Clear Creek

Florida is known for its beautiful landscapes and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. But as the state continues to see rapid development, it’s now more crucial than ever to protect the spaces that connect everyone to the benefits of the outdoors.

Trust for Public Land partnered with Santa Rosa County and the Department of the Navy to safeguard 429 acres of gorgeous longleaf pine forest and native wetlands at Clear Creek. Its protection will not only bolster climate resiliency in the area, buffer NAS Whiting Field, and preserve precious wildlife habitat—like that of the gopher tortoise—but also provide more space for Floridians to engage with nature through activities like hiking or birding.

Our work at Clear Creek builds upon our continued efforts to protect longleaf pine forests throughout Florida’s panhandle. We’ve worked for decades to help safeguard nearby Wolfe Creek and expand Blackwater State Forest, even crossing a major 10,000-acre milestone of longleaf pine forests protected—now and for generations to come.