Faver-Dykes State Park
Faver-Dykes State Park
Faver-Dykes is over 6,000 acres and is known for being a little off the beaten track. Noted for its natural condition, this serene park borders Pellicer Creek as it winds along the southern boundary of the park. The peaceful setting of this biologically rich area offers the unhurried visitor an opportunity to relax, reflect, explore, discover, and wonder. Camping, nature walks, wildlife watching, fishing, canoeing and picnicking are popular activities. The park has three nature trails and is a popular site for birding. Anglers can launch into Pellicer Creek for both saltwater and freshwater species like spotted sea trout, common snook, large mouth bass, and bream. A boat ramp located in the park allows small boats and canoes access to Pellicer Creek, which is a designated state canoe trail. Visitors can rent canoes at the park.
Campground
A full facility campground is available for overnight stays. Each site has water, electricity, a picnic table, grill, and fire ring. The sites are located in a shady hardwood hammock and natural vegetation buffers are located between most sites. It is $18.00 a night to camp and reservations can be made at reserveamerica.com. A primitive youth camping area provides facilities for up to 100 people, call the ranger station for more information
Hiram Faver
In 1950, Hiram Faver, a former longtime Clerk of the Court in St. John’s County, donated the land to the Florida State Board of Parks and Historic Memorials. The park is named after his parents, Alexander Hall Faver and Florida Dykes Faver. Hiram Faver originally purchased 752 acres near Pellicer Creek because the land was a beloved childhood vacation spot. His parents used to take Hiram and his brothers and sisters to Pellicer Creek for camping, hunting, and fishing. In the early 1900’s, Pellicer Creek was a major fishing destination and it still is today. Hiram Faver was a true ambassador for the environment. He loved enjoying the beauty of nature and wanted to preserve the land for future generations to enjoy. The state park has expanded on the original 752 acres donated and now manages over 6,000 acres of land.
Friend’s of Washington Oaks
The Friends of Washington Oaks is a community based not for profit citizens support organization (CSO) which supports Faver-Dykes State Park and Washington Oaks Gardens State park.. Faver-Dykes like all State Parks, has needs that go beyond the State’s ability to provide funding. CSO’s are designed to help provide volunteers to assist the Park Manager with work projects, to serve as guides, and to promote and develop special events,. A CSO can raise funds; seek and receive grants; accept gifts and bequests of money, tangible property and real property, to benefit the park. One hundred percent of the proceeds from Faver-Dykes events benefit Faver-Dykes State Park. The Friends of Washington Oaks supporting Faver-Dykes are always accepting new members. You can find out how to become a member by calling the park.