Fall in Clay County feels like a breath of fresh air. The summer heat gives way to comfortable afternoons and crisp evenings, making it the perfect season to slow down and soak in Florida’s natural beauty. Locals and visitors alike know that fall here is the sweet spot, when you can hike without breaking too much of a sweat, spot migrating birds overhead, and enjoy outdoor events without the intensity of summer heat and crowds. Whether you’re here for a weekend escape or looking for new ways to spend the season, Clay County has plenty of outdoor adventures to explore while the weather is perfect!
Hiking, Birdwatching, and Other Fun Outdoor Activities
One of the best ways to take advantage of the season is by visiting some of our favorite parks, forests, and conservation areas. Clay County has no shortage of scenic spots.
Camp Chowenwaw Park (Green Cove Springs)
At Camp Chowenwaw Park, families, solo adventurers, and birdwatchers will find plenty to love. This sprawling park sits where Black Creek meets the St. Johns River, offering nature trails, shaded boardwalks, and a wildlife sanctuary teeming with seasonal activity. It’s also home to some of the most unique camping options in the county, including rustic treehouses perched among the oaks. Campsite fire rings mean cool fall nights, telling ghost stories, and eating s’mores! Paddlers can launch from the park’s kayak ramp to glide through calm waters while spotting herons, egrets, or even a curious manatee.
Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park (Keystone Heights)
Over in Keystone Heights, Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park showcases one of Florida’s most diverse landscapes. Here, ravines carved by spring-fed creeks give way to rolling sandhills and hardwood forests that blaze with seasonal color. Fall birdwatching is a highlight, as migrating warblers and thrushes pass through. Hikers can tackle more than five miles of the Florida National Scenic Trail or wander shorter loops like the Fern Trail. With both primitive and modern campsites, Gold Head is perfect for weekend camping trips that balance comfort with a sense of cool autumn wilderness.
Jennings State Forest (Middleburg)
For a wilder escape, Jennings State Forest sprawls over 25,000 acres with trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging routes. The Pioneer Trail winds approximately 10 miles through hardwood forests and past small waterfalls — a rare sight in Florida! Primitive camping here draws adventurous hikers looking for quiet nights under the stars. Fall is also a great time to explore by kayak, with streams flowing along the forest’s edge.
Belmore State Forest (Starke)
Nearby Belmore State Forest offers similar serenity and low crowds. Its trails are less traveled, making it an excellent choice for birdwatching or simply savoring the peace of an autumn afternoon. Floodplain forests, sandhills, and flatwoods create a dynamic environment where you might spot everything from deer to sandhill cranes.
Bayard Conservation Area (Green Cove Springs)
The Bayard Conservation Area is another gem, perfect for birdwatching. Hugging the St. Johns River with trails for hiking and horseback riding, this spot is a favorite for migratory birds, thanks in part to its diverse ecosystems. Primitive campsites tucked into the trees provide a simple but rewarding overnight option, while river overlooks offer peaceful spots to pause and take in the scenery.
Doctors Lake Park (Fleming Island)
And for those who prefer a mix of paddling and fishing, Doctors Lake Park is a must-visit. Its boat ramp and kayak launch make paddling easy, whether you bring your own kayak or rent one from the on-site PADL station. It’s also a popular spot for fishing because of its 320-foot fishing pier, especially in the fall when cooler water draws more activity. Pack a picnic and you can spend an entire afternoon enjoying both the covered pavilions and the calm waters of this Fleming Island favorite.
Fall Weekend Markets
Of course, fall in Clay County isn’t just about hiking boots and campfires — it’s also about community gatherings that bring a festive spirit to the season!
3rd Saturday Market in the Park (Green Cove Springs)
The 3rd Saturday Market in the Park transforms Walnut Street into a hub of local flavor each month. Browse fresh produce, homemade goods, and creative crafts in a pet-friendly setting.
Fleming Island Saturday Market (Fleming Island)
On the first Saturday of the month, the Fleming Island Saturday Market sets up at the Village Square Shopping Center. This monthly event is a great way to discover local vendors, from food trucks to handmade jewelry makers, all in a casual, welcoming atmosphere.
Food Truck Friday (Green Cove Springs)
From March through November, Food Truck Friday fills Spring Park with the delicious smells of everything from barbecue to international street food. Held on the first Friday of the month, it’s paired with live music and the riverfront backdrop of the St. Johns — an unbeatable setting for a relaxed fall night out.
Orange Park Farmers’ Market (Orange Park)
On the first and third Sunday of the month (excluding March and October), the Orange Park Farmers’ Market sets up in Town Hall Park. With more than 75 vendors, it’s easy to spend a cozy autumn morning wandering through booths piled high with seasonal produce, fresh-baked goods, unique art, and locally made crafts. Food trucks and live entertainment round out the experience, making it a fun outing for families or couples.
Play a Round of Golf
If your idea of fall outdoors leans more toward manicured greens than woodland trails, Clay County’s golf courses are ready to impress!
Fleming Island Golf Club (Fleming Island)
At Fleming Island Golf Club, tree-lined fairways and water features create a challenging but enjoyable course for players of all levels. The on-site Hibernia Pub makes it easy to grab a post-game meal or drink without leaving the course.
Eagle Harbor Golf Club (Fleming Island)
Eagle Harbor Golf Club combines a beautiful course layout with a full-service experience. After a round, golfers can relax at Talons, the club’s restaurant, which serves hearty meals perfect for recharging after 18 holes.
Eagle Landing Golf Club (Orange Park)
Eagle Landing Golf Club is designed with the community in mind, making it a great option for families. The course accommodates a range of skill levels, so beginners won’t feel out of place while seasoned golfers still find a rewarding challenge.
Magnolia Point Golf Club (Green Cove Springs)
And for a touch of Southern charm, Magnolia Point Golf Club delivers. Rolling fairways are framed by moss-draped oaks and magnolias, and the welcoming clubhouse and pub are inviting spots to recap the day with friends or family.
Fall in Clay County is all about balance. The season is an opportunity to enjoy cooler air, slower days, and the kind of outdoor experiences that feel both refreshing and restorative. Whether you’re hiking through the trails of Gold Head, casting a line at Doctors Lake, wandering a bustling farmers’ market, or playing an early morning round of golf, you’ll find that the season brings out the very best of this corner of Northeast Florida. So grab your walking shoes, your paddle, or your golf clubs, and get outside while the weather is perfect!