Fleming Island Middleburg/Oakleaf 2485 County Road 220 2456 Blanding Blvd Tony Placzkowski 264-2874 282-9771 Jacksonville Westside/Argyle 8333 103Rd St

COMPLIMENTARY

Official Information & Visitors Guide of Clay County, Fla.

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CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 5 Contents Welcome to Clay County...... 8 Welcome from the Clay Chamber...... 10 Family Owned & Operated Top 10 Things to Do in Clay County...... 12 2017 Calendar of Events...... 14-25 Orange Park Kids Fest...... 26 Where Clay CalaVida Music & Arts Festival...... 28 County Eats Town of Orange Park Fall Festival...... 30 Breakfast & Green Cove Springs Christmas Events...... 31 Good Eats Found Here...... 32 Lunch Clay County Restaurants...... 34-41 Meet, Stay & Play...... 42 7 Days A Week! The Firm...... 44 Wings of Dreams Aviation Museum...... 45 5:30am to 2pm Clay County Historic Landmarks...... 46 Clay County Museums...... 47 Daily Breakfast & Lunch Specials Penney Farms...... 48 Variety of Lunch, Sandwich Clay County Recreation & Entertainment...... 50 & Soup Specials Clay County Golfing...... 51 Clay County Community & Neighborhood Parks...... 52-55 Fresh Roast Turkey, Meatloaf Walking Tour of Historic Green Cove Springs...... 56 & Delicious Greek Cuisine, Walking Tour of Historic Keystone Heights...... 57 including Our Famous Spinach Pie Spring Park Pool...... 58 Clay County Boat Ramps & Slip Rentals...... 60 Fresh Seafood Clay County Wildlife...... 62 ON THE COVER COMPLIMENTARY Fresh Fruit Salads & Assorted Muffi ns COVER ART SUBMITTED Official Information & Visitors Guide of Clay County, Fla. Clay County is a haven for those who Kids Menu love nature and the outdoors and is the home of some of the region’s best golf Private Party and courses, public parks and walking & bicycling trails. Add the enjoyment of Meeting Space Available boating, fishing, canoeing or kayaking on our thirty-nine square miles of ANNUAL 2017 Cover Sponsored by: Whitey’sFish Camp Waterfront Dining waterways and you can see why we feel WWW.EXPLORECLAY.COM (see their ad on page 3) Clay County is a pretty special place!

Department of Tourism & Film Development Director - Kimberly Morgan [email protected] Publisher - Jon Cantrell, [email protected] Sales - Peg Oddy, [email protected] Susan Sawyer, [email protected] Hugh Osteen, [email protected] For advertising Sandra Conklin, [email protected] information (904) 264-3200 Creative Services 904-215-1956 Eddie Hodges, [email protected] 3513 U.S. Hwy. 17 Michele McNeill, [email protected] 834 Kingsley Ave., Orange Park Fleming Island, FL 32003 Kathy Roy, [email protected] 6 • EXPLORECLAY.COM LINDA LAKES

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- Clay County locati on on Old Jennings Rd., west of SR-23 NEW HOMES starting from the - Convenient to shopping, restaurants, schools & the new St. Vincent’s Hospital $ Mid 200’s - Ameniti es include: • Gated entrance • Lakeside pavilion, pool & playground • 5 community parks plus green spaces • Conservati on areas Directi ons: South on • Hiking & walking paths Blanding Blvd, west on Old Jennings Rd., • 4 large lakes 3.5 miles on the left • A Pooch Park for furry family members (904) 573-6026 - Open-concept ﬂ oorplans - Low HOA dues and No CDD fees

CGC020880 | SEDA Constructi on Company | Subject to change without noti ce. *See agent for details. www.SEDAnewhomes.com CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 7 Welcome to Clay County

As Chairman of the Clay County Board of Commissioners, I would like to extend a warm welcome to each of you. Located in Northeast Florida, Clay County lies southwest of Jacksonville with the entire eastern border nestled along the banks of the scenic St. Johns River. Within the county’s 640 square miles, you’ll discover natural beauty, rich history and a vast array of natural and agricultural resources minutes away from lively business environments. Founded in 1858, our county has developed into a diverse mixture of suburban and rural areas resulting in a vivid panorama of productive, modern living; superior schools; a well-trained, skilled workforce; bustling retail centers and economic vitality. Clay County is a haven for those who love nature and the outdoors, while being home to some of the region’s best golf courses, public parks and walking & bicycling trails. Add the enjoyment of boating, fishing, canoeing or kayaking on our nearly fifty miles of waterways and you can see why people love Clay County. While you’re in Clay County, we invite you to explore the many experiences we have in our communities. Be sure to enjoy:

• Our rich military history. Whether it’s an historical marker siting the 1716 Fort San Fransisco de Pupo, our Civil War action or the multiple locations used in World War II, like Lee Field, Reynolds Industrial Park and Camp Blanding, we stand by our military’s strength, honor and history. Be sure to visit one of our three area military museums that will engage you in our military story. • Our outdoors and nature by exploring our more than 93,000 acres of parks, 35 miles of trails and 39 square miles of waterways. You’re sure to find some great picture spots. • Shopping and dining at many of our area small businesses. Delicious coffee from local roasters, unique entrees or familiar favorites are served at our locally owned eateries. Looking for that perfect gift or souvenir to remember your visit, our local retailers feature locally made products, repurposed vintage ware, antiques and specialty gifts.

If you run out of time, this trip, please come back to enjoy the uniqueness of the place I call home. I hope you enjoy your time here and look forward to seeing you exploring all that Clay County has to offer throughout the year.

Sincerely,

Wayne Bolla, Chairman • Clay County Board of Commissioners P.O. Box 1366 • Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 • (904) 284-6393 8 • EXPLORECLAY.COM Northeast Florida’s Premier Trust your hair to Orange Park’s only two Indoor Shooting Range & American Board Certifi ed Haircolorists. Firearms Dealer Shoot Happens Here Fully climate-controlled 25-yard, We are a Class III/NFA 12-lane indoor shooting range. dealer Jacksonville’s only indoor range Firearm Training & allowing most rifl es Concealed Carry Classes State-of-the-art, computer Full Line of Firearms & controlled target system for a Accessories realistic ‘Good Guy/Bad Guy’ training situation All Major Manufacturers Machine Guns now for rent Laser Shot Simulator www.OTSrange.com Memberships or Hollywood Hair by Lee Daily Rates Available Hair Co. and Friends 269-7928 264-2244 350 Eldridge Ave. #8 328 Milwaukee Ave. Orange Park Orange Park Centrally located off I-295 & Wells Rd., Orange Park Convenient to all areas of the First Coast 2000 Wells Pond Court (Next to General RV) ” Haircolor is our Passion” (904) 301-0700 Mon. – Fri. 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM • Sat. 10:00 AM - 7:00PM • Sun. 11AM – 6PM Visit us on Facebook

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CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 9 Welcome to Clay County The Gem of the First Coast YMCA OF FLORIDA’S FIRST COAST Welcome to Clay County Florida. It is a beautiful county at just over 600 square miles that is diverse encompassing urban, suburban and rural lifestyles. The natural resources are very beautiful and Clay has a history that attracted the historic families of the Northeast to this area. The St Johns River and Black Creek are notable natural assets of breathtaking scenery and wonderful recreation opportunities. Along with that is a growing network of walking, hiking and bike paths for citizens and visitors to enjoy. Camp Blanding is a large military complex that has played a major role in the defense BEFORE & and preparation of our forces of this great country. Kingsley Lake is a spring fed lake within Camp Blanding’s boundaries and is one of the best bodies of water in the state enjoyed by both county residents and visitors. Clay’s proximity to key logistical infrastructure makes it a great spot to grow business and have opportunities to visit family, recreational and tourist AFTERSCHOOL sites in close proximity or further away. From a business perspective, that is an unmatched potential providing businesses opportunities to start, grow and relocate. PROGRAM The business community is robust and many generations of residents have grown their businesses and families in Clay County. The county is growing with just over 200,000 residents. The 46-mile expressway is currently under construction Before & Afterschool child care is available at more than 40 sites across the First Coast. Please contact and will allow Clay County residents and businesses to connect to I-10 and I-95 within minutes opening up supply lines your nearest Y location for specific details and to and markets with relative ease. The Quality of Life in Clay makes it one of most attractive counties in Florida. Clay is a safe register today. and healthy county. It has a wonderful school system that encompasses public, private and charter opportunities for your children. The local state college has been a leader in preparing the workforce for many years. Speaking of workforce, Clay is a veteran heavy county due to its proximity to NAS Jacksonville, NS Mayport, NS Kings Bay, Camp Blanding Joint Force base, Blount Island USMC facility and the former NAS Cecil which has successfully transitioned to mix of government and public use. DAY CAMP& The Clay Chamber of Commerce has served the business community since 1962 and boasts more than 900 members. We have a full slate of events, programs, councils and education that provide opportunities to have fun, meet the business community and make key contacts. Our Ambassadors are committed to help you acting as liaisons guiding you in your RESIDENT CAMP partnership with the Chamber. Our signature events are a super mix of education, appreciation, fun, networking and friendship making rolled into one. Your investment allows you do many things and get involved as your schedule allows. Whether it’s in Day Camp or resident camp at Camp Our councils and committees are other areas you can get involved and continue your growth in business and life. Immokalee, campers will discover new adventures, interests The chamber provides relocation packages to help welcome you and educate you on Clay County. In addition, our low & skills, build self-confidence, make new friends, and feel a cost health screening is renowned for its snapshot of health you need for sanity of mind and information for the doctor. The sense of achievement. Above all, we focus on fun! testimonials tell the story of its success. Visit our website, www.claychamber.com to learn more and sign up. Our door is always open so stop in so we may assist you as you begin a new phase of your life and career in Clay County. Sincerely, Visit a branch near you or Doug Conkey FirstCoastYMCA.org for more information. Doug Conkey, President • Clay County Chamber of Commerce BARCO-NEWTON FAMILY YMCA DYE CLAY FAMILY YMCA 2075 Town Center Blvd. 3322 Moody Ave. 1734 Kingsley Avenue • Orange Park, FL 32073 • (904) 264-2651 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Orange Park, FL 32065 10 • EXPLORECLAY.COM 904.278.9622 904.272.4304 YMCA OF FLORIDA’S FIRST COAST

BEFORE & AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAM Before & Afterschool child care is available at more than 40 sites across the First Coast. Please contact your nearest Y location for specific details and to register today. DAY CAMP& RESIDENT CAMP Whether it’s in Day Camp or resident camp at Camp Immokalee, campers will discover new adventures, interests & skills, build self-confidence, make new friends, and feel a sense of achievement. Above all, we focus on fun!

Visit a branch near you or FirstCoastYMCA.org for more information.

BARCO-NEWTON FAMILY YMCA DYE CLAY FAMILY YMCA 2075 Town Center Blvd. 3322 Moody Ave. Fleming Island, FL 32003 Orange Park, FL 32065 904.278.9622 904.272.4304 CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 11 Top 10 Things to Do in Clay County

1. Camp in a Camp Chowenwaw Treehouse. 7. Immerse yourself in the arts at Thrasher-Horne 2. See how fast you can go on the Rally Race Car Performing Arts Center & Conference Center’s Course, FIRM, in Keystone Heights. concerts, galleries and more. We are, after all, home 3. Take a dip in the state’s oldest spring-fed swimming to Augusta Savage, the African-American Harlem- pool in Spring Park; it’s been around since 1871 for its Renaissance artist and sculptor, in addition to therapeutic healing and its new renovation will open being home of the legendary Southern Rock bands summer 2017. like Lynyrd Skynyrd, Molly Hatchet and more. 4. Catch a vibrant sunrise over the St. Johns River or 8. Partake in one of our festivals like The Scottish a magnifi cent sunset overDoctor’s Lake. Better yet, Games & Festival, the Clay County Agricultural get out on the 39 square miles of water and with 11 Fair, Orange Park Fall Festival, KidsFest, Con- public boat ramps. Did you know you could rent boats, cert on the Green, CalaVida Arts Festival and kayaks, stand up paddleboards and more from Boat many more. Florida Rentals http://www.boatfl oridarentals.com ? 9. Feeling lucky? Watch and wager on live greyhound 5. Immerse yourself into “old Florida” on our 35 miles racing or play a hand of poker at bestbet Orange of Trails. Park. 6. Take in our rich military history by visiting our three 10. Shop at the Orange Park Mall or our independent military museums: Military Museum of Northeast Flor- shops like Artsy Abode, Arlette’s, Miss Priss Gifts ida, Camp Blanding Museum and Wings of Dreams or any of the many local vintage and antique shops Aviation Museum at Keystone Heights Airport. in the area.

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5 10 CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 13 EXPL RE CLAY COUNTY 2017 Calendar of Events There are many things happening in Clay County! We invite you to enjoy them! Please note that you can find an updated calendar of events at www.exploreclay.com. Also, please note that some events, dates and times are subject to change without notice.

APRIL 1 – 8 - Clay County Agricultural Fair, Clay County Fair- grounds– Entire Grounds – Thrills & Squeals… Kick Up Your Heels. Ten days of educational exhibits, fun and entertainment for the whole family. Evening concert performances by Wynonna, Granger Smith, Chris Lane and Steven Curtis Chapman. www.claycountyfair.org

8 – KidX Easter Eggstravaganza, Orange Park Mall – Join us for our annual Easter egg hunt with over 1,500 eggs to find plus other fun games to enjoy.

15 – 10 - Annual Easter Egg Hunt, Moosehaven - 1 – 9 - The Glass Menagerie,Friday and Saturday perfor- Moosehaven provides a safe and enjoyable Easter tradi- mances are at 8:00 pm, Sunday performances are at 3:00 tion. Each Saturday prior to Easter Sunday, over 18,000 pm, Enjoy this Tennessee Williams classic at the Orange eggs are hidden as part of our annual Easter Egg hunt. Park Community Theatre. http://www.opct.info/ This free event provides an Easter Egg Hunt for various age groups along with: face painting, train rides, bounce 2 - Farmer’s & Art Market, Orange Park Town Hall, 10:00 houses, petting zoo, pony rides, and more! http://www. am – 3:00 pm – Voted Best Farmer’s Market in Northeast moosehaven.org/community-service-events/ Florida! With over 100 vendors selling fresh, local produce and homemade crafts, live music and great food, 21 – Todrick Hall Presents: Straight Outta Oz – 8:00 pm – it’s sure to be fun for the entire family! Our season runs Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts & Conference Center September – June. Join us on the first Sunday of each – Broadway Actor, MTV star, American Idol Finalist and month. www.OrangeParkMarket.com Viral YouTube personality Todrick Hall is putting a new 14 • EXPLORECLAY.COM Offering a close connection to everything that’s possible in medicine.

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Orange Park Pediatrics Baptist Primary Care Mark Bedard, DO Andrew Todd Pinder, MD Stephen Gill, MD John Chan, MD 8355 Merchants Gate Drive Takaya Jones, MD Charles Dellinger, MD Jacksonville, FL 32222 2349 Village Square Parkway Richard Gehret, MD 904.771.2900 Suite 110 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Shiree Sauer, MD David Powell, MD 904.264.6404 Dan Spearman, MD 769 Blanding Blvd., Unit 7 Tracy Tyson, MD Orange Park, FL 32065 H. Dale Boyd, MD Rhonda Woolwine, MD 904.458.4882 Curtis Storm, MD 1747 Baptist Clay Drive Three Locations: Pat Pulwers, MD Suite 340 6353 Argyle Forest Blvd. Michael Stephens, MD Fleming Island, FL 32003 Suite 4 440 Kingsley Avenue 904.264.4405 Jacksonville, FL 32244 Orange Park, FL 32073 904.908.0200 904.264.9293

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CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 15

“twister” on L. Frank Baum’s most classic creation, “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.” With over 20 original songs, Hall brings to life this American Classic like you’ve never seen it before. This summer, you don’t have to go to Oz because “Straight Outta Oz” is coming to you. www.thcenter. org/mainstage.html

22 – Carrie Clarke Day – Clarke House Park, 1039 Kingsley Ave, Orange Park - A Celebration of His- tory in Orange Park. The event will take place at the beautiful Clarke House Park on Kingsley Ave. You will enjoy historic demonstrations, tours, live music, hay rides and, of course, the playground! Admission is free! http://www.townoforangepark.com/depart- ments/economic-community-development/parks- recreation/special-events/carrie-clarke-day/

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16 • EXPLORECLAY.COM 27 – Trace Adkins, Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts Center for the Arts and Conference Center – Ecology Is and Conference Center – Grammy-nominated member Awesome focuses on pollution, conservation of natural of the Grand Ole Opry, TV personality, actor and author resources and the amazing connections that exist in the Trace Adkins’ trademark baritone has powered count- natural world. It features all new music, new tricks, new less hits to the top of the charts and sold over 10 mil- explanations, new Garbage Monsters and a lot of new lion albums cumulatively. His hit list includes “You’re funny stuff. It’s a whole new show with the same eco- Gonna Miss This,” “Ladies Love Country Boys,””Songs logical theme but different content. www.thcenter.org/ About Me,” “Every Light In The House,” “Hillbilly Bone mainstage.html (Blake Shelton & Trace Adkins),” and “Just Fishin’” to name a few. www.thcenter.org/mainstage.html 28 - 29 – Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association – Clay County Fairgrounds – Entire Grounds- The Clay 28 – Steve Trash – Ecology is Awesome, Thrasher-Horne County Cattlemen’s Association and Klein Bros. Pro

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CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 17 EXPL RE CLAY COUNTY 2017 Calendar of Events

Rodeo are excited to bring back the Clay County Cat- 11 – Mom’s Night Out, Orange Park Mall – Celebration tlemen’s PRCA Rodeo, presented by Garber Automall, of moms with free food, drinks and wine samples. Plus to Green Cove Springs! This PRCA sanctioned rodeo enjoy our special pampering station. Lots of giveaways! is a full rodeo with all roughstock and timed events www.orangeparkmall.com/events-news and cowboys and cowgirls from all over the US compet- ing in America’s #1 extreme sport! Come out and bring 13 – Classic Car Show – Moosehaven – Clay County Cru- the family for some good old fashioned wild and west- zers host their 8th Annual “REV IT UP” Car Show. With ern entertainment! www.cccrodeo.com/ hundreds of show cars and trucks, music and drawings this event promises to be a great time. Proceeds benefit MAY local charities. No pets please. www.moosehaven.org 6 – First Coast Hunter Jumpers – Clay County Fair- grounds – Equestrian Facilities 19 – Reel Fun Night, Orange Park Town Hall, 6:00 -9:00 pm - Bring a blanket or a chair, and join us at Town Hall 6, 13, 20 and 27 – Amazing Grace Crop Maze’s Sunflower Park for a movie and fun. All movies are family friendly. Festival – Enjoy picking sunflowers and celebrating spring www.TownOfOrangePark.com at the 2017 Sunflower Festival. www.agcropmaze.com 20 – Northeast Florida Dressage Association - Clay County Fairgrounds – Equestrian Facilities

20 – Armed Forces Day – Military Museum, Green Cove Springs – Free Admission. Military vehicle collector’s show, classic car show, military re-enactor exhibits, military memorabilia and free admission to the museum.

28 - Concert on the Green, St. Johns Country Day School – Bring your lawn chair or blanket so you can soak in the beauty of an outdoor concert by the Jack- sonville Symphony followed by fireworks. www.concertonthegreen.com

29 – Memorial Day Riverfest, Green Cove Springs – Ev- eryone is invited to the 29th Annual Memorial Day Riv- erFest in Spring Park to enjoy the wide range of events including the Opening Ceremonies honoring local veterans. You’ll also delight in the food, arts and crafts booths, live entertainment. The day concludes with an 7 - Farmer’s & Art Market, Orange Park Town Hall, 10:00 amazing fireworks display. am – 3:00 pm – Voted Best Farmer’s Market in Northeast Florida! With over 100 vendors selling fresh, local pro- 29 – Memorial Day Remembrance, Magnolia Cemetery, duce and homemade crafts, live music and great food, Orange Park – The town remembers in an annual Me- it’s sure to be fun for the entire family! Our season runs morial Day service that is held at the Magnolia Cem- September – June. Join us on the first Sunday of each etery on Kingsley Avenue. Join us for a flag ceremony, month. www.OrangeParkMarket.com playing of Taps and words from special speakers.

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CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 19 EXPL RE CLAY COUNTY 2017 Calendar of Events

JUNE more free and low-cost activities than ever before! Ad- 1 – ONECLAY STEM – Robot Rumble – Clay County mission is free! www.Opkidsfest.com Fairgrounds – Exhibit Building – Come watch elemen- tary through high school students compete in a fun Ro- 10 – Clay County Seafood, Barbeque Music Festival – botics Competition. Clay County Fairgrounds – Midway, Exhibit Building - Family event offering barbecue and seafood from some 3 – Touch A Truck Event, Orange Park Mall – Orange of the area’s best vendors with entertainment for the Park Mall and Clay County Emergency Management entire family! team up to help people learn more about emergency pre- paredness and meet courageous representatives from all 10 – KidX Desserts with Dad, Orange Park Mall – Pre- the agencies who help us in times of need while discov- pare for Father’s Day and show your dad some apprecia- ering different kinds of trucks and emergency vehicles. tion with some special treats.

3 – First Coast Hunter Jumpers, Clay County Fair- 16 – Reel Fun Night, Orange Park Town Hall, 6:00 -9:00 grounds – Equestrian Facilities pm - Bring a blanket or a chair, and join us at Town Hall Park for a movie and fun. All movies are family friendly. 3 - 4 – Gun Trader Gun Show – Clay County Fairgrounds www.TownOfOrangePark.com – Exhibit Building #1 - Unlike other promotions, Gun Trader Gun Shows doesn’t fill shows with the typical 17 – Northeast Florida Dressage Association – Clay flea market goods you find at so many shows. Gun Trad- County Fairgrounds - Equestrian Facilities er has put the shooter, hunter and gun collector first. Our vendors bring the finest in firearms, ammo, parts, 20 – Mamma Mia, Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts accessories and more. www.guntradergunshows.com and Conference Center - A mother. A daughter. Three possible dads. And a trip down the aisle you’ll never for- 4 - Farmer’s & Art Market, Orange Park Town Hall, 10:00 get! Over 50 million people all around the world have am – 3:00 pm – Voted Best Farmer’s Market in Northeast fallen in love with the characters, the story and the Florida! With over 100 vendors selling fresh, local pro- music that make Mamma Mia! The ultimate feel-good duce and homemade crafts, live music and great food, show! www.thcenter.org/mainstage.html it’s sure to be fun for the entire family! Our season runs September – June. Join us on the first Sunday of each Mamma Mia! month. www.OrangeParkMarket.com

9 - 10 – Kids Fest “The Fun- nest Event in Town,” has been voted Best Kids En- tertainment two years in a row! Now in its fourth year, this event will be packed with exciting games and activities, fascinating displays, interactive shows, live music, great food and shopping! This event is designed with children 12 and younger in mind. Expect

20 • EXPLORECLAY.COM 24 – Freedom Festival, Orange Park Mall – A great event for the whole family with a concert, fun and games, bounce houses, military museum, food truck wars, musical performances and a fireworks grand finale! Coun- try Star TBD. JULY 4 – American Pride 4th of July, Join the Town of Orange Clay County’s Only Park and Moosehaven on the 4th as we celebrate Amer- Peforming Arts Public School! ica with the American Pride Fourth of July event. The event includes vendors, crafts, food and a spectacular fireworks display over the St. Johns River. Moosehaven ENROLLING NOW handles all of the organizing for this event, more information can be found at: www.moosehaven.org/Group/ Grades K-5 Events.asp FOR YOUR CHILD'S SUCCESS

OPPAA is a "Tui� on Free Public" Charter School Our solid and well trained faculty is geared to work as a team focused on student needs. The administra� on has a highly mo� vated leader with strong instruc� onal leadership training.

Each student has an individual academic plan focused on his or her learning needs.

4 – Our Country Day, Keystone Heights – For more • Computer for every student in every classroom than 40 years, the City of Keystone Heights has invited • Chrome Books for Direct Instruc� onal Access people to their two-day festivities which include a street to educa� onal sites dance, 5k run, baby crawl, parade, dog show, arts & craft vendors, food vendors and an evening fireworks display • Interac� ve Television Systems at Keystone Beach. www.ourcountryday.com • Highly Qualiﬁ ed Interven� on Teachers for students with learning needs

UPHOLSTERY ★ AUTO ★ BOAT ★ HOME COMMERCIAL • New Playground Equipment CLAY COUNTY’S ONLY • New Cafeteria Tables FABRIC STORE • FREE Breakfast & Lunch Debbie’s Decorators Workroom

Custom Upholstery at Reasonable Rates ★ • School Uniform: KHAKI or NAVY bo� oms and ALL IN-STORE FABRICS RESIDENTIAL Polo tops in NAVY, Light Blue or Orange CUSTOM SLIP COVERS CUSTOM ★ 50% OFF Call to schedule your tour today Manufacture Prices (Excludes Silks and Vinyls) 904-282-3229 2494 Blanding Blvd. Suite 10, Middleburg (904) 269-0039

CUSHIONS 1324 Kingsley Ave., Orange Park • OPPAA.org WINDOW TREATMENTS ★ REFINISHING CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 21 EXPL RE CLAY COUNTY 2017 Calendar of Events

4 – Middleburg Independence Day Parade, Middleburg Park for a movie and fun. All movies are family friendly. – This annual event, sponsored by the Middleburg Civic www.TownOfOrangePark.com Association, features an array of marching units, vehicles, floats and horse troops. www.middleburgcivicasso- 11-31 – Shrek – Orange Park Community Theatre – ciation.com Weekend Performances Only www.opct.info

14 – Reel Fun Night, Orange Park Town Hall, 6:00 -9:00 19 - Northeast Florida Dressage Association – Clay pm - Bring a blanket or a chair, and join us at Town Hall County Fairgrounds - Equestrian Facilities Park for a movie and fun. All movies are family friendly. www.TownOfOrangePark.com SEPTEMBER 1-3 – Shrek – Orange Park Community Theatre – Week- 22 - Northeast Florida Dressage Association – Clay end Performances Only www.opct.info County Fairgrounds - Equestrian Facilities 2 - Farmer’s & Art Market, Orange Park Town Hall, 10:00 AUGUST am – 3:00 pm – Voted Best Farmer’s Market in Northeast 11 – Reel Fun Night, Orange Park Town Hall, 6:00 -9:00 Florida! With over 100 vendors selling fresh, local pro- pm - Bring a blanket or a chair, and join us at Town Hall duce and homemade crafts, live music and great food,

PREMIER MULTICULTURAL ARTS EVENT IN CLAY COUNTY Danza Peru

Join us in Historic Green Cove Springs & Spring Park and meet the Musicians, Artists, Dancers, Authors, Poets and Actors. Performances are Free for everyone who attends! For a Complete list of Events and News visit... CalaVida.com

Pierre & Company Red Roots

Tomas Vercher

22 • EXPLORECLAY.COM it’s sure to be fun for the entire family! Our season runs September – June. Join us on the first Sunday of each 5-Star Customer Rating month. www.OrangeParkMarket.com Google+, Angie’s List, Insider Pages, CitySearch, YP.com, Facebook & Yelp OCTOBER 1 - Farmer’s & Art Market, Orange Park Town Hall, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm – Voted Best Farmer’s Market in Northeast Voted one of Award-WinningA Florida! With over 100 vendors selling fresh, local pro- N.E. Florida’s Dentistry duce and homemade crafts, live music and great food, BEST DENTIST –Jacksonville Magazine it’s sure to be fun for the entire family! Our season runs 2010 - 2016 September – June. Join us on the first Sunday of each month. www.OrangeParkMarket.com

Each Friday and Saturday – (6-7, 13-14, 27-28) – Amazing Grace Crop Maze – Amazing Grace Crop Maze provides FAMILY FUN on the FARM in Clay County! Hayrides, cow train, duck races, corn crib, barnyard ball zone & more! http://agcropmaze.com

7 – The 16th Annual Soul Food Festival & Parade, Vera Hall Park, Green Cove Springs – Events will range from live entertainment, health expo, BBQ ribs and sweet potato pie contest, children’s zone/activities and more. Come see us to experience 5-Star, http://www.greencovesprings.com/visitors/festivals/ Award-Winning Dental Care. soul_food_festival.php From Cleanings to Implants & 13-31 – Haunting of Hill House – Orange Park Communi- ty Theatre – Weekend Performances Only www.opct.info Everything in between!

16 – 22 – CalaVida Arts Festival - With the majestic St. Johns River as a backdrop, the CalaVida Arts Festival We can help you, (meaning “Cove Life”) is designed for all ages offering a myriad of arts presentations including both visual and Just give us a call! performance arts. The goal of the CalaVida Arts Festival to offer entertainment for everyone! http://calavida.com Michael D. Vanover, DDS VanoverDentistry.com 784 Blanding Blvd., Suite 110 Orange Park 904-272-2438

CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 23 EXPL RE CLAY COUNTY 2017 Calendar of Events

TBD - Penney Farms Historic 5k Run - Come and celebrate the historic community of Penney Farms by join- ing your fellow runners at the start-line for the Annual Penney Farms Historic 5K Run. Race along the tree- lined residential streets of the J.C. Penney Memorial Scenic Highway loop and visualize the fields and dairy herds that grazed there. In the 1920’s, it is said that a hundred men with their mules tilled the fields of Pen- ney - Gwinn Farm

28 – Green Cove Springs Annual Trunk or Treat – http:// www.greencovesprings.com/visitors/festivals/

31 – 11th Annual Halloween Trick or Treat, Moosehaven - www.moosehaven.org/halloween-trick-or-treat 20-21 - 35th Annual Fall Festival, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Orange Park Town Hall - The Fall Festival started NOVEMBER with 12 vendors and a few guitar players. Thirty-five TBD - Veterans Day Memorial Ceremony years later, our festival has over 200 vendors and two stages packed with entertainment. Attendees will en- 4 - Middleburg Historic Fall Festival & Car Show, Mid- joy a wide variety of food from barbeque and local dleburg Civic Center seafood to fresh baked goods and locally harvested honey. Kids can bounce on inflatables and get their 4 - Farmer’s & Art Market, Orange Park Town Hall, 10:00 faces painted. And, of course, the shopping is second am – 3:00 pm – Voted Best Farmer’s Market in Northeast to none with unique gifts, handmade quilts, pottery Florida! With over 100 vendors selling fresh, local pro- and even treats for your furry friends. Admission and duce and homemade crafts, live music and great food, parking are free! www.OPFallFestival.com it’s sure to be fun for the entire family! Our season runs 24 • EXPLORECLAY.COM September – June. Join us on the first Sunday of each month. www.Orange- ParkMarket.com

11 - Moosehaven Heart of the Commu- nity Chili Cook-Off, Moosehaven – Be sure to attend the 8th Annual Chili Cook-Off, sanctioned by the Interna- tional Chili Society as a Regional Coo- koff. It will be a fun day of music, craft vendors, a car show and some of the best chili around. No pets please. www. moosehaven.org DECEMBER 2 - Farmer’s & Art Market, Orange Park Town Hall, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm – Vot- ed Best Farmer’s Market in Northeast Florida! With over 100 vendors selling fresh, local produce and homemade crafts, live music – Everyone is invited to enjoy a traditional Christmas and great food, it’s sure to be fun for the entire family! parade, food vendors, local restaurants, arts and crafts Our season runs September – June. Join us on the first booths, Jingle Bell Fun Run, pictures with Santa, live Sunday of each month. www.OrangeParkMarket.com entertainment and the Lighting of the City Christmas Tree. http://www.greencovesprings.com/visitors/festi- 2 - Christmas on Walnut Street, Green Cove Springs vals/christmas_on_walnut_street.php Clay County Sheriﬀ ’s Oﬃ ce Proudly Serving and Protecting Clay County

MAJOR INITIATIVES s Crime Reduc� on s Community Engagement

Sheriff Darryl Daniels “We, the men and women of the Clay County Sheriff ’s Offi ce, are keeping YOU informed and engaged. Join us for community walks and business forums in your neighborhood.” Our Community, Our County, Our Responsibility… www.claysheriff .com We’re All In This Together.

CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 25 We can’t think of a better way to kick start the summer than going to Kids Fest, “The Funnest Event in Town!” The Town of Orange Park will host this event at Town Hall Park, 2042 Park AVE, from 10a.m.-3p.m. on June 9 & 10, 2017. Kids Fest has been voted Best Kids Entertainment two years in a row! Now in its fourth year, this two-day event will be packed with kid-friendly fun. Kids and parents alike will enjoy exciting games and activities, fascinating displays, interactive shows, live music, great food and shopping! Check out all the zones during your visit. In the Imagination Station, kids can get into some messy play, become artists and learn a new thing or two. Enjoy some physical activity in the Fit Kids Block and bounce in the Infl atable Zone. Kids can even get up close to some cool vehicles in Touch-a-Truck. Bring your swim suit because you might just get wet, too! This event is designed with kids 12 and under in mind. Expect more free and low-cost activities than ever before! Admission is free! Free parking and a shuttle will be available at Moosehaven. For more information, visit www.OPKidsFest.com.

26 • EXPLORECLAY.COM Roger A. Suggs, CFA, AAS, CCF Clay County Property Appraiser

Announces to Clay County Citizens:

Apply for Homestead Exemption on or before March 1, 2018

Homestead Exemption

If you are a Florida resident and qualify for an exemption, you can have your assessment reduced by up to $50,000. This is a savings of approximately $600 annually based on a full $50,000 homestead exemption in the unincorporated area of Clay County.

You can file for an exemption at one of our two office locations. Please visit www.ccpao.com for a complete list of exemptions.

Main Office: Branch Office: County Administration Building Park Central Plaza

477 Houston Street, 2nd Floor 1518 Park Avenue Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 Orange Park, FL 32073

Telephone: (904) 269/284-6305 www.facebook.com/ccpaofl Telephone: (904) 541-5332 Fax: (904) 284-2923

CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 27 CalaVida Music & Arts Festival was organized in 2014 to recognize and celebrate the importance of the arts. The Festival began with passion and the belief that art has a positive impact on our lives and can positively impact our community. So with big plans and no money, we set out to solicit sponsorships, contact artisans and secure entertainment. Our goals were to supply the community with opportunities to experience a variety of visual, performance and written arts. We celebrate that creative spirit by bringing in artists, not only from our local community, but outside the Michelle Lambert Pierre & Co community as well, so that our residents have an opportunity to experience a vast array of talents. Among our entertainers, there have been African, Scottish Highland, Peruvian and Native American dancers. We have had musical ensembles that vary from Jazz and Celtic to rock and country, spiritual to soul and barbershop to classical. Writers have signed and discussed their books and theatre troupes have thrilled us from the stage. At every event, CalaVida has proudly supported Bright Minds Summer Camp by paying camp tuition of children in Green Cove Springs and this year presented 3 art scholarship awards - 2 Senior awards and one teacher award. Although CalaVida Festival happens only once a year, in RedRoots 2015, we were privileged to host the The Volunteers of the Unied States Army Field Band in Spring Park in October 2015. At CalaVida 2017, we are honored to premier “Savage,” Jason Evans Band an original play by Tony Walsh. “Savage” is based on the life of Augusta Savage, a local sculptor of world renown. Davenia McFadden, who has been in numerous TV shows including MadMen, Glee, All My Children will star. Plans have already begun for CalaVida 2017. Visit CalaVida.com in the Spring to stay up to date on the 2017 CalaVida Events as they are added. Year four is going to be an exciting event so if you would like to be a sponsor, entertainer, vendor or volunteer, please email: [email protected] CalaVida’s mission is to foster and support arts education and provide quality artistic performances and events that promote the historical, cultural and social importance of the diverse community of Green Cove Springs, Florida.

28 • EXPLORECLAY.COM APPLY NOW! Tuition Free Public Charter School Grades K-8

Greatness Starts Here

Clay Charter Academy is proud to serve Clay County. We are a tuition-free public charter school currently accepting applications through 8th grade for the 2017-2018 academic school year. Clay Charter Academy is equipped with cutting edge technology, the Raptor security system, and a spacious outdoor recreation area with sun-shaded playground equipment.

We take your child’s education personally

Every student deserves to be treated as an individual. Our personal learning plans meet students where they are and help them grow. Start your child on the path to greatness, visit our beautiful campus today to learn more !

Our Location

u Why Choose Clay Charter Academy?

N W Personal learning plans to help each student reach their goals.

Nurturing and welcoming academic environment.

l Educators who offer inspired learning opportunities. Secure learning facility. Pine Ridge Parkway Military Family Life Counselor services for military families.

Call or email [email protected] for a personal tour!

We are located at the end of Pine Ridge Parkway, best accessed through the Pine Ridge neighborhood. CLAY CHARTER ClayCharter.org | (904) 406-1607 ACADEMY Proud member of the Charter Schools USA family of schools. 1417 Red Apple Road, Middleburg FL 32068 (end of Pine Ridge Parkway) CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 29 The Town of Orange Park Fall Festival is our most popular event of the year, and draws 40,000 people from all over Florida and Georgia! The Fall Festival was started with only 12 vendors and a few guitar players. Thirty-fi ve years later, this two-day festival has over 200 vendors and two stages packed with entertainment from regional and local artists! The kids can bounce on infl atables in the Kids Zone. And, of course, the shopping is second to none with unique gifts, handmade quilts, jewelry, pottery, and even treats for your furry friends. What’s a festival without great food! Our 30+ food vendors have it covered! Attendees will enjoy a wide variety of food from barbeque and local seafood to funnel cakes and turkey legs. Farmer’s Market fans can even pickup some fresh produce! Admission is free! Free parking and a shuttle will be available at Moosehaven. This year’s Festival will be held on October 21st and 22nd from 10a.m. to 5p.m. at Town Hall Park. Visit www.OPFallFestival.com for more information and don’t forget to like us on Facebook.

30 • EXPLORECLAY.COM EXPL RE CLAY COUNTY Here Comes Santa Claus! “Christmas on Walnut Street” & Christmas Parade For over a decade, the annual “Christmas on Walnut Street” the City Tree at Green Cove Springs City Hall. community event in Green Cove Springs has been a wonderful For further information on “Christmas on Walnut Street” way to usher in the spirit of the holiday season. visit www.greencovesprings.com or contact Kimberly Thomas, Mark your calendar for this year’s festivities and 18th Executive Assistant to the City Manager at (904) 297-7500 Ext. anniversary of the Christmas Festival on Saturday, December 2 3320 or email [email protected] from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Historic Spring Park in the City of Green Cove Springs. The Parade will begin at 2 p.m. and make its way down Magnolia Street and progress through downtown Green Cove Springs ending near Spring Park with the arrival of the “jolly old elf” himself. This year’s theme is “Jingle Bell Rock”. This family-oriented event promises to be loaded with lots of children’s activities including pony rides and a bounce house as well as a chance to visit Santa’s Workshop to have a photo taken with Santa. This year’s “Christmas on Walnut” will include lots of holiday musical entertainment as well as craft and food vendors. The Christmas Parade will be filled with marching bands, antique cars, floats and, of course, Santa! Once again this year, “Christmas on Walnut” will kick-off the holiday season with the lighting of The History of the Green Cove Springs Parade of Trees To remember family loved ones and honor military men and women serving our nation who are unable to be home for Christmas The idea for the Parade of Trees came to Green Cove Springs of Trees with the President of the Green Cove Springs Merchant from Colorado when Mike McNaney stayed at the River Park Association (GCSMA). The Association thought the Parade of Inn in Green Cove Springs and shared a Christmas card with Trees was a wonderful idea and a natural fit for Spring Park and the Inn’s owners depicting a similar event in Colorado. forged ahead with the idea, displaying thirty-three trees that In 2004, the owner of River Park Inn, Pat Sickles first holiday season. Garlinghouse, shared the idea of a Green Cove Springs Parade By 2007, the display grew to 110 trees and the following year to 150 trees in honor of Clay County’s Sesquicentennial (150 years) celebration in 2008 As of 2016, the City of Green Cove Springs graciously became host of this Christmas tradition, along with the continued assistance of Mike McNaney and the Green Cove Springs VIA. Although there is construction in Springs Park this holiday season, the trees will still go up around City Hall and you can view the map and application at www.greencovesprings.com For further information on the 2016 Parade of Trees please contact Kimberly Thomas, Executive Assistant to the City Manager at (904) 297-7500 Ext. 3320 or email kthomas@ greencovesprings.com

CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 31 Good Eats Found Here Clay County has its fair share of independent dining to tantalize your taste buds. Creating a unique dining experience is the goal for each of these restaurant owners. Whether you’re enjoying the comfort of a 100-year family recipe, fused flavor of the islands and the south, the fresh catch of the day, award winning bar-b-que or genuine home-style cooking, you’re in for a treat. So here is a tasty glimpse of the only in Clay County eats. Spring Park Coffee Waterfront dining and seafood have never been so and Urban Bean Coffee good than at Whitey’s Fish Camp. deliver their own unique International flavors pepper Clay County’s landscape twist on coffee. Whether without losing you select the freshly that hometown roasted on site brews at feeling. Akaya Spring Park Coffee or Sushi Grill in the healthier menu op- Oakleaf is a Jap- tions like baked donuts anese Sushi and at Urban Bean Coffee, Hibachi restau- you’ll enjoy their hip rant that deliv- vibe and great service. ers a work of art, If you’re looking both with their for the good Southern art deco décor standby of bar-b-que, then you’re in luck. Clay County is and their menu. Italian food lovers will boast about their home to award winning bar-b-que. You’ll get vastly dif- meals at The Pasta Market or Joey Mozzerella’s, both in ferent experiences but the food is consistently top-notch. Orange Park. If you’re looking for some Cajun style food, Check out G’s Slow Smoked BBQ locations in Green Cove look no further than Mackey’s Munchies in Fleming Is- Springs and Middleburg or Johnny’s BBQ in Keystone Heights.

land. What do you get when you fuse Pacific Island flavors with good ol’ southern food? You’ll find out when you visit Fleming Island’s Just A Pinch Café. A local must have is Farmhouse Chicken & Donuts featuring the donut chicken sandwich. Yes, you read that 32 • EXPLORECLAY.COM correctly: a large piece of fried boneless chicken breast on a glazed donut bun. Check out the entire menu, including the gourmet donuts. Wanting some entertainment? Enjoy some tapas and wine at Orange Park’s Vino Java Brew House or enjoy locally crafted beer at Brewer’s Pizza, serving their award- winning Pinglehead beer and other local craft brews. LOCATED IN THE HEART OF CLAY COUNTY Not just a restaurant, it’s an experience unlike anything in Florida.

As soon as you walk in you’ll be transported to another place, in another time with full view of some of the most spectacular hand-carved wood, art and decor reminiscent of the 1940’s Louisiana Bayou Enjoy a diverse Family Style Menu with a Cajun fl are, Full Bar, Live Music & Events

Boondock’s Grille & Bar is the area’s newest restaurant serving a menu of American favorites. Nicole’s on the River and Nicole’s in the Country have two locations serving home-style flavors from a staff that is dedicated to making your dinner experience full of southern charm and flavor. Sweet Sensations lives up to their name with dreamy desserts that can accompany the lunch menu varieties that appeal to everyone. The better news, is that this is just a brief overview of our destination’s dining scene. There are many more locally owned eateries that deliver a fantastic experience www.BoondocksRocks.com that you can’t have anywhere else. So get out and enjoy our good eats found only here in Clay County! 2808 HENLEY ROAD • LAKE ASBURY • 904-406-9497 CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 33 EXPL RE CLAY COUNTY

Beer & WineFull Only Service Bar Group Function Entertainment Breakfast Delivery Take-out Private RESTAURANTS Lunch Dinner ORANGE PARK 4 Rivers 220 Park Ave. Bar-B-Que 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 844-4RIVERS Orange Park, FL 32073 Aron’s Pizza 650 Park Ave. Pizzaria/Italian 4 4 4 4 904-269-1007 Orange Park, FL 32073 Big Dawgs Family Sports Restaurant 1330 Blanding Blvd. Varied 4 4 4 4 904-272-4204 Orange Park, FL 32073 Bojangles Chicken n’ Biscuits 492 Blanding Blvd. Varied 4 4 4 4 904-213-1139 Orange Park, FL 32073 Bongo’s Restaurant 2177 Kingsley Ave. Ste 12-13 Varied 4 4 4 4 904-272-7100 Orange Park, FL 32073 Brewer’s Pizza 14B Blanding Blvd. Varied 4 4 4 4 904-276-5159 Orange Park, FL 32073 Canalli’s Pizza 1045 Blanding Blvd. Italian 4 4 4 4 904-276-4242 Orange Park, FL 32065 Chili’s Grill & Bar 1664 Wells Road Varied 4 4 4 4 904-264-6907 Orange Park, FL 32065 China 1 868 Blanding Blvd. Chinese 4 4 4 904-272-8880 Orange Park, FL 32065 The Club Continental 2143 Astor Street Varied 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 904-264-6070 Orange Park, FL 32073 Country Cabin Restaurant 950 Blanding Blvd. Varied 4 4 4 904-272-0522 Orange Park, FL 32073 Cracker Barrel 4272 Eldridge Loop Family 4 4 4 4 904-264-2292 Orange Park, FL 32073 Crafty Crab 950 Blanding Blvd. Seafood 4 4 4 4 904-579-3913 Orange Park, FL 32065 Eagle Landing Country Club 3989 Eagle Landing Pkwy Varied 4 4 4 4 4 4 904-291-5600 Orange Park, FL 32065 El Apache 922 Blanding Blvd. Mexican 4 4 4 4 4 4 904-276-7074 Orange Park, FL 32065 Five Guys (Orange Park Mall) 1910 Wells Road Burgers 4 4 4 904-637-0414 Orange Park, FL 32073 Famous Sandwiches & Subs 862 Blanding Blvd. Sandwiches 4 4 4 4 4 904-579-3151 Orange Park, FL 32065 Five Star Pizza 1045 Blanding Blvd. Italian 4 4 4 4 904-276-4445 Orange Park, FL 32065 Foo Wong Garden 1206 Park Avenue Chinese 4 4 4 4 904-278-0806 Orange Park, FL 32073 Golden Corral Buffet 582 Blanding Blvd. Varied 4 4 4 904-272-0755 Orange Park, FL 32065

34 • EXPLORECLAY.COM EXPL RE CLAY COUNTY Beer & WineFull Only Service Bar Group Function Entertainment Breakfast Delivery Take-out Private RESTAURANTS Lunch Dinner The Greek Village 868 Blanding Blvd. Greek 4 4 4 4 4 904-276-0222 Orange Park, FL 32065 Grumpy’s 834 Kingsley Avenue Varied 4 4 4 904-215-1956 Orange Park, FL 32073 Hardee’s of Orange Park 491 Blanding Blvd. Drive In 4 4 4 4 904-272-0754 Orange Park, FL The Hilltop Club 2030 Wells Road Varied 4 4 4 4 4 904-272-5959 Orange Park, FL 32073 Hooter’s of Orange Park 1740 Wells Road Varied 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 904-215-5858 Orange Park, FL 32073 Hop Shing 5000 Hwy 17, South Chinese 4 4 4 4 904-637-0088 Orange Park, FL 32003 IHop 315 Blanding Blvd. Varied 4 4 4 4 904-272-0690 Orange Park, FL 32073 Joey Mozzarella Italian Restaurant 930 Blanding Blvd. Italian 4 4 4 4 4 4 904-579-4748 Orange Park, FL 32065 Kyodai Sushi Rock Japan Steakhouse 1861 Wells Road Japanese 4 4 4 904-215-8228 Orange Park, FL 32073 La Nopalera 1930 Kingsley Avenue Mexican 4 4 4 4 904-276-2776 Orange Park, FL 32073 Little Caesars Pizza 661 Blanding Blvd. Italian 4 4 4 904-276-2075 Orange Park, FL 32073 The Loop in Orange Park 550-1 Wells Road Varied 4 4 4 4 4 904-269-0756 Orange Park, FL 32073 Luca’s Italian Restaurant 1339 Blanding Blvd. Italian 4 4 4 904-375-9191 Orange Park, FL 32065 The Lunch Box Deli 1890 Kingsley Ave Sandwiches 4 4 4 904-579-4918 Orange Park, FL 32073 Manila Thai 1540 Wells Road, Ste 11 Filipino/Thai 4 4 4 4 904-579-4507 Orange Park, FL 32073 Metro Diner 2034 Kingsley Ave. Varied 4 4 4 4 904-375-8548 Orange Park, FL 32073 Miller’s Orange Park Ale House 1756 Wells Road Varied 4 4 4 4 904-278-4600 Orange Park, FL 32073 Moe’s Southwest Grill 1910 Wells Rd. (OP Mall) Mexican 4 4 4 904-637-2299 Orange Park, FL 32073

CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 35 EXPL RE CLAY COUNTY Beer & WineFull Only Service Bar Group Function Entertainment Breakfast Delivery Take-out Private RESTAURANTS Lunch Dinner Pasta Market Italian Restaurant 1930 Kingsley Ave. Italian 4 4 4 4 904-276-9551 Orange Park, FL 32073 Pengree’s Restaurant 556 Kingsley Avenue Varied 4 4 4 904-278-0089 Orange Park, FL 32073 The Pig 1330 Blanding Blvd. Bar-B-Que 4 4 4 4 904-213-9744 Orange Park, FL 32073 Pompeii Pizza 2134 Park Avenue Italian 4 4 4 4 904-264-6116 Orange Park, FL 32073 Roadhouse 231 Blanding Blvd. Varied 4 4 4 4 4 4 904-264-0611 Orange Park, FL 32043 Rosina Pizza 1580 Wells Road Italian 4 4 4 4 4 904-264-3050 Orange Park, FL 32073 Ruby Tuesday 1760 Wells Road Varied 4 4 4 4 4 904-278-5351 Orange Park, FL 32073 Salsa’s 1635 Wells Road Mexican 4 4 4 4 904-579-3579 Orange Park, FL 32073 Sam’s St. Johns Seafood 1464 Park Ave. Seafood 4 4 4 4 4 904-269-1460 Orange Park, FL 32073 Sorbello’s 195 Blanding Blvd. Italian 4 4 4 4 4 904-269-3000 Orange Park, FL 32073 Shrimp Shack 646 Blanding Blvd. 4 4 4 904-276-7425 Orange Park, FL 32073 Sonny’s Bar-B-Q 1976 Kingsley Avenue Bar-B-Que 4 4 4 4 904-272-4606 Orange Park, FL 32073 Steak ‘N Shake 1681 Wells Road Varied 4 4 4 904-264-2649 Orange Park, FL 32073 Subway 195 Blanding Blvd. 4 4 4 904-276-2026 Orange Park, FL 32073 Texas Roadhouse 550 Blanding Blvd. Varied 4 4 4 4 4 904-213-1000 Orange Park, FL 32073 T.G.I. Fridays 1910 Wells Rd. (OP Mall) Varied 4 4 4 4 904-215-7030 Orange Park, FL 32073 Tropical Smoothie 266 Blanding Blvd Healthy 4 4 4 4 4 904-644-7353 Orange Park, FL 32073 Thai Basil 1075 Oakleaf Plantation Pkwy Thai 4 4 4 904-282-6880 Orange Park, FL 32073 Thai Café 1177-4 Park Ave. Thai 4 4 4 4 904-541-0204 Orange Park, FL 32073 Thai Garden 10 Blanding Blvd. Thai 4 4 4 4 904-272-8434 Orange Park, FL 32073 The Urban Bean Coffeehouse Cafe 2023 Park Ave. Coffee/Varied 4 4 4 4 904-541-4938 Orange Park, FL 32073 Vino Java Brew House 636 Kingsley Ave. Tapas 4 4 4 904-458-4546 Orange Park, FL 32073 Vito’s Pizzeria 1101 Blanding Blvd. Italian 4 4 4 904-272-9119 Orange Park, FL 32073 Zaxby’s 390 Blanding Blvd. Varied 4 4 4 904-295-2728 Orange Park, FL 32073 36 • EXPLORECLAY.COM EXPL RE CLAY COUNTY Beer & WineFull Only Service Bar Group Function Entertainment Breakfast Delivery Take-out Private RESTAURANTS Lunch Dinner FLEMING ISLAND Bono’s BBQ Eagle Harbor 1765 Town Center Blvd. Bar-B-Que 4 4 4 4 904-269-8870 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Brick Oven Pizzeria & Gastropub 1811 Town Center Blvd. Italian 4 4 4 4 4 904-278-1770 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Chili’s Grill & Bar 2005 East-West Pkwy Varied 4 4 4 4 904-264-8412 Fleming Island, FL 32003 First Wok 2574 C.R. 220 Chinese 4 4 4 904-272-7738 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Five Guys C.R. 220 Burgers 4 4 4 904-592-4896 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Golf Club at Fleming Island 8.5 Mi. S. of I-295 on US 17 Lunch/Sun.Brunch 4 4 4 4 4 904-269-1440 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Hot Wok 1615-155 C.R. 220 Chinese 4 4 4 4 904-278-4088 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Hurricane Grill & Wings 1810-1 Town Center Blvd. Varied 4 4 4 4 4 904-644-7315 Fleming Island, FL 32003 IHop 1825 East – West Pkwy Varied 4 4 4 4 904-215-9564 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Island Life Grill 2245-3 Plantation Center Dr. Varied 4 4 4 4 4 904-215-4243 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Jersey Mike’s Subs 1647 CR 220 Sandwiches 4 4 4 904-264-2100 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Just A Pinch Cafe 1811 Golden Eagle Way Southern/Hawaiian 4 4 4 4 904-651-0705 Fleming Island, FL 32003 La Nopalera 1571 C.R. 220 Mexican 4 4 4 4 904-215-2223 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Longhorn Steakhouse 1605 C.R. 220 Varied 4 4 904-375-9191 Fleming Island, FL 32003

CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 37 EXPL RE CLAY COUNTY Beer & WineFull Only Service Bar Group Function Entertainment Breakfast Delivery Take-out Private RESTAURANTS Lunch Dinner LQ Ice 1545 C.R. 220 #111 Smoothies/Juice Bar 4 4 4 904-579-3801 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Ice Cream Parlor Mackey’s Munchies 1431 Golden Eagle Way New Orleans 4 4 4 904-458-4246 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Margarita’s 3535 US Hwy 17 Mexican 4 4 4 4 904-375-9395 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Moe’s Southwest Grill 1544 C.R. 220 Mexican 4 4 4 904-637-0080 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Mojo Smokehouse 1810 Town Center Blvd. Bar-B-Que 4 4 4 4 904-264-0636 Fleming Island, FL 32003 New York Pizza 1811 Golden Eagle Pkwy. Italian 4 4 4 4 4 904-579-3488 Fleming Island, FL 32003 O’Charleys 1609 C.R. 220 Varied 4 4 4 904-264-2673 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Pita Pit 1810-5 Town Center Road Sandwiches 4 4 4 4 4 904-579-4930 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Ruby Tuesday 1521 C.R. 220 Varied 4 4 4 4 904-269-6900 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Saigon Tokyo Bistro 1560 Business Circle Dr. Vietnamese, Chinese 4 4 4 904-579-3004 Fleming Island, FL 32003 & Japanese Santioni’s 3535 US Hwy 17, Ste 15 Italian 4 4 4 904-264-1331 Fleming Island, FL 32073 Shoreline Seafood Shack 1615 C.R. 220 Seafood 4 4 4 904-637-1481 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Steak ‘N Shake 1607 C.R. 220 Varied 4 4 4 904-830-4541 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Sushiya 1615-150 C.R. 220 Japanese 4 4 4 904-215-7988 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Sweet Frog 1581-100 C.R. 220 E Yogurt 4 4 904-215-1300 Fleming Island, FL 32003

38 • EXPLORECLAY.COM EXPL RE CLAY COUNTY Beer & WineFull Only Service Bar Group Function Entertainment Breakfast Delivery Take-out Private RESTAURANTS Lunch Dinner Talon’s Restaurant 2217 Eagle Harbor Pkwy American 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 904-269-9300 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Taps Bar & Grill 1605 C.R. 220 Varied 4 4 4 4 904-278-9421 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Tijuana Flats C.R. 220 Mexico 4 4 4 4 904-264-1766 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Tropical Smoothie 5000 U.S. Hwy 17 Healthy 4 4 4 4 904-375-0959 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Whitey’s Fish Camp 2032 C.R. 220 Varied 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 904-269-4198 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Your Pie 1545 C.R. 220 Pizza 4 4 4 4 4 904-375-9771 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Zaxby’s 1525 C.R. 220 Varied 4 4 4 904-269-2911 Fleming Island, FL 32003 GREEN COVE SPRINGS/ LAKE ASBURY Boondocks Grill & Bar 2808 Henley Road Family/Cajun Flare 4 4 4 4 4 4 904-406-9497 Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 China Wok 3450 Hwy 17 Chinese 4 4 4 904-529-8668 Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 Corky Bells Seafood & Steaks 1049 Lloyd St. Varied 4 4 4 904-284-1379 Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 D’Fontana 324 Ferris Street Italian 4 4 4 4 904-529-5515 Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 The Deli (Inside Gas Shell Station) 410 S. Orange Ave. 4 4 4 Green Cove Springs, FL G’s Slow Smoked BBQ 414 Walnut St Bar-B-Que 4 4 904-531-5980 Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 Hardee’s of Green Cove Springs 3538 N. Hwy 17 Drive In 4 4 4 4 904-529-9437 Green Cove Springs, FL La Casita 20 N. Orange Avenue Mexican 4 4 4 904-529-9985 Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 Mandarin Wok 422 S. Orange Ave. Chinese 4 4 4 904-284-8060 Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 Master Wok 2851 Henley Road Chinese 4 4 4 904-406-4266 Lake Asbury, FL 32003 Pizza Hut 3534 Hwy 17 Italian 4 4 4 904-284-2244 Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 Ronnie’s Wings & Oysters 232 Walnut Street Varied 4 4 4 4 4 904-284-4728 Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 Spring Park Coffee 328 Ferris St. Varied 4 4 4 4 904-755-6313 Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 Sunrise - Sunset 618 N. Orange Ave. 4 4 4 4 904-531-9624 Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 Sweet Sensations 25 N. Orange Ave. 4 4 904-529-8554 Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 Woody’s Bar B Q 3540 Hwy 17 Bar-B-Que 4 4 4 904-284-1014 Green Cove Springs, FL 32043

CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 39 EXPL RE CLAY COUNTY Beer & WineFull Only Service Bar Group Function Entertainment Breakfast Delivery Take-out Private RESTAURANTS Lunch Dinner MIDDLEBURG Black Creek Café 2696 Blanding Blvd. Varied 4 4 4 4 904-282-7373 Middleburg, FL 32068 Bono’s BBQ 2640 Blanding Blvd., Ste 211 Bar-B-Que 4 4 4 904-282-4288 Middleburg, FL 32068 Cedar River Seafood 2475 Blanding Blvd. Seafood 4 4 4 4 4 904-282-4200 Middleburg, FL 32068 China Café 1545 Brannan Field Road Chinese 4 4 4 904-282-9988 Middleburg, FL 32065 China Wok 2640 Blanding Blvd. Chinese 4 4 4 904-291-6988 Middleburg, FL 32068 Farmhouse Chicken & Donuts 2475 Blanding Blvd., Ste #7 American 4 4 4 904-203-2828 Middleburg, FL 32068 G’s Slow Smoked BBQ 1901 Henley Rd Bar-B-Que 4 4 4 904-406-0524 Middleburg, FL 32068 Hardee’s of Middleburg 2730 Hwy 21 Drive In 4 4 4 4 904-282-1889 Middleburg, FL Huddlehouse 4094 C.R. 218 West Varied 4 4 4 4 904-291-3850 Middleburg, FL 32068 Laredo Mexican 2620 Blanding Blvd. Mexican 4 4 4 904-282-3740 Middleburg, FL 32068 Millennium Pizzeria 2219 C.R. 220 Italian 4 4 4 904-264-4550 Middleburg, FL 32068 Nanna’s Country Café 2710 Blanding Blvd. Varied 4 4 4 4 904-291-4624 Middleburg, FL 32068 Nicole’s in the Country 2216 S. Mimosa Ave. American/Seafood 4 4 4 4 904-406-9491 Middleburg, FL 32068 Nicole’s on the River 1101 Blanding Blvd. American/Seafood 4 4 4 4 904-251-9977 Middleburg, FL 32065

40 • EXPLORECLAY.COM EXPL RE CLAY COUNTY Beer & WineFull Only Service Bar Group Function Entertainment Breakfast Delivery Take-out Private RESTAURANTS Lunch Dinner Peking Gourmet 2710 Blanding Blvd. Chinese 4 4 4 904-282-3851 Middleburg, FL 32068 Dalton’s Sports Grill 2620 Blanding Blvd American 4 4 4 4 4 904-282-1564 Middleburg, FL 32068 Stone E Cabin 4430 C.R. 218 West BBQ 4 4 4 904-282-6700 Middleburg, FL 32003 Tony’s Pizza 2620 Blanding Blvd. Italian 4 4 4 904-406-5646 Middleburg, FL 32068 Tropical Smoothie 1782 Blanding Blvd. Healthy 4 4 4 4 4 904-282-8777 Middleburg, FL 32068 Yama Sushi & Bento 2569 C.R. 220 Japanese 4 4 4 904-375-9777 Middleburg, FL 32068

KEYSTONE HEIGHTS Brooklyn Boys 205 NE Commercial Circle Italian 4 4 4 352-478-8140 Keystone Heights, FL 32656 China Chef 125 East Walker Dr. Chinese 4 4 4 352-473-6333 Keystone Heights, FL 32656 Hardee’s of Keystone Heights 7401 State Road 21 Drive In 4 4 4 4 352-473-7745 Keystone Heights, FL 32656 Johnny’s Bar-B-Q 7411 State Rd. 21 BBQ 4 4 4 352-473-4445 Keystone Heights, FL 32656 Laredo 7380 State Road Mexican 4 4 4 352-473-7877 Keystone Heights, FL 32656 McHenrys Sports Pub 323 NE Commercial Circle Varied 4 4 4 4 352-473-3000 Keystone Heights, FL 32656 OAKLEAF Akaya Sushi-Grill 1075 Oakleaf Plantation Pkwy, Ste 106 Asian 4 4 4 4 904-291-9388 Jacksonville, FL 32065 Bassill’s 6251 Argyle Forrest Blvd., Ste 103 Varied 4 4 4 4 904-778-9090 Jacksonville, FL 32244 Eagle Landing Country Club 3989 Eagle Landing Pkwy Varied 4 4 4 4 4 4 904-291-5600 Orange Park, FL 32065 Gators Dockside 9680-1 Argyle Forrest Blvd. Casual 4 4 4 4 4 4 904-908-4250 Jacksonville, FL 32222 La Nopalera 9734 Crosshill Blvd. (Oakleaf) Mexican 4 4 4 4 904-908-4250 Jacksonville, FL 32222 My Life Pizza 9725 Crosshill Blvd. Italian 4 4 4 4 904-777-3998 Jacksonville, FL 32222 Shut Em Down 6251 Argyle Forrest Blvd., Ste 102 Southern 4 4 4 4 904-503-1979 Jacksonville, FL 32244 Tropical Smoothie 9610 Applecross Rd. Healthy 4 4 4 4 4 904-777-8216 Jacksonville, FL 32222 Vi Tianos 9518 Argyle Forrest Blvd., #C19 Italian 4 4 4 4 4 904-738-8079 Jacksonville, FL 32222 Woody’s BBQ 8540 Argyle Forrest Blvd., Ste 1 BBQ 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 904-503-1979 Jacksonville, FL 32244

CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 41 WWW.EXPLORECLAY.COM MEET, STAY & PLAY IN CLAY (904) 278-3737 LARGEST SIZE IN BANQUET THEATRE CLASSROOM OVERNIGHT NAME OF FACILITY MEETING SQUARE STYLE STYLE STYLE ACCOMODATIONS ROOM FEET SEATING SEATING SEATING ONSITE Starting bestbet (Formerly OP Kennel Club) N/A 125 N/A N/A N/A (904) 646-0001 x4412 Box Headquarters Camp Blanding Training Center 7,383 600 800 400 YES (904) 682-3462 Main Floor

Camp Chowenwaw Park Big Cabin 2,600 150 N/A 150 N/A (904) 529-8058 ext. 3

Clay County Council on Aging Ballroom 2500 260 400 100 N/A (904) 284-3134 Exhibit Clay County Fairgrounds 9,975 700 800 700 N/A (904) 284-6378 Bldg #1 & #3

Clay County Shrine Club Banquet Room 5,000 250 300 300 N/A (904) 226-6518 The Living Club Continental 1,344 100 125 90 YES (904) 264-6070 Room

Country Club of Orange Park The Clubhouse 2,900 240 322 198 N/A (904) 276-7660

Courtyard Marriott Meeting Room 3,500 288 388 241 YES (904) 854-1500

Eagle Harbor Golf & Country Club Florida Room 1,000 110 80 69 N/A (904) 269-9300 Eagle Landing at Oakleaf Plantation (904) 291-5600

Fleming Island Banquet Hall Banquet Room 4,830 200 250 N/A YES (904) 215-8900

Fleming Island Golf Club Clubhouse 1,800 150 200 102 N/A (904) 269-1440

Hilltop Club Grand Ballroom 3,000 240 300 186 N/A (904) 272-1577 Conference Hilton Garden Inn 1,344 64 100 60 YES (904) 458-1577 Room

Holiday Inn Main Ballroom 2,380 125 150 100 YES (904) 562-7400 Recreation Lake Asbury 1,250 104 138 84 N/A (904) 282-1090 Building

Magnolia Point Golf & Country Club Clubhouse 1,500 120 166 102 N/A (904) 269-9276 Community Middleburg Civic Center 1,364 112 150 77 N/A (904) 282-3150 Room

Orange Park Lions Club Hall 2,232 150 240 126 N/A (904) 264-5866 Charlotte Orange Park Women’s Club 2,000 150 150 126 N/A (904) 264-8269 or (904) 269-4041 Weaver Hall

Reynolds Park & Yacht Center Pavilion 2,500 200 277 171 N/A (904) 284-4667

Thrasher-Horne Conference Center Suites A&B 3,360 270 420 230 N/A (904) 276-6762

Winterbourne Inn Salon 1,200 100 138 84 YES (904) 264-2114 Multi-purpose The Party Place 1,000 60 7 40 N/A (904) 707-7315 Room

42 • EXPLORECLAY.COM “All Roads Lead to Stay Suites of America”

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With a stay at Stay Suites of America you’ll be centrally located in Orange Park, conveniently located to I-295, Jacksonville Naval Air Station, Restaurants, Shopping and Entertainment. Accommodations & Ammenities Nightly & Weekly Rates Fully Stocked Kitchen Smoking Rooms Available Microwave & Mini Refrigerator Elevator Coffee Maker Free Wireless Internet 24 Hour Laundry Facility Free Local & Long Distance Calls Free Weekly Housekeeping Fax & Copy Service Pet Friendly (Fees may apply) Cable to include HBO Free Guest Parking

904.264.4616 1656 Wells Road, Orange Park, FL 32073 www.staysuitesofamerica.com of America CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 43 GoRally.com

The Florida International Rally & Motorsport Park is the ideal venue for advanced driver education, special and exclusive corporate events or team building experiences, media and hospitality functions or vehicle test sessions, The FIRM is unparalleled in ﬂ exibility. Rally refers to a form of sprint-style auto racing on a mixed surface racing circuit, fi rst popularized in Europe. The FIRM is one of only three driving schools in the US that off ers true Eu- ropean-style rally training, and their six courses make up the core of what they do. The diverse and challenging terrain also makes it ideal for military training, the other primary element of The FIRM’s business. Their Interna- tional Security Academy off ers high- speed vehicle training, and their property is also home to a shooting range. The RallyPro Performance Driving School at The FIRM off ers a full array of comprehensive, rally-based training courses for both road course and low- traction driving conditions. Students train in our extensive ﬂ eet of 2WD and 4WD rally cars, performance street cars, law enforcement vehicles, SUVs, ATVs and UTVs. The FIRM off ers complete corporate entertainment packages with a multitude of options. Our staff can help you create and manage unique experiences for your guests. An event at The FIRM is guaranteed to provided the best opportunity for stress relief, team building or to pump up the sales and service team with action only available at a full-service motorsport facility. • 400 acres of secured property • Over 20 miles of confi gurable paved, gravel & off -road tracks • 1.6 mile road course • Six rally course stages (11 Miles) • Supermoto track • Half-mile paved karting road course • Shooting center with 6 gun ranges (pistol & carbine) • Safari & obstacle courses • 6,000 sq. ft race/tune shop • Two student classrooms • Private garages and storage 44 • EXPLORECLAY.COM Wings of Dreams Aviation Museum Wings of Dreams Aviation Museum is a rare gem shared geographically with Keystone Heights, Clay and Bradford counties. However, they invite everyone to come see the world class collection of military, aviation and space history they have amassed. Founded in 2005, Wings of Dreams is located at the Key- stone Heights Airport, the former Keystone Army Airfi eld that was established as a WWII Army Air Corp air base. Part of Wings of Dreams’ mission is to preserve the airport’s wartime his- fast and “Fly Into History” Programs. These tory, much of which is unknown or forgotten. events host guest speakers ranging from vet- Over the years, Wings of Dreams has re- erans, to notable aviators, (including Elvis’s ceived donations of all shapes and sizes. Their pilot) and historians. The Fly In Breakfasts are exhibits show the evolution of aviation from held the fi rst Saturday of every month, weather the fi rst powered fl ights, WWI and WWII, to permitting. The breakfast cost is currently only the Space Shuttle Program and Hubble Space $7, and there is no charge to WWII or Korean Telescope. Through these exhibits, their goals are to pre- War veterans. Full museum tours are available after every serve American heritage, present unique educational op- event. portunities and honor veterans and their sacrifi ces made to Wings of Dreams has developed an important collabora- defend and preserve our freedom. tion with the University of Florida Department of Astronomy In 2009, Wings of Dreams was approved by NASA to and its director, Dr. Francisco Reyes. In 2013 that collaboration be a space artifact recipient. Since then, they have arranged created monthly, Saturday evening “Star Parties.” With donat- multiple transports from Houston and Cape Canaveral, to ed high power telescopes and the expertise of Dr. Reyes, visi- bring “home” the only complete (one of only three built) tors of all ages can marvel at constellations in the ever -chang- Space Shuttle Guidance and Navigation Simulator – used to ing night sky. There is no charge to participate in a Star Party, train astronauts to pilot and navigate the Shuttles through but donations are always graciously accepted. Full museum their many missions. They also received one of the only tours are also off ered. remaining “Big Orange” Space Shuttle external fuel tanks, 2015 marked the Tenth Anniversary of Wings of the “backbone” of the Shuttle stack, standing 15 stories tall. Dreams. More amazing artifacts are added regularly to the The last jewel to arrive was the one and only Hubble Space museum’s collection. Wings of Dreams Aviation Museum Telescope Mockup. Its job at the Johnson Space Center is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and still currently op- Neutral Buoyancy Lab pool was to train the astronauts to erates out of a temporary “Field Headquarters” , the future service the Hubble Space Telescope while in orbit around museum site and a corporate aircraft hangar. In its current the earth. Over 60 NASA artifacts have been released to form, Wings of Dreams is already a valued resource in the Wings of Dreams. Many of those would have been thrown Keystone Heights area. However, the museum needs to away or scrapped if Wings of Dreams had not stepped in. spread it’s wings and still seeks the donations and support In 2010, Wings of Dreams launched monthly Fly In (and needed to build the beautiful new exhibit complex, shown Drive In) Breakfasts, featuring a fresh cooked buff et break- in the architectural rendering. The entire three building museum complex and grounds will cover 7.88 acres of land Future Wings of Dreams Air & Space Museum leased from the airport and enable all of the collection to be in one easily accessible location. Join Wings of Dreams for tours and activities that bring history to life and connects individuals and families, espe- cially young people, to America’s unique heritage involv- ing aviation and space – all in the midst of a beautiful, rural area - North Central Florida’s Keystone Heights. For more information and event schedules, call 352-256- 8037. Private tours available by appointment.

CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 45 EXPL RE CLAY COUNTY HISTORIC LANDMARKS

Pe n n e y Fa r m s Club Continental

Clarke Park City of Penney Farms & Club Continental Penney Farms Retirement Community Originally built as the winter home of Caleb Johnson, Clarke Park – State Road 16W and County Road 218 founder of the Palmolive Soap Company. Now a 22-room – 1047 Kingsley Avenue, Orange Park The Penney Farms Retirement Community was founded inn sitting on 27-acres on the St. Johns River in Orange Carrie’s husband, William Clarke, built the house in the by retail magnate, J.C. Penney who developed farms on Park. early 1900’s. Carrie Clarke was a philanthropist who took his large tract of land which became a retirement com- great interest in the Clay County community all of her munity in 1926 for clergy and Christian workers. In Early Florida Village life. In 1998 the house was placed on the U.S. National 1927, the town of Penney Farms was incorporated from Three original turn-of-the century homes, one-room Register of Historic Places. the Retirement Community. A 2.85 mile stretch of State schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, rural church replica, Road 16W running through Penney Farms has recently honey house, corn crib, moonshine still and authentic become part of the Florida Scenic Highway program. turpentine commissary building. Open weekends of Clay County Agricultural Fair at the fairgrounds, State Road Clay County Historic Courthouse 16W, Green Cove Springs. – 915 Walnut Street, Green Cove Springs, Built in 1890, this distinguished structure housed the en- Mineral Spring at Spring Park tire operation of Clay County’s government until 1973. – Magnolia Avenue & Spring Street, Green Cove Springs In 1975, the “old” courthouse was placed on the National Still producing 3,000 gallons of water per minutes, “the Register of Historic Sites. spring” maintains a constant temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit year-round and has a visible depth of 28 feet.

River Park Inn – 103 Magnolia Ave., Green Cove Springs Green Cove Springs Originally a part of the sprawling Victorian-era Claren- don Hotel, the Inn is located adjacent to Spring Park and the mineral spring. City of Green Cove Springs Originally called White Sulfur Springs, the city was re- named Green Cove Springs in 1866. Following the Civil War, the city swarmed with tourists from November through May attracted by tales of the “healing” powers of the city’s warm mineral springs. Numerous homes, churches and landmarks from the 1900s including Civil Clay Historical Triangle war cemetery.

Clay County’s Historical Triangle For over eight decades, the triangle of land in Green Cove Springs formed by Ferris Street, Gratio Place and Walnut Street was the center of all governmental and law St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church enforcement activities in Clay County and is the location of the Historic Courthouse, “Old” Jailhouse and Histori- cal Society Museum. St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church – 6874 Old Church Rd., Fleming Island Clay County Jailhouse Built by Margaret Fleming in the 1870’s. – 915 Walnut Street, Green Cove Springs Built in 1894, the jail was originally red brick. The front Town of Orange Park portion of the structure provided living space for jailers Several homes from the mid-1800s, listed on the Nation- K eystone Inn and their families in addition to law enforcement opera- al Register of Historic Places in Florida, are located in City of Keystone Heights tions. Jail cells were located in the rear of the building. Orange Park including the William Clarke Estate, Wil- Located at the southwestern tip of Clay County, Key- Today, the jailer’s residence houses the Charles E. Merrill liam Helff rich House, Joseph Green House, R.R. Byers stone Heights was settled by Pennsylvanians in the early Educational & Historical Resource Center and the Clay House, John Ferguson House (Winterbourne) and the 1920’s and was named after the Keystone State. County Archives. River Road Historic District. 46 • EXPLORECLAY.COM Black Heritage Museum EXPL RE CLAY COUNTY – Longmire Ave at Hunter-Douglas Park, Middleburg The Museum is housed in a one-room school dating from the late 1800’s. Visits/tours are done by appointment only and include an oral history discussion, photographs and artifacts including homemade toys. Please call (904) 282-4618 MUSEUMS to schedule a tour.

Camp Blanding Museum & Memorial Park – 5629 State Road 16 W, Camp Blanding The Camp Blanding Museum and Memorial Park is owned and operated by the Florida Department of Mil- itary Aff airs. Exhibits include WWII, Korea, Vietnam and Desert Storm artifacts and much more. Hours: Sun- day - Saturday, noon to 4 p.m. For further information call (904) 682-3196.

Wings of Dreams Aviation Museum Middleburg Historical Museum – Keystone Heights Airport, 7100 Airport Rd. This museum commemorates those who fl ew and fought in WWII and their aircraft. Aircraft include a North American B-25 Mitchell Bomber, 1945 Piper L-4J Grasshopper and Korean War Lockheed T-33 Shooting Star jet. Exhibits, uniforms, autographed books, fl ight itineraries and memorabilia. Features the contributions of the Women Airforce Service Pilots. (352) 256-8037, wingsofdreams.org.

Clay County Historical Society & Museum – 915 Walnut St., Green Cove Springs, The Clay County Historical Society displays photo- Clay County Historical Society & Museum graphs and artifacts from the late 19th and early 20th centuries as well as an extensive collection of railroad memorabilia. Open Sundays from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. For further information call (904) 284-9644.

Middleburg Historical Museum – 3912 Section St, Middleburg Depicts an earlier lifestyle of our region as well as In- dian and historical artifacts. Open Sunday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. For further information call (904) 282-5357.

Military Museum of North Florida – 1 Bunker Avenue & State Road 16, Green Cove Springs Exhibits, displays, uniforms, artifacts and military vehi- Camp Blanding Museum & Memorial Park cles. Hours: Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. For further information call (904) 673-7727 or visit www.militarymuseumofnorthfl orida.com.

Girl Scouts Museum – Camp Chowenwaw Park U.S.17 & Ball Road, Green Cove Springs The Girl Scout Museum highlights the beginning of Girl Scouting in Northeast Florida and the history of Camp Chowenwaw during the seventy years it was a Girl Scout Camp. Open the 3rd Saturday of every month from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Call (904) 529-8058. Military Museum of North F lorida CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 47 Penney Farms In 1926, department store pioneer J. C. Penney founded the community of Penney Farms. Initially planned as a farm- ing village, the stock market crash changed his plans and he created a retirement community for clergy, honoring his father who was a minister. Penney Farms includes Penney Re- tirement Community, a 192-acre Christian continuing care community that is home to more about 500 individuals. The community is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Penney Farms is located along State Road 16 in the middle of Clay County, just west of Green Cove Springs. The community is surrounded by lush shade trees coated in Spanish Moss along the J.C. Penney Memorial Scenic Highway. The quiet rural community hosts an annual Christmas parade and several patriotic events throughout the year. Many residents of Penney Retirement Community are active in the town’s affairs, and several serve on the Town Council. The Penney Farms Equestrian Center is a full-service hunter/jumper facility on 45 acres. 48 • EXPLORECLAY.COM Penney Retirement Community Where you can safely and securely age at home, and never worry about moving again.

We are often told we are the best kept secret in Clay County. Tucked quietly in historic Clay County, Penney Retirement Community is a Christian, volunteer-driven, service-centered senior living community. Penney is a Continuing Care Retirement Community, providing residents with the full spectrum of healthcare and home choices, from independent living, to assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing care. With more than 100 clubs and groups on campus, residents have a wide variety of ways to share their time and talents. Last year, they volunteered more than 144,000 hours, both on campus and in the surrounding area. There is a Wellness Clinic, 24/7 Nurse Responders and a Gold-Seal Skilled Nursing Facility on campus. Plus, all the amenities you could want… fitness room, golf course, pool & spa, bike and walking trails, library and more. At a time when many older adults are concerned about living a purposeful lifestyle in retirement, Penney is an affordable, Top: One of Penney’s historic cottage homes. Left: Golfers enjoying the beautiful Christian choice. North Florida climate. Right: Part of Penney’s Railroad Club showing Cub Scouts one of the layouts. We have a place that’s right for you — right now! Call 800-638-3138 or VisitPRC.org

Penney Retirement Community | 3495 Hoffman St./P.O. Box 555 | Penney Farms, FL 32079 | 800-638-3138 | VisitPRC.org CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 49 EXPL RE CLAY COUNTY Recreation & Entertainment Bayard Conservation & Wildlife Man- are required for migratory bird seasons ing camping, swimming, fi shing, biking, 120 shops & stores, food court, AMC 24 agement Area if hunting occurs during any quota pe- horseback riding, trail hiking and wildlife Theatre. Hours: Mon- Sat. 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. The 10,320-acre state preserve and recre- riod. Fishing and frogging are allowed viewing. Sunday Noon – 6 p.m. ation area is located on the west bank of year-round. For further information the St. Johns River in southeastern Clay contact the Florida Forest Service (904) Jennings State Forest bestbet - Orange Park County. Recreational opportunities on 291-5530. The 24,000 acre Jennings State Forest – Park Avenue/ U.S. Highway 17 at I-295, the property include seasonal hunting, is located in northwestern Clay County. Orange Park bank fishing, horseback riding, wildlife Camp Chowenwaw Park Hunting, fi shing, canoeing, hiking, horse- Facility is open year-round with club- viewing, boating and canoeing. – U.S. 17 & Ball Road, Green Cove Springs back riding, nature study and several house and grandstand seating to watch A 153-acre county park located on the miles of trails through the forest. live greyhound racing. Live poker ac- Belmore State Forest & Wildlife Man- south side of Black Creek north of Green tion in the poker room includes Texas agement Area Cove Springs. Camp facilities include a Palatka-Lake Butler State Trail Hold’em, Omaha and 7 Card Stud. – SR21 north of Keystone Heights lodge and cabins, public swimming pool, The 47-mile long rail-trail is being The 8,700 acre forest is managed in fi shing pier on Black Creek, nature cen- constructed on an old rail bed of the Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts cooperation with the Florida Forest ter and trails, canoe launch and dining Norfolk-Southern Railroad and extends – 283 College Dr., Orange Park Service. Recreational opportunities in- pavilions. For camping reservations or from the Palatka area in Putnam Coun- Owned and operated by St. Johns River clude hunting, fi shing,horseback riding, further information call the Park Offi ce ty to the Lake Butler area in Bradford State College, the Thrasher-Horne Cen- hiking, bicycling and wildlife viewing. at (904) 529-8058. County. A 5.5 mile segment of the trail ter for the Arts contains a 1,700-seat main The network of unpaved roads is ideal runs parallel to SR100 in the Keystone theater, 200-seat studio theater and two for hiking, bicycling and horseback rid- Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Heights-Lake Geneva area of Keystone art galleries. Admission to exhibits in ing. From September to March, quota Park Heights. Twin Lakes Park is the main the art galleries is free. The Arts Center hunts take place on limited days. They – SR 21 north of Keystone Heights trailhead for this hiking, jogging or bi- hosts an average of twenty performanc- include seasons for archery, muzzle One of the oldest state parks in Florida cycling location. es per year ranging from off -Broadway loading gun, family hunt, general gun originally developed by the Civilian Con- musicals to Chinese acrobats. Call the and spring turkey. The small game sea- servation Corps in the 1930s. Gold Head Orange Park Mall Center’s Box Offi ce at (904) 276-6750 for son in December and January does not contains several lakes and provides a – Blanding Blvd at Wells Road, Orange schedule of performances and informa- require a quota permit. Quota permits wide variety of outdoor recreation includ- Park tion on ticket prices.

Camp Chowenwaw Park is one of Clay County’s hidden treasures nestled in the Camp Chowenwaw Park woods off of SR17 just outside Green Cove Springs, on Black Creek. It holds a spectacular boardwalk that will take you on an adventure through wetlands where you will fi nd yourself in the middle of Black Creek. You can sit back and enjoy the view, go fi shing or look back towards the shoreline and try to catch a glimpse of a bald eagle resting on a branch. The county park off ers six diff erent cabin style camping areas as well as two separate primitive camping site areas within its 150 acres. It also has three day use buildings available to rent. If you are looking for a venue for an upcoming wedding, baby shower, meeting, class or workshop, birthday party or gradua- tion party we have a beautiful venue to suit your needs. There are plenty of outdoor activities to keep campers and day-use visitors busy including bird watching, picnic pavilions, volleyball court, playground area, hiking trails, boardwalks, fi shing, canoe/kayak launch. Visit our fi sh observatory pond, swim in our pool or schedule a naturalist program for your group. We invite you to come out and see what Camp Chowenwaw Park has to off er. Please visit our website at http://parks.claycounty- gov.com for rental rates or call 904-529-8058. We look forward to seeing you. 50 • EXPLORECLAY.COM “Among The Region’s Best.” Northeast Florida is a golf mecca and was recently named the 2017 North American Golf Destination of the Year by the International Golf Tour Operators Association. Golfers can choose from six courses designed by some of the country’s leading course designers. Don’t think that your only competition is the people in your foursome. Clay County’s courses will challenge you more than you think. Clay County’s greens and fairways invite you to drive and putt our nearly 120 holes of golf. Driving Driving Put Semi- ting Green Private EXPL RE CLAY COUNTY Yardage Private Public range Par

GOLFEagle Landing at Oakleaf Plantation COURSES 3989 Eagle Landing Pkwy. 4 72 7,167 4 4 (904) 291-5600 Orange Park, FL 32065 River Bend Golf Links 659 SR 16E 72 5,350 4 4 (904) 284-8777 Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 Country Club of Orange Park 2525 Country Club Blvd. 4 4 4 72 6,935 4 4 (904) 276-7660 Orange Park, FL 32073 Eagle Harbor Golf & Country Club 1800 Eagle Harbor Pkwy. 4 72 6,840 4 4 (904) 269-9300 Orange Park, FL 32003 Magnolia Point Golf and Country Club (27 holes) 3636 Magnolia Point Blvd. 4 36 3,550 (904) 269-9276 Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 4 36 3,227 4 4 4 36 2,927 The Golf Club at Fleming Island 2260 Town Center Blvd. 4 71 6,801 4 4 (904) 269-1440 Orange Park, FL 32003

CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 51 EXPL RE CLAY COUNTY NATURAL WONDERS Do you ever want to get away from the hustle and bustle to unplug? Escaping is easy when you explore 39 miles of beautiful waterways, hike or bike 35 miles of trails and play fun activities like disc golf, skateboarding, pickle ball and more.

• Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve, • Hunter Douglas Park is a 10 acre neigh- Town of Orange Park: located between the St. Johns River and County Neighborhood Parks borhood park located off Longmire Road the Seaboard Coastline Railroad north in the Middleburg/Clay Hill Planning • Orange Park Athletic Association, lo- of State Road 16 is a 138-acre property • Kingsley Lake Park is located off State District. The park consists of a pavilion cated at 1086 Fromhart Street, is a 26-acre purchased with the assistance of Florida Road 16 A in Kingsley Lake. This is a 1/2 with large picnic areas, one softball field, park with facilities for baseball, T-ball, Communities Trust and will offer nature- acre neighborhood park consisting of a one basketball court, one tennis court, softball, and cheerleading instruction. based and activity-based recreation op- tennis court, a picnic area with a covered and an equipped playground. The park portunities. pavilion, and an equipped playground also provides a large meeting room for • Orange Park Skateboard Place at 106 serving the Keystone Heights Planning use by the community. Fromhart Street, is a 2-acre park with a District. skateboard course, pro shop, and conces- Town of Penney Farms: • Oak Creek Park is a one-half acre park sion stand. • Four Silo Park is located off County located off U.S. Highway 17 in the Flem- • Penney Farms Recreation Center, Road 220 and includes two tennis courts, ing Island Planning District. This park • Clarke House Park, located at 1047 located on Palmetto Avenue, is a 1-acre a basketball court, one softball field, one includes one pavilion, one volleyball Kingsley Avenue, includes an historical park providing picnic and playground volleyball court, three picnic areas, and court, a picnic area, and an equipped house museum, playground, picnic area, facilities. an equipped playground on six acres. The playground. trail, and volleyball court. The park com- park primarily serves the Doctors Inlet/ prises 15 acres. • Penney Farms Tennis Courts is located Ridgewood Planning District. • Doctors Lake Park is located in the adjacent to Town Hall on Clark Avenue. Fleming Island Planning District and • Gano Avenue Park, located on Gano There are 2 tennis courts on the Town • Greenwood Park is a 1.13 acre park lo- provides a picnic area with a covered pa- Avenue adjacent to Orange Park Athletic Hall lot. cated on Evergreen Avenue in the Doc- vilion as well as a 320-foot fishing pier. Association, is a 2-acre park with ten- tors Inlet/Ridgewood Planning This one-acre passive park provides ac- nis courts, picnic pavilions, and a play- District. The park has three pavilions and cess to Doctors Lake for non-motorized ground. City of Keystone Heights: four picnic areas, one basketball court small boats and canoes. and an equipped playground. • Town Hall Park, located at 2042 Park • Keystone Beach, located on Lake Ge- • Main Street Park is located next to the Avenue adjacent to the Town Hall. This neva at the corner of Lawrence Boulevard • Foxridge Community Park is a 2.86 Main Street Boat Ramp in Middleburg is a 7-acre park with a playground and and Lakeview Drive, 1.4-acre historic park acre neighborhood park located in the on the North Fork of Black Creek. The pavilion. offering picnic facilities, playgrounds, Doctors Inlet/Ridgewood Planning Dis- 5.5-acre park includes two pavilions, an volleyball, and swimming in Lake Ge- trict primarily serving residents of the equipped playground, 825 feet of board- neva. Canoes may be launched from the Foxridge subdivision. This park includes walk, and two fishing piers. This park is City of Green Cove Springs: beach. three picnic areas, two tennis courts, and located in the Middleburg/Clay Hill Plan- an equipped playground. ning District. • Spring Park, located on the St. Johns • Theme Park, located at 555 S. Lawrence River between Walnut Street and Ferris Boulevard, is a 2.5-acre park surrounding • Pier Station Park is located in the Pen- • Williams Park is located on Williams Street, is a 5-acre park that includes a his- the City Hall and Keystone Branch of the ney Farms/Lake Asbury Planning Dis- Park Road in the Green Cove Springs toric spring-fed swimming pool, picnic Clay County Library. It offers basketball trict off Pier Station Road. It provides Planning District. This one-acre neigh- pavilions, gazebo, playground, shuffle- courts, tennis courts, playground, picnic a softball field, four picnic areas, an borhood park includes two pavilions, board courts, and fishing pier with boat tables and seating areas. equipped playground, and a combined two picnic areas, and an equipped play- slips. basketball/tennis court. ground. The site is heavily wooded and • Keystone Heights Natural Park, locat- affords a good view of the St. Johns River. • Augusta Savage Friendship Park, lo- ed on Lawrence Boulevard across from • Island Forest Community Park is a 2.8 Williams Park is an ideal spot for picnick- cated at the corner of Walburg Avenue City Hall, is a 2-acre park offering a walk- acre park located in the Fleming Island ing and other passive recreational activi- and Pine Street, is a 0.9-acre park with ing trail through native landscaping and Planning District. The park consists of ties. a playground designed for younger chil- a gazebo for seating or picnics. a volleyball court, equipped playground, dren and families. four picnic areas, three pavilions, and a • Foxmeadow Park is located in the Doc- • Leona F. Terry Azalea Park, located at basketball court. tors Inlet/Ridgewood Planning District. • Vera Francis Hall Park, located on Magnolia and Nightingale Streets, is a The park’s 19.41 acres provide park pa- Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Activities 0.9-acre park offering a fitness trail and • W.E. Varns Park is a 3 1/4 acre neigh- trons with a large covered pavilion, two available at this 12-acre park are bas- gazebo for seating or picnics. borhood park located on Fortuna Drive small pavilions, an equipped playground, ketball courts, volleyball area, nature in the Doctors Inlet/Ridgewood Planning paved walking and fitness trail with trails, toddler playground equipment, • Keystone Heights Recreation Park, lo- District. The park has two tennis courts, a equipment, softball field, soccer field, restrooms, picnic facilities, nature inter- cated at Sunrise Boulevard and Paradise picnic area with covered pavilion, and an and a double tennis court. The site is an pretive center, canoe landing, horseshoe Point Drive, is a 3-acre park offering a equipped playground. The open area sur- ideal spot for many active recreational courts, wheel through bars for climbing fitness trail, picnic area, playground, and rounding the tennis courts would allow activities. and stretching, a new ball field and an dog-park. Future plans include a skate- for on site expansion of tennis or basket- amphitheater. board course. ball facilities. • Ridaught Landing Park is a .92-acre park located on Chief Ridaught Trail in

Orange Park Athletic Association Vera Francis Hall Park

Spring Park Keystone Beach 52 • EXPLORECLAY.COM the Doctors Inlet/Ridgewood Planning • Tanglewood Park is a 12.75 acre park play. The park is leased to the Police Ath- range of recreational resources and ad- District. The Park has an equipped play- located in the Doctors Inlet/Ridgewood letic League of Clay County, and is locat- equately serves the needs of its visitors. ground and basketball court. Planning District, and is leased to the ed in the Orange Park Planning District. The park offers a swimming beach and Fleming Island Athletic Association. The canoe rentals, 6 miles of hiking trails, 7 • Eagle Harbor Park is a 7-acre park lo- park consists of one basketball court, five • Little Rain Lake Park is located off SR miles of equestrian trails, eight pavilions, cated in the Fleming Island Planning baseball fields, two tennis courts, three pa- 21 on Little Rain Lake Road in the Key- two group/primitive camping areas and District. This park contains two basket- vilions with picnic areas, a 10-station fit- stone Heights Planning District. This 74 developed campsites. The Florida ball courts, one picnic area with a covered ness center and an equipped playground. 34.14-acre park is leased by the Keystone Trail traverses the park and is a site on pavilion, and one equipped playground. Recreation Association for youth orient- the Great Florida Birding Trail At this time there is no parking available • Ronnie Van Zant Park is a community ed recreational activities. The facilities at the park. park located off of County Road 739 B include eight baseball fields, an equipped • Camp Chowenwaw County Park is in the Penney Farms/Lake Asbury Plan- playground, a basketball court, a double located north of Green Cove Springs • Deerfield Point Park is located within ning District. This 90-acre park provides tennis court, restroom building, conces- at Ball Road and US Highway 17 at the the Deerfield Point subdivision in the both activity-based and resource-based sion building and two football fields. The Black Creek Bridge in the Green Cove northern portion of the County and facilities. Activity-based facilities in- park was developed with funds from the Springs Planning District. The park was serves the Doctors Inlet/Ridgewood clude a disc golf course, two basketball Florida Recreation Development Assis- purchased in 2006 from the Girl Scouts Planning District. The 1.87 acre park courts, one multi-purpose field, four ten- tance Program and the County Capital of Gateway Council and opened to the includes one basketball court, one pic- nis courts, one softball field, one volley- Improvement Program. public in May 2007. The purchase of this nic area with covered pavilion and one ball court, and an equipped playground. property was made possible through the equipped playground. There are eleven picnic areas with cov- • Twin Lakes Park is located off SR 100 at Florida Communities Trust and the Clay ered pavilion; the two largest pavilions Twin Lakes Road South in the Keystone County Board of County Commission- • Black Creek Park is a 15-acre site in the can be reserved for groups for 40 or more Heights Planning District. This 50-acre ers. The park had served as a camp for Fleming Island Planning District. This for special occasions. Other resource- park is leased to the Keystone Youth Soc- the Girl Scouts for 70 years and retains park serves as a staging area for the Black based facilities consist of nature trails cer Club. The park consists of four soccer several historic structures, some of which Creek Trail, a bicycle/pedestrian trail be- and a large children fishing pond man- fields, a multi-purpose baseball field, an were constructed by the Civilian Conser- tween Green Cove Springs and Orange aged by the Florida Fish and Wildlife equipped playground, a large concession vation Corps in the 1930’s. The park is Park. Currently, there is a paved parking Conservation Commission. Adults may building and a double tennis court. It situated on 150 acres and offers many re- area, a pavilion and a restroom for use by only fish with a child. serves as a trailhead for the Palatka-Lake source-based activities such as camping, the public. Butler State Trail. The park was devel- hiking/nature trails, a fishing pier and • Omega Park is a 16.6 acre community oped with funds from the Florida Recre- boardwalk, bird watching, wildlife view- • Thunderbolt Park is a 5.35-acre park park located on C.R. 218 approximately ation Development Assistance Program ing, and picnicking as well as a recently located in the Fleming Island Planning one mile west of S.R. 21 in the Middle- and the Clay County Capital Improve- refurbished swimming pool, an equipped District. The park includes one equipped burg/Clay Hill Planning District. A lease ment Program. playground, horseshoe pits, canoe/kayak playground and one picnic area with a has been requested by the Middleburg launch and volleyball. Currently there is covered pavilion. This park also provides Association of Athletic Inc. Five baseball • Plantation Sports Complex is a 26.03- a full-time Park Ranger and maintenance multi-purpose athletic practice fields fields surround a large concession facil- acre park located on Old Hard Road in crew to assist with reservations and gen- for use by the public. Due to deed re- ity that allows for league and tournament the Fleming Island Planning District. It eral park maintenance. strictions, this park cannot be leased to competition. This park also includes two is leased to the YMCA. The park consists organized athletic associations for their football fields, one softball field, two ten- of five soccer fields which are also used • Moccasin Slough County Park is locat- exclusive use. nis courts, an equipped playground, and for flag football. ed at Raggedy Point Road and US High- three pavilions with picnic areas. way 17 in the Fleming Island Planning • Lake Geneva Park is a 2.07-acre park • Oakleaf Plantation Community Park is District. The 255-acres were purchased located on Lake Geneva in the Keystone • Carl Pugh Park is located in the Green a 105-acre parcel dedicated to the County with assistance from the Florida Commu- Heights Planning District. While there Cove Springs Planning District and is through the Villages of Argyle Develop- nities Trust, Land and Water Conserva- are no developed facilities at this park, bounded on the south, east, and west by ment of Regional Impact. It is located at tion Fund, North Florida Land Trust, the it provides access to the shore for fish- residential properties, and the north by Branan Field Road and Plantation Oaks Trust for Public Land and other private ing and launching canoes or other non- small commercial and residential uses. Boulevard in the Doctors Inlet/Ridge- funding. The property was developed into motorized small boats. The park is 7 acres and is leased to the wood Planning District. Facilities include a resource-based nature preserve with ad- Green Cove Springs Baseball/Softball multi-purpose fields and baseball fields. ditional recreation facilities including a • Moody Park is a 15-acre parcel located Association. Recreational opportunity is paved trail equipped with an eight station on Moody Avenue in the Doctors Inlet/ limited to one softball field, four baseball Regional Parks include County, State, fitness course, an equipped playground Ridgewood Planning District. Facilities fields, and two tennis courts. and Water Management District proper- and picnic areas. include an equipped playground, two ties that are open to the public for primar- multi-purpose fields. An ADA baseball • Paul C. Armstrong Park is an 18.11 ily resource-based recreation. Access and • Veterans Park is a 641-acre County- field and a large pavilion are scheduled acre park located off CR 220 serving the types of activities allowed are limited on owned tract that was formerly part of to be constructed in Summer 2017. residents of the Doctors Inlet/Ridgewood some properties, yet they all offer oppor- Cecil Field NAS. It is situated on the east Planning District and is leased to the tunities not available at the more inten- side of Jennings State Forest in the Doc- Fleming Island Athletic Association. This sively developed city and county parks tors Inlet/Ridgewood Planning District. County Community Parks park consists of three softball fields, two devoted to sports and playground activi- The property was donated to Clay County tennis courts, two soccer fields, a basket- ties. Most of these properties are includ- by the National Park Service when Cecil • Eagle Harbor Soccer Complex is a ball court, an equipped playground, two ed in the Florida Natural Areas Inventory Field closed. Currently the property has 28.96-acre community park located in volleyball courts, and five picnic areas. database of conservation managed areas. no public road access due to the sur- the Fleming Island Planning District and rounding Cecil Commerce Center, Jen- is leased to the Clay County Soccer Club. • Walter Odum Park is 6.5 acres located • Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State nings State Forest, and a private hunting The park consists of 17 soccer fields, an at the end of Parkwood Avenue and in- Park, the County’s major regional park, preserve. Parks, Recreation and Special equipped playground, and one picnic cludes two picnic areas, one softball field, is located on State Road 21 in the Key- Events staff has been negotiation with area with a covered pavilion. five baseball fields and a football field stone Heights Planning District. The with bleachers for league and tournament park comprises 2,366-acre, offers a wide Continued on next page

Orange Park Skateboard Park Eagle Harbor Soccer Complex

Town Hall Park Jennings State Forest CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 53

Trails

Playground Swimming Tennis Court or Swimming Pool Kayak Launch RV Camping Volleyball Court Basketball Courts Pickle Ball Court Fishing Area / Pier Camping / Cabins / CommunityFootball/Soccer Center Field Park Name Picnic Area/ Pavillion Museum/Nature Center Other Baseball/Softball Fields Boat Slips/ Canoe Landing/ Orange Park Athletic Association ● ● Orange Park Skateboard Park Proshop and Concession Stand Clarke House Park ● ● ● ● Gano Avenue Park ● ● ● Town Hall Park ● ● Spring Park ● ● ● ● ● Shuffleboard Courts Augusta Savage Friendship Park ● Vera Francis Hall Park ● ● ● ● ● ● Horseshoe Pit and Amphitheatre Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve ● ● Penney Farms Recreation Center ● ● Penney Farms Tennis Courts ● Keystone Beach ● ● ● ● ● Theme Park ● ● ● ● Keystone Heights Natural Park ● ● Leona F. Terry Azalea Park ● ● Keystone Heights Recreation Park ● ● Dog Park Kingsley Lake Park ● ● ● Four Silo Park ● ● ● ● ● ● Greenwood Park ● ● ● Foxridge Community Park ● ● ● Pier Station Park ● ● ● ● ● Island Forest Community Park ● ● ● ● W.E.Varns Park ● ● ● Hunter Douglas Park ● ● ● ● ● ● Oak Creek Park ● ● ● Doctors Lake Park ● ● ● Main Street Park ● ● ● Williams Park ● ● Foxmeadow Park ● ● ● ● ● ● Ridaught Landing Park ● ● Deerfield Point Park ● ● ● Black Creek Park ● ● Thunderbolt Park ● ● ● Lake Genva Park ● Moody Park ● ● ● Eagle Harbor Soccer Complex ● ● ● Tanglewood Park ● ● ● ● ● Ronnie Van Zant Park ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● Disc Golf Omega Park ● ● ● ● ● Concession Stand Carl Pugh Park ● ● Paul C. Armstrong Park ● ● ● ● ● ● Walter Odum ● ● ● Little Rain Lake Park ● ● ● ● ● ● Concession Stand Twin Lakes Park ● ● ● ● ● Concession Stand Plantation Sports Complex ● Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park ● ● ● ● ● ● ● Camp Chowenwaw County Park ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● Horseshoe Pit Moccasin Slough County Park ● ● ● Camp Blanding Wildlife Mgmt Area ● ● ● Jennings State Forest ● ● ● ● Black Creek Ravines Bayard Conservation Area ● ● ● ● Clay County Fairgrounds ● ● The Florida Trail ● Black Creek Trail ● Doctors Lake Drive Bike Path ● Palatka-Lake Butler State Trail ● State Road 21 Bike Path ● 54 • EXPLORECLAY.COM the Florida Division of Forestry to deter- Penney Farms/Lake Asbury Planning property adjacent to Cecil Commerce Cen- Cove Springs. Existing trailheads are at mine a plan for access to the property as District. The park is owned by St. Johns ter, approximately 90 acres of which are in Black Creek Park, Thunderbolt Park, and well as timber management. Once access River Water Management District and the Doctors Inlet/Ridgewood Planning Camp Chowenwaw County Park. When is established, the Division will maintain is maintained with assistance provided District of Clay County. Florida Fish and safe road crossing improvements are the facility as a resource-based park with by Clay County Division of Parks, Rec- Wildlife Conservation Commission owns complete, Moccasin Slough County Park picnicking, hiking and equestrian trails reation and Special Events. Black Creek and manages this gopher tortoise mitiga- will also serve as a trailhead and access and wildlife viewing. Ravines is a resource-based park which tion park which offers hiking trails on the will be provided to Knights Marina. provides such activities as hiking and Duval County portion of the property • Camp Blanding Wildlife Management equestrian trails, fishing, and primitive • Doctors Lake Drive Bike Path is a 4.4- Area is located on the Florida National camping. The property offers no boat Recreational Trails mile concrete bike path along Doctors Guard’s Camp Blanding Joint Training Fa- ramps or canoe launches, yet is accessible Lake Drive from Peoria Road to Kingsley cility and is not included in the Clay Coun- from the waters of Black Creek. Off-Road Trails – Off-road recreational Avenue. It is maintained by Clay County. ty Planning Districts. It is a large facility trails that are not enclosed in county or Repairs to deteriorating portions have and serves residents of much of northeast • Bayard Conservation Area is located municipal parks are described below. been proposed and planning funds are in- Florida. This 56,197 facility is managed by on the St. Johns River in the Green Cove cluded in the current Florida Department the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conserva- Springs Planning District. The resource- • The Florida Trail is a National Scenic of Transportation 5-year work program. tion Commission for hunting and fishing. based park contains 10,371-acre which are Trail traversing the length of Florida Boating is allowed on a limited basis at used for hiking, horseback riding, cycling, from Pensacola to Key West. An 18-mile • Palatka-Lake Butler State Trail is two lakeside ramps in the southern part hunting, fishing, picnicking, and primitive segment crosses the southwest corner a proposed Rails to Trails project in of the property. A portion of the Florida camping. The site contains no boat ramps of Clay County through Camp Blanding abandoned railroad right of way from Trail traverses the property. All access is or canoe launches, but is accessible from the and Gold Head Branch State Park. Use Lake City to East Palatka and on to St. on pre-authorized and/or checked-in basis waters of the St. Johns River. The property is restricted to hiking. Trailside primi- Augustine. It will include a paved bike only. An opportunity exists for the County is owned and managed by St. Johns River tive campsites are located on Gold Head path and an adjacent equestrian path. A to fund additional staff time to expand the Water Management District. A portion of Branch State Park and property belong- 5.7 mile segment of the trail was com- access hours at the two boat ramps. the property is closed to hunting, thus open ing to Keystone Airpark. It is managed pleted in 2008 crossing the southwest year-round for general recreation. cooperatively by the Florida Department corner of Clay County through the City • Jennings State Forest located in the of Environmental Protection Office of of Keystone Heights roughly paralleling northwest area of the County in the • Belmore State Forest is a new 12,273 Greenways and Trails and the Florida SR 100. It is to be constructed by Florida Middleburg/Clay Hill and Doctors Inlet/ acre facility in two tracts. The main 8,737 Trail Association. As a National Scenic Department of Transportation and there- Ridgewood Planning Districts, comprises tract off CR 315 in the Keystone Heights Trail, the project as a whole also falls after managed by Florida Department of 22,535 acres in Clay County. This prop- Planning District was purchased in 2005. under federal management by the US Environmental Protection Office of Gre- erty provides resource based recreational The Satsuma Tract comprises approxi- Forest Service. enways and Trails. opportunities including hiking, eques- mately 4,000 acres at the intersection of trian, and cycling trails; hunting, fishing, SR 21 and SR 16 adjacent to Camp Blan- • Black Creek Trail is a 7-mile paved bike • State Road 21 Bike Path is a paved wildlife viewing, primitive camping, and ding in the Keystone Heights Planning path adjacent to US Highway 17 on Flem- 5.5-mile bike path in the SR 21 right-of- canoeing. It is a site on the Great Florida District and was purchased in the fall of ing Island. It was constructed by the Flor- way from the City of Keystone Heights Birding Trail and is managed by the Flor- 2007. The property is managed by the ida Department of Transportation and is to Gold Head Branch State Park. It is ida Division of Forestry. Florida Division of Forestry. maintained by Clay County Division of maintained by the Florida Department Parks, Recreation and Special Events. Ex- of Transportation. Construction began in • Black Creek Ravines is a 964-acre re- • Branan Field Mitigation Park Wildlife tensions are proposed north to the Duval the summer of 2008 and the trail opened gional park located on Black Creek in the and Environmental Area is a 386-acre County line and south through Green for use in February 2009.

CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 55 Self-Guided Walking Tour of Businesses and Historic Homes in Historic Green Cove Springs

Historic Homes 1. Hurley House – 14 St. Johns Ave. 2. E. C. Rawls House – 15 St. Johns Ave. 3. Hyatt House – 218 Palmer St. 4. Forehand House – 217 Center St. 5. Hoyt House – St. Johns Ave. 6. Dunnavant House – 303 N. Magnolia Ave. 7. Green Cove Springs Village Improvement Assoc. 8. Stutts House – 25 Palmetto Ave. 9. Lewis Property – 520 Palmer St. 10. Holmes House – 101 Pine St. (1885 Schoolhouse) 11. Kirkpatrick-Wilcox House – 700 Walnut St. 12. John Slater Smith House – 711 Walnut St. 13. Schultz House – 627 Spring St. 14. Gustafson Family House – Walnut St. 15. River Park Inn – 103 Magnolia Ave. 16. Judge Rivers House – 219 Spring St.

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SW Ja )"01 ID Name Address Year Built Architecture Style sm i ne 01 Lawrence House 580 S Lawrence Blvd 1921 Craftsman Sears Kit Home A v 02 J.M Bergin House 460 SW Magnolia Avenue 1925 Craftsman Bungalow 03 Caughey House 450 SW Magnolia Avenue 1925 Craftsman Bungalow 04 B. Mack House 440 SW Magnolia Avenue 1925 Craftsman Bungalow 05 J & E Bird House 355 SW Magnolia Aveue 1927 Spanish Revival 06 Parks House 160 SW Magnolia Avenue 1926 Spanish Mission 07 Hardware Store 156 S Lawrence Blvd 1926 Locker Room 08 Babbit Drugstore 260 S Lawrence Blvd 1926 Keystone Flooring 09 Dr. Gamble House 205 SE Sylvan Way 1926 Spanish Eclectic 10 S.L. Hart House 350 SE Sylvan Way 1928 Simple Craftsman 11 R.L. Bloss House 525 Live Oak Avenue 1926 Spanish Mission 12 Judge McKlem House 320 Oriole Street 1926 Spanish Mission 13 Dr. Crawford House 540 SE Cypress Avenue 1926 Spanish Mission 14 Houser House 250 SE Lakeview Drive 1925 Craftsman 15 D. Reamer House 465 S Lawrence Blvd 1926 Spanish Eclectic " 16 Cadman House 561 SE Lakeview Drive 1927 Craftsman Bungalow The Keystone Heights Heritage Commission presents: Walking Tour of Historic Homes Keystone Heights was established in 1923 by the Lawrence Developing Com- The town was laid out in 1923 by an unrelated C. Ray Lawrence, also from pany. Its owner, J. J. Lawrence, was from Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. The town was Pennsylvania, who was a retired civil engineer. Streets and alleys as planned to be a vacation spot and health benefits from recreational opportunities, cli- then, exist today. mate and clean water were highly emphasized in sales brochures. Key-stone Keystone’s earliest homes, including that of J. J. Lawrence, are thought to be mail Heights was on the Chatauqua RR Circuit. Citrus and pe-can trees were also order catalogue homes. Some evidence exists in the form of handwritten labels and touted as good investment possibilities. Frank Walrath, a cousin, was head of model numbers on framing. The homes in this tour are from the first building pe- sales for the development company. riod (1921-1929). Initial development stopped when the stock market fell. CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 57 Rentals IT’S ALL ABOUT MAKING MEMORIES ON THE WATER Boat Florida Rentals is the perfect way to spend a day on the water without the hassle associated with boat ownership. If your goal is to relax and have fun while making lasting memories, you came to the right place. Boat Florida Rentals has a complete line of boats to fi t your needs. If you’re looking for water sports, like tubing or wake boarding around the waterways, you want to check out the Stingray Deck Boats. Our pontoon boats provide a more leisurely cruise allowing you to soak up rays and enjoy nature. Boat Florida Rentals makes every eff ort to ensure your boating adventure provides you with the perfect experience. Give us a call to reserve a boat today. Boat rentals start at just $249 for 1/2 a day. BOAT RENTALS Pontoon Boats • Deck Boats • Sport Deck Boats • Tubes • ZUP Boards • Kayaks Spring Park Pool • Standup Paddle Boards (SUP) Revitalizing a Historic part of Clay County Reserve online or The Spring Park Rendition shows so many exciting ing down to the pool where you will find 2 pergolas with call to book your things to come! Not only is the pool itself getting a face lift, tables, chairs and lounging areas! The new building will but the spring has been made to look like it did years ago house locker rooms, showers and an office for the staff. The memory today! with boulders all around it, an overlook for easy viewing, renovations have been a long time coming, and were made and it will be ADA accessible. The “fall out” on the other possible by the Board of County Commissioners and the side of the pool will be similar. There will also be a brand State of Florida! There will be a Grand Opening later in new “spray park” added. From Walnut Street, you will be the year and the citizens of Green Cove Springs will once 3108 US HWY 17 able to walk out on a new covered deck overlooking the again have use of the unique spring-fed pool and facilities pool and park, or use the beautiful spiral staircases lead- in Spring Park! FLEMING ISLAND, FLORIDA 58 • EXPLORECLAY.COM 904.215.5363 • boatfl oridarentals.com Rentals IT’S ALL ABOUT MAKING MEMORIES ON THE WATER Boat Florida Rentals is the perfect way to spend a day on the water without the hassle associated with boat ownership. If your goal is to relax and have fun while making lasting memories, you came to the right place. Boat Florida Rentals has a complete line of boats to fi t your needs. If you’re looking for water sports, like tubing or wake boarding around the waterways, you want to check out the Stingray Deck Boats. Our pontoon boats provide a more leisurely cruise allowing you to soak up rays and enjoy nature. Boat Florida Rentals makes every eff ort to ensure your boating adventure provides you with the perfect experience. Give us a call to reserve a boat today. Boat rentals start at just $249 for 1/2 a day. BOAT RENTALS Pontoon Boats • Deck Boats • Sport Deck Boats • Tubes • ZUP Boards • Kayaks • Standup Paddle Boards (SUP)

Reserve online or call to book your memory today!

3108 US HWY 17 FLEMING ISLAND, FLORIDA 904.215.5363 • boatfl oridarentals.com CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 59 • Magnolia Lake and Lowry Lake Boat Ramps are state-owned facilities on the EXPL RE CLAY COUNTY southern portion of Camp Blanding Wildlife Management Area. Access is • Knight’s Marina and Boat Ramp pro- limited to the hours when Florida Fish Boat Ramps and Marinas vides 3 ramp lanes and is located off US and Wildlife Conservation Commis- Highway 17 at the mouth of Black Creek sion can staff the check station at the • Governors Creek Boat Ramp has two and the St. Johns River in the Green Cove Treat Road entrance to Camp Blanding. lanes and is located east of U.S. Highway Springs Planning District. The parking Currently this is one morning and one 17 on the north bank of Governors Creek. area and the ramps are paved. The ma- afternoon per week. An opportunity The site also offers a fishing pier. This rina includes 40 wet slips, bait shop, fuel may exist for the County to provide addi- ramp is in the Green Cove Springs Plan- sales, vessel pump-out station, fishing tional staff funding to increase the hours ning District. pier, boat loading docks, a covered picnic of operation. As with the published hunt area and restroom facilities. periods on the surrounding Wildlife • Lake Brooklyn Boat Ramp is located Management Area, the boat ramp oper- in the Keystone Heights Planning Dis- • The Lake Shore Boat Ramp provides ating hours are subject to change due to trict and bounded on the west by resi- two ramp lanes and is located at the north- military operations on Camp Blanding dential and the south by State Road 100 erly end of Lake Shore Drive in the Flem- Joint Training Facility. and the Park of the Palms residential ing Island Planning District. It provides community. The ramp and surrounding access to Doctors Lake. The boat ramps Forgot your boat, kayak or paddleboard? Con- Private Boat Ramps area is located beneath a picturesque and parking area are paved. There is also tact Rusty Gardner at Boat Florida Rentals to live oak canopy. Specific parking areas a pier adjacent to the boat ramps for load- find out how to enjoy a day on Clay County’s beautiful waterways. (See advertisment on and Marinas are not delineated and the only paved ing and unloading as well as a fishing pier. previous page for more information) surface is the ramp itself. Due to long- Restrooms and parking are provided. • Doctors Lake Marina includes term low water levels the ramp does two ramps– off U.S. 17 at the Doc- not currently provide boating access to • Main Street Boat Ramp is located at • Shands Boat Ramp and Fishing Pier tors Inlet Bridge in the Fleming Is- Lake Brooklyn. the end of Main Street in the Middleburg is located in the Green Cove Springs land Planning District. It provides Clay Hill Planning District and serves Planning District east of State Road 16. access to Doctors Lake and the St. • Lake Geneva Boat Ramp is located in the Black Creek area. A restroom and It is bounded on the north and south by Johns River. the Keystone Heights Planning District approximately 30 paved parking spaces residential uses. There is paved parking and bounded on the east and west by have been provided. It is adjacent to with overflow. The Pier was destroyed in • Whitey’s Fish Camp Boat Ramp is lo- residential neighborhoods and the north Main Street Park, described above. October 2016 by Hurricane Matthew. cated off Doctors Lake on State Road 220 by State Road 100. The parking area and in the Fleming Island Planning District. ramp are paved. The large, open area • Old Ferry Boat Ramp serves Black • Williams Park Boat Ramp is located The ramp is located on Swimming Pen west of the ramp provides potential room Creek and is bounded on the east and east of County Road 209 in the Green Creek, and provides access to the creek for expansion of recreational facilities west by residential properties. The cove Springs Planning District. The and Doctors Lake. that would complement the boat ramp. ramp and parking area are paved and boat ramp is somewhat isolated and sur- Due to long-term low water levels the marked. Old Ferry Boat Ramp is locat- rounded by wetlands. The ramp is not • Whitney’s Sail Center is located off of ramp does not currently provide boating ed in the Penney Farms/Lake Asbury recommended for boats over 20 feet. It U.S. 17 at the Doctors Inlet Bridge in the access to Lake Geneva. Planning District. is one-half mile from Williams Park. Fleming Island Planning District.

LOCATED AT DOCTORS LAKE MARINA “We’re On 3108 HWY 17, Fleming Island, FL 904-724-1400 The Water” JaxMarine.com

Jacksonville Marine has over 40 years of experience serving Northeast Florida boaters. We are located at Doctors Lake Marina in Fleming Island. We are a premier dealer of Chris Craft, Bennington, Stingray & G3 SunCatcher Pontoon Boats, Yamaha, Mercury and Suzuki Outboard Motors. Located near Jacksonville, Florida, we offer boat service & repairs at our dealership. With the best selection of boats in the business, we are certain to have the perfect boat to meet your needs and fulﬁ ll your dreams. We also feature the ﬁ nest marine power and factory trained service anywhere. Jacksonville Marine invites you to experience a new, fresh approach to boat ownership.

60 • EXPLORECLAY.COM Clay County’s Finest Real Estate

1349 SOUTH SHORE DR. • FLEMING ISLAND Th is is a beautiful park-like property directly on Doctors Lake on a street that is one of the nicest on Fleming Island. 3BD/3BA in the middle of Eagle Harbor w. no fees. $629,000

3528 LULLWATER • ORANGE PARK 6BD/4.5BA over 260 ft. of direct waterfront. TOTALLY REDONE! Th is is an outstanding Drs. Lake Estate on 2.3 acres w/3 car gar. dock, and barn. $1,149,000

702 GOVERNORS CIRCLE • GREEN COVE Th e best pool around! Completely remodeled 3,360 sq ft. home is located on Governors Creek and has new everything! Plus a fantastic edgeless lap pool and view. $695,000

1813 LAKESHORE DR. • FLEMING ISLAND St. Johns River Elegant riverfront pool home situated on a private gated lot. 4BD/3 ½ BA w/dock, cov. slip and 7,000 lb lift. 3 car gar. and excellent river views. $699,990

5561 PINE AVE • FLEMING ISLAND St Johns Riverfront 9.7 acres, over 240 ft. waterfront w/ 4BD/3BA pool home. May be subdivided. $1,195,000

45 JUDSON CIRCLE • ORANGE PARK [email protected] | AVERYSWATERFRONT.COM Riverfront brick home w/sep 1BD cottage and additional 3BD home and sep. garage/shop. (904)955-9055 $810,000 CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 61 EXPL RE CLAY COUNTY TAKE THE HASSLES OUT OF BOATING... LET US LAUNCH, RECOVER AND STORE YOUR BOAT! WILDLIFE Clay County is home to three sites on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail: Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park, Doctors Lake Marina is located Jennings State Forest, and Camp Chowenwaw County Park. At at the mouth of Doctors Lake these and other public lands you may encounter wildlife ranging from migrating songbirds to bats, deer to frogs and alligators. and the St. Johns River Some are more often heard than seen. Others leave traces of their presence: tracks, feathers, burrows, droppings, shed snake skins. in Fleming Island, Florida Let others have the same opportunity as you: leave what you find and take what you bring. Some mammals and birds sharing Clay County public lands with you are listed below. Full Service Marina Mammals: Blue Grosbeak Mourning Dove Black Bear Blue Jay Northern Bobwhite Bobcat Blue-Gray Gnatcatcher Northern Cardinal PROVIDING THE FOLLOWING: Coyote Boat-Tailed Grackle Northern Flicker Eastern Cottontail Brown Thrasher Northern Mockingbird Wet Slips 17' to 70' • Pump Out • Gas & Diesel Fuel Eastern Mole Brown-Headed Cowbird Northern Parula Evening Bat Canada Goose Orchard Oriole Dry Storage On Trailer Free In & Out Service Gray Fox Carolina Chickadee Osprey Laundry • Ice • Restrooms & Showers Gray Squirrel Carolina Wren Ovenbird Marsh Rabbit Cattle Egret Pied-Billed Grebe Nine-Banded Armadillo Chimney Swift Pileated Woodpecker Raccoon Chuck-Will’s-Widow Pine Warbler River Otter Common Grackle Prothonotary Warbler Seminole Bat Common Ground Dove Red-Bellied Woodpecker Sherman’s Fox Squirrel Common Nighthawk Red-Eyed Vireo Southeastern Pocket Common Yellowthroat Red-Headed Woodpecker Gopher Cooper’s Hawk Red-Shouldered Hawk Southern Flying Squirrel Double-Crested Cormorant Ruby-Throated Striped Skunk Downy Woodpecker Hummingbird Virginia Opossum Eastern Kingbird Snowy Egret White-Tailed Deer Eastern Meadowlark Summer Tanager Wild Hog Eastern Screech Owl Swainson’s Thrush Yellow Bat Eastern Towhee Swallow-Tailed Kite Eastern Wood-Pewee Tricolored Heron Birds: Eurasian Collared Dove Tufted Titmouse American Crow European Starling Turkey Vulture American Kestrel Great Blue Heron Veery NOW CARRYING DIESEL FUEL Anhinga Great Crested Flycatcher White Ibis Bachman’s Sparrow Great Egret White-Eyed Vireo Bald Eagle Great Horned Owl Wild Turkey Barred Owl Green Heron Wood Duck Belted Kingfisher Indigo Bunting Wood Stork Black Vulture Little Blue Heron Yellow-Billed Cuckoo Black-Crowned Night Loggerhead Shrike Yellow-Throated Vireo Heron Louisiana Waterthrush Yellow-Throated Warbler Black-Throated Blue Magnolia Warbler Warbler Mallard

3108 US Hwy 17 South • Fleming Island, FL Lat: 30 8’ 41”N Long: -81 42’ 36”W (904) 264-0505 doctorslakemarina.com

62 • EXPLORECLAY.COM CLAY COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE 2017 • 63 Two Centers Under One Roof!

CENTER FOR THE ARTS CONFERENCE CENTER

BROADWAY MEETINGS & RECEPTIONS

CONCERTS WEDDINGS

(904) 276-6815 • THcenter.org

LOCATED AT ST. JOHNS RIVER STATE COLLEGE, 283 COLLEGE DRIVE, ORANGE PARK, FL 64 • EXPLORECLAY.COM