Blackwater River State Park is a Florida Panhandle treasure near Milton, built around one of the purest sand-bottom rivers in the country. The Blackwater River winds through the park in tea-colored, tannin-stained water against brilliant white sandbars — a striking, beautiful contrast that makes this one of the finest spots in Florida for swimming, paddling, and lazy days by the water.

The river is the star. Shallow and clear (averaging only a couple of feet deep in many spots), with a clean white sandy bottom and broad sandbars, it's ideal for cooling off, splashing with the kids, and floating the afternoon away. White-sand beaches and sandbars line the banks, shaded by cypress trees leaning over the water, and rope swings tempt the adventurous. It's a quintessential, easygoing Southern river swim.

Paddling is just as popular. Canoes, kayaks, and tubes glide down the gentle current — a classic trip runs the 7 miles from Kennedy Bridge down to Deaton Bridge, ending right at the park — and local outfitters offer rentals and shuttles. Anglers and campers love it too, with shaded riverside campsites a short walk from the water.

Summer is prime for swimming and floating, when the river is warm and the sandbars inviting; spring and fall are lovely for paddling in milder weather. There's a small per-vehicle entrance fee. As with any river, keep an eye on the current and depth (it rises after heavy rain), watch children closely, and pack out everything you bring in. For a classic, scenic Florida river day, Blackwater River State Park is hard to beat.