Three scenic rivers, several lakes, and acres of unspoiled forests make Crestview a paradise for those who live in or visit Crestview. Crestview's location puts it near the cleanest, loveliest canoeing waterways in the state of Florida.

Freshwater anglers will find an abundance of bass and catfish in the lakes and rivers which dot North Okaloosa county. Fishing is especially good on the east side of the Shoal River, as well as in the Blackwater and Yellow River areas.

Blackwater River State Forest:
Located northwest of Crestview, off U.S. 90, the Blackwater River State Forest (957 -- 4201) is the largest state forest in Florida, with 183,153 acres of foliage, including stands of longleaf pine, juniper, oak, magnolia and dogwood. Forest visitors may enjoy camping, fishing, swimming, boating, canoeing, horseback riding, and hiking on nature trails (including the 20 -- mile Andrew Jackson Red Ground Trail). The park's facilities include picnic areas and campsites with grills, electricity, and running water. Pets are prohibited at many of the campgrounds.

Blackwater River runs through the forest and is noted for its clean, clear sandbottom streams and spring -- fed lakes.

Hurricane Lake (in the Blackwater River State Forest) covers 350 acres and is stocked with channel catfish, largemouth bass, bluegill and shellcracker.

Bear Lake is the area's next largest lake and features flooded timbers.

Yellow River
The Yellow River is a faster stream than most in Florida and is moderately difficult. It originates in Alabama, and the portion in that state is an excellent canoe trail.

For the Florida portion of the river, the uppermost access point is just across the Alabama line on Alabama State Road 4. From Crestview (Florida), travel north on SR 85 until you reach Laurel Hill, then west on 85A. This road becomes County Road 20 at the Alabama line. Proceed until you reach Alabama SR 4, then turn west. The river is about another two miles.

Another access point is at Gin Hole Landing, ten miles downstream from US 90. From Crestview, go south on 85. About 3/4 mile past the Shoal River bridge is a graded dirt road to the west. Four and a half miles down this road a non-graded dirt road leads north to the river.

º Home º Homepage Index º Communities
º Computer Store  º E-Mail