A Visit to Carl Duval Moore State Forest and Park

Putnam County is a playground for hikers looking for exciting trails. There are so many great outdoor adventures throughout the area, including multiple state parks and forests. One of the best is Carl Duval Moore State Forest and Park – and although it may be one of the smallest state forests in Florida, it provides a great nature-based adventure for hikers of all levels. Anglers love this little secret fishing spot, too.

History of the Carl Duval Moore State Forest and Park

The Carl Duval Moore estate originally deeded the land to the State of Florida in 1993 with the intent that the area bordering Hardesty Lake would be used as a public forest. The area around Up and Down Lake was intended to be a state park. In 1994, it was decided that the entire gift from Carl Duval Moore would be used as the forest that bears his name, and additional land was also acquired from Plum Creek in 2010 and from Putnam Land Conservancy in 2017. Currently, the state forest is a total of 336.17 acres.

The Two Hiking Trails at Carl Duval Moore State Forest and Park

Carl Duval Moore State Forest and Park is divided into two tracts and has a nice hiking trail in each area. Even if you’ve never hiked there, you’ll find it easy to follow the well-blazed trails. It’s almost impossible to get lost.

North Tract

This 1.2-mile loop takes you to Up and Down Lake.

Address: 400-450 West Street Interlachen, Florida (This will show up as Carl Duval Moore State Forest in Google Maps and Waze.)

South Tract

This is an out-and-back hike that is 1.5-miles roundtrip, and takes you to Hardesty Lake.

Address: 135 Clouds Avenue Interlachen, Florida (This will show up as Carl Duval Moore State Forest and Park in Google Maps and Waze.

What to Expect on the Trails

Neither are long or strenuous, which makes this a great choice even for new hikers and families. You can also easily explore both in one day –  each trail is less than two miles long. Even more advanced hikers will like these trails too, as the flora and fauna along the way make these really enjoyable treks.

As you meander along the trail, you’ll see educational signage that identifies some of the local foliage. Keep an eye out for wildlife as well. It’s not uncommon to see deer, gopher tortoises, turkeys, squirrels, and more. Birders also enjoy using the Merlin Bird ID app when they’re there. It’s a quiet forest, and the app identifies the birds that you’ll hear along your journey. There are a variety of birds that you could see in the forest, including bald eagles.

Both trails also lead you to a scenic lake. In 2025, the boardwalks and overlooks were updated on each trail, and these new platforms provide the perfect spot to enjoy time by the water. Many people bring along their fishing gear to drop a line there, as it’s a great spot to fish for a variety of species such as bass, bream, and catfish. Others just prefer sitting on the overlook and taking in the picturesque views.

Where to Stay

If you come to the area to hike, you may want to stay a few days so you can check out Putnam County’s other state forests as well – Etoniah Creek State Forest and Welaka State Forest. While you can’t camp at Carl Duval Moore State Forest and Park, Etoniah Creek and Welaka do allow camping, but you’ll need to reserve a camping spot online ahead of time. If you’re not into camping, you’ll find several other places to stay in Putnam County including hotels, fish camps, cabins, vacation rentals, and more.

Tips for Visiting Carl Duval Moore State Forest and Park

• The cost to visit is $2 per person for all people over 6 years old. If you are visiting multiple state forests in one day though, you only need to purchase one pass. There's no staff at the trailheads, so payment is on an honor system. You can reserve your day pass online before you go.
• If you’re planning to visit multiple state forests throughout the year, you may find it more cost efficient to purchase an annual Florida State Forest pass for $45. That allows daily entry for up to six guests, and you can visit all of the state forests in Florida all year long.
• Both trails are very well-marked, but it’s still a good idea to print the maps for the North and South tracts before you go – or at least save a copy of them on your phone. If you forget, there are QR codes you can scan at the kiosks in the parking areas, and you can download the maps from there.
• Your hike at Carl Duval Moore State Forest and Park counts toward the Florida State Forest Trailwalker program. If you hike 10 trails in at least five state forests, you can achieve this esteemed honor and be awarded prizes to celebrate your accomplishment.
• One thing that makes these trails great is their diversity. You’ll traverse through some areas with canopy, but there are some open spaces as well. Make sure to take sunscreen and plenty of water.
• The overlooks on the lakes make the perfect spot to have lunch. Pack a picnic and enjoy your time by the water. Just make sure you pack all of your trash with you when you leave.
• Download the Visit Putnam FL app for Apple or Android to make the most of your trip to the area.