Activities

Hiking

The park is a great place for a hike! See the Trails page for more information.

Paddling

Rent a canoe or bring your own. The best way to explore Merchants Millpond is by gliding across the park's placid, shallow waters. A boat ramp and pier near the parking area offer access to the water. Marked paddle trails lead from the visitor center and boat ramp to canoe-in campsites. Venture out of the millpond and take slow-moving, dark-water Bennetts Creek through Lassiter Swamp. Here, park visitors are transported into a world of mistletoe, hanging Spanish moss and ancient cypress trees.

Canoes can be rented by the hour ($5) or overnight (for canoe-in campsites) at the visitor center. Canoes, paddles, and life vests are available on a first-come first-served basis. You must be at least 15 years of age to rent a canoe. A maximum of three people may occupy each vessel.

Fishing

Cast your line from the bank or journey into the millpond to fish in a pastoral setting. Small boats (with trolling motors only) may be launched at the boat ramp. Largemouth bass, bluegill, chain pickerel and black crappie are waiting to bite the hook! The Wildlife Resources Commission manages the millpond fisheries. All boating and fishing regulations of the WRC apply.

Picnicking

The shade of large trees offers a place to picnic within view of the millpond. Located north of the canoe access area, the A.B. Coleman Picnic Area has tables, one picnic shelter and restroom facilities. Picnic shelters are available on a first-come basis free of charge. The picnic shelter may be reserved for a fee.