Q: I plan to go camping with my 12-year-old son. We usually go to Alexander Springs, where there are many things to do like swimming, fishing, trailblazing and a feeling of a good, safe family atmosphere, but we would like to try something different. Is there a place you'd recommend near that stretch between Jacksonville and Daytona or west?

A: I'm glad you're showing your son the outdoors. There's something about camping and kids -- they just seem to go together, and you're great for spending this time with him. (Hope I didn't make ya blush.)

West of St. Augustine is a great park called Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park. It's kind of in the middle of nowhere -- like Alexander Springs. Actually, it's near Keystone Heights, which is a nice little town, but it's small. If you break your fishing pole, you may have to drive into Starke for a new one. (Does it sound as though I'm experienced?)

Gold Head has a lake and a good hiking trail that runs along a ravine. Boating and fishing are popular, and a boat ramp makes these activities accessible. This is also one of the few state parks where you can rent cabins, which are pretty well furnished. All around, it's just a great park. It should give you the safe, family-oriented atmosphere you like as well as plenty of things to do together.

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