to enter a Florida state park?
Most Florida state parks charge $4 to $6 per vehicle (up to 8 occupants). An individual annual pass costs $60, and a family annual pass costs $120, covering unlimited visits to all state parks.
Can I swim with manatees at Florida state parks?
While you cannot swim with manatees (they are protected), several spring parks like Blue Spring State Park offer excellent viewing from boardwalks. Manatees gather in springs from November through March when river temperatures drop.
Are alligators dangerous in Florida state parks?
Alligators are present in virtually all freshwater bodies in Florida. They are generally not aggressive toward humans, but you should never approach, feed, or harass them. Keep children and pets at a safe distance from water edges.
What is the best time to visit Florida state parks?
Winter and spring (November through April) offer the best conditions: pleasant temperatures, low humidity, fewer mosquitoes, and peak manatee viewing. Summer brings extreme heat, humidity, and daily thunderstorms.
Explore More Florida State Parks
Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Florida. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Florida guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
