Jacksonville's Wondrous Parks
Jacksonville is home to many beautiful parks. Timucuan Trail Parks Foundation shares this comprehensive list, with descriptions, of Jacksonville's Timucuan Trail parks.
Images and descriptions courtesy of Timucuan Trail Parks Foundation
Alimacani Park
Alimacani Park is located on Xalvis Island, adjacent to the Fort George River. Some of the first Europeans to arrive in northeast Florida landed on Xalvis Island in 1562. The park and nearby Fort George Island (formerly part of the Timucuan Indian settlement of Alimacani) comprise a portion of the 46,000-acre Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve. The scenic stretch of A1A known as the Buccaneer Trail, named for pirates such as Blackbeard that pillaged the coast, borders the park on the east, and the City’s Alimacani Boat Ramp abuts the park on the west.
The boat ramp provides access to the Fort George River and its tributaries. Alimacani provides awesome opportunities for jet skiers, kayakers, canoers and small jon boaters. The marsh area offers ample bird observation.
11080 Heckscher Drive
www.jaxparks.com
Betz Tiger Point Preserve
Betz Tiger Point Preserve is surrounded by awe inspiring broad expanses of saltwater marsh. Stunning scenic views as well as abundant wildlife can be seen in this natural setting. With its adjoining neighbor, Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park, visitors can enjoy miles of nature trails for hiking, biking and equestrian use, kayak/canoe areas, and ample fishing. Use the canoe launch a few hundred feet south of the Preserve to launch your canoe and explore the salt marshes.
Click Here For More Information & Trail Maps
North of 13990 Pumpkin Hill Road
www.jaxparks.com
Big Talbot Island State Park
Big Talbot Island State Park’s famous boneyard beach is covered with the skeletons of live oak and cedar trees that once grew near the ocean. This park is a photographer’s dream. A paved bike path runs along side the park. Visitors can picnic at the Bluff’s access overlooking the water and take a hike down the Shoreline Trail. A boat ramp is available for boats and kayaks.
State Road A1A just north of Little Talbot Island
(904) 251-2320
www.floridastateparks.org/bigtalbotisland
Camp Milton Historic Preserve
Designated a Civil War campground, Camp Milton offers a state of the art educational center displaying Civil War artifacts, McGirts Creek Bridge a replica of a “Campaign Bridge”, wooden boardwalk leading to Civil War earthworks, and an authentic 1800s Florida farmstead that provide visitors with a glimpse into history. Historic era reenactments occur in February. Camp Milton is located about halfway along the Rail Trail.
Click Here For More Information & Trail Maps
1175 Halsema Road North
Hours: Monday - Sunday - 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
www.jaxparks.com
Castaway Island Preserve
Castaway Island Preserve is located along the Intracoastal Waterway and is adjacent to an intricate salt marsh ecosystem that is ideal for spotting marshland wildlife. Visitors may stroll along the Preserve’s wooden boardwalk, take in a view from an observation platform overlooking the waterway, walk along the kid friendly interpretive nature trail, use the kayak launch to explore the marsh, and explore the theaterstyle education center during scheduled programs.
2885 San Pablo Road, north of Beach Blvd.
www.jaxparks.com
Cedar Point
This park managed by the National Park Service contains trails to the west of Cedar Point Road and a small craft boat ramp and canoe launch to the east of Cedar Point Road. The boat ramp allows access to the many salt marshes in the Timucuan Preserve. The views along the marsh will amaze you.
9023 Cedar Point Road
www.nps.gov/timu
Cedar Point Preserve
This preserve has beautiful trails through mature hardwoods. It’s a great place to hike, bike or horseback ride. The trail takes you to a spectacular view of the marsh. The trails are well marked for pedestrians and equestrians alike.
Click Here For More Information & Trail Maps
East of 7116 Cedar Point Road
www.jaxparks.com
Dutton Island Preserve
Dutton Island Preserve is a pristine salt marsh ecosystem that offers visitors exceptional wildlife viewing. Tranquility awaits visitors along the trail to the marsh observation viewing deck. Continue west along Dutton Island Road to Dutton Island Park where you can launch your kayak or canoe within the salt marshes of the Intracoastal Waterway. There is a marked kayak trail among the salt marsh to guide you. This is also a great spot for fishing. After spending a day at Dutton Island Preserve and Dutton Island Park, take the St. Johns River Ferry across the river to Ft. George Island State Park, Huguenot Park and the Talbot Island parks.
Click Here For More Information & Trail Map
East of 793 Dutton Island Road West until you see the park on the right
www.jaxparks.com
Fort Caroline National Memorial
Home of the Timucuan Preserve Visitor Center, this park memorializes the site of a 16th-century French colony – the first European settlement in the area. Check out the Visitor Center with exhibits about the area’s natural history, European exploration, and the Timucua Native Americans. Take a hike on the many trails through mature hardwood forests. Trails lead to a Timucuan hut and shell mound exhibit and a memorial fort exhibit and former French colony along the St. Johns River. You can even tie your boat to the onsite dock. After a few hours here you can travel across the street to the Theodore Roosevelt Area.
12713 Ft. Caroline Road (904) 641-7155
www.nps.gov/timu
Fort George Island Cultural State Park/ Ribault Club
Check out the exhibits at the restored 1928 Ribault Club where events and weddings are still being held today. Bring your kayaks or small boats and explore the safe waters and sand bars of the Ft. George River marsh areas. Then have a picnic under the open grassed area under large oak trees. Many trails begin at this area and meander through Ft. George Island with some trails ending with views of the Ft. George River. Hiking too strenuous? - Segway tours of the island are available
11241 Fort George Road (904) 251-2802
www.floridastateparks.org/fortgeorgeisland
George Crady Bridge Fishing Pier
George Crady Bridge Fishing Pier is a favorite for local fishermen. This one-mile, pedestrian-only fishing bridge spans Nassau Sound and provides access to one of the best fishing areas in Northeast Florida. Anglers catch a variety of fish, including whiting, jack, drum and tarpon. Access to the bridge is through Amelia Island State Park. Amelia Island State Park is one of the few locations on the east coast that offers horseback riding on the beach and riding tours along the shoreline
State Road A1A, north of Big Talbot Island (904)251-2320
www.floridastateparks.org/georgecradybridge/
Huguenot Memorial Park
This park is practically surrounded by water. This beautiful beach area offers camping, surfing, fishing, kayaking, and nature trails. Huguenot Park is considered by the Duval Audubon Society to be the premier birding site in Duval County. You can drive and park directly on the beach. Lifeguards and concessions are available at this park.
10980 Heckscher Drive (904) 251-3335
www.jaxparks.com
Jacksonville-Baldwin Trail
Visitors to the 14.5 mile Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail can explore what was once a part of the CSX railway line. Two separate and distinct paths include either a paved path for walking, jogging, in-line skating and/or biking and a parallel unpaved path for horseback riding. Additional unpaved trails spur off the main trail into adjacent public conservation land to enhance the experience. You can start at one end of the trail at the Imeson Road parking area and go about 7 miles to the Camp Milton Trailhead. Keep going to the end of the trail to the small town of Baldwin and stop for lunch at one of the area diners for some good ol’ home cooking.
Click Here For More Information & Trail Maps
1800 Imeson Road
www.jaxparks.com
Julington Durbin Creek Preserve
Uniquely located on a peninsula formed at the confluence of Julington and Durbin Creeks, the Julington Durbin preserve provides visitors with many trails through natural communities ranging from sandhill to lower flatwood to lush floodplain swamp and marshes. Julington Durbin Preserve’s nine miles of shoreline offers visitors beautiful scenic views of both Julington and Durbin Creeks. Trails good for hiking, biking, or horseback riding with some trails totaling 6.1 miles round trip are located in the Preserve. You can explore the creeks surrounding the Preserve from the boat ramp at Hood Landing (12803 Hood Landing Road) or the kayak launch at the Palmetto Leaves Regional Park South Entrance off Old St. Augustine Road, across from the Bartram Trail Shopping Center. Or visit the kayak launch off Racetrack Road. This is a great place to kayak in a completely natural setting.
Click Here For More Information & Trail Maps
13130 Bartram Park Boulevard
www.jaxparks.com
Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park
Right on the ocean, this 450-acre park has everything a family may be looking for. Plan a day to relax on the pristine beach or fish and canoe on the freshwater pond. A small splash park is available in the summer months. This park has many off-road bike paths through mature hardwood forests. Cabin and tent camping are available. Lifeguards and concessions are available at this park. After spending a day at this park, take the St. Johns River Ferry across the river to Ft. George Island State Park, Huguenot Park and the Talbot Island parks.
Click Here For More Information & Trail Maps
500 Wonderwood Drive (904) 249-4700
www.jaxparks.com
Kingsley Plantation
Located on historic Ft. George Island within the Timucuan Preserve, this site includes the oldest standing plantation house in Florida and the remains of original tabby slave cabins. The site also contains the original barn and kitchen house. A garden is planted with sample crops that would have been grown during the plantation era. The plantation is located along the beautiful Ft. George River where many Florida water birds can be observed. The park offers a dock. A ranger program is offered weekends at 2 pm.
11676 Palmetto Avenue (904)251-3537
www.nps.gov/timu
Little Talbot Island State Park
Little Talbot Island State Park is one of the few remaining undeveloped barrier islands in Northeast Florida. This park offers more than five miles of magnificent beaches, majestic dunes and undisturbed salt marshes. This park is a true treasure of Northeast Florida. A more than two mile long paved bike path runs along Park Drive from the entrance to the southern tip of the island. Camping facilities and a boat ramp are available. Kayak outfitters are available near the park.
12157 Heckscher Drive (904) 251-2320,
www.floridastateparks.org/littletalbotisland
Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park
Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park protects one of the largest contiguous areas of coastal uplands remaining in Duval County. Equestrians, hikers and off-road bicyclists can explore over 16 miles of trails. A canoe/kayak launch is available to reach the marshes.
13802 Pumpkin Hill Road (904) 696-5980
www.floridastateparks.org/pumpkinhill
Reddie Point Preserve
Reddie Point Preserve is located at the bend of the St. Johns River and provides spectacular views of the St. Johns River and downtown Jacksonville. This park offers a large fishing pier and docking station for boats.
Click Here For More Information & Trail Maps
4499 Yachtsman Way
www.jaxparks.com
Seaton Creek Historic Preserve
The City of Jacksonville's Preservation Park system has added another crown jewel -- Seaton Creek Historic Preserve, a beautiful 800+ acre preserve located near Thomas Creek (northern Duval County). While the Preserve will be a "working" forest and actively managed for timber, trail blazing has begun to open the Preserve to hikers, off-road bikers and equestrian enthusiasts. Wildlife viewing is spectacular with the pristine marshes and meandering creeks throughout the Preserve- a mecca for nature photographers and artists!
Click Here For More Information & Trail Maps
2145 Arnold Road
Sal Taylor Preserve
This park contains trails heavily used by equestrians. The trails also connect to trails on adjacent public conservation land which can extend your visit. Wildlife and exceptional wildflower observation opportunities await visitors.
Click Here For More Information & Trail Maps
5813 Nathan Hale Road
www.jaxparks.com
Theodore Roosevelt Area
Close to Ft. Caroline National Memorial, this 600-acre natural area within the Timucuan Preserve has over 5 miles of hiking trails winding through one of North Florida’s most pristine areas. Obtain trail guides at the Fort Caroline National Memorial Visitor Center.
Click here for trail map (1)
Click here for trail map (2)
13165 Mt.Pleasant Road (904) 641-7155
www.nps.gov/timu
Thomas Creek Preserve
Thomas Creek Preserve is a Black Creek system that flows into the Nassau River Tributary. Influenced by the tide, the creek’s relaxing atmosphere and captivating natural scenery is a setting to let everything go and unwind in natural beauty. A boat ramp, kayak launch, and fishing pier are located onsite. No boats over 17 feet.
Click Here For More Information & Trail Maps
17198 Ethel Road
www.jaxparks.com
Images and descriptions courtesy of Timucuan Trail Parks Foundation
Alimacani Park
Alimacani Park is located on Xalvis Island, adjacent to the Fort George River. Some of the first Europeans to arrive in northeast Florida landed on Xalvis Island in 1562. The park and nearby Fort George Island (formerly part of the Timucuan Indian settlement of Alimacani) comprise a portion of the 46,000-acre Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve. The scenic stretch of A1A known as the Buccaneer Trail, named for pirates such as Blackbeard that pillaged the coast, borders the park on the east, and the City’s Alimacani Boat Ramp abuts the park on the west.
The boat ramp provides access to the Fort George River and its tributaries. Alimacani provides awesome opportunities for jet skiers, kayakers, canoers and small jon boaters. The marsh area offers ample bird observation.
11080 Heckscher Drive
www.jaxparks.com
Betz Tiger Point Preserve
Betz Tiger Point Preserve is surrounded by awe inspiring broad expanses of saltwater marsh. Stunning scenic views as well as abundant wildlife can be seen in this natural setting. With its adjoining neighbor, Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park, visitors can enjoy miles of nature trails for hiking, biking and equestrian use, kayak/canoe areas, and ample fishing. Use the canoe launch a few hundred feet south of the Preserve to launch your canoe and explore the salt marshes.
Click Here For More Information & Trail Maps
North of 13990 Pumpkin Hill Road
www.jaxparks.com
Big Talbot Island State Park
Big Talbot Island State Park’s famous boneyard beach is covered with the skeletons of live oak and cedar trees that once grew near the ocean. This park is a photographer’s dream. A paved bike path runs along side the park. Visitors can picnic at the Bluff’s access overlooking the water and take a hike down the Shoreline Trail. A boat ramp is available for boats and kayaks.
State Road A1A just north of Little Talbot Island
(904) 251-2320
www.floridastateparks.org/bigtalbotisland
Camp Milton Historic Preserve
Designated a Civil War campground, Camp Milton offers a state of the art educational center displaying Civil War artifacts, McGirts Creek Bridge a replica of a “Campaign Bridge”, wooden boardwalk leading to Civil War earthworks, and an authentic 1800s Florida farmstead that provide visitors with a glimpse into history. Historic era reenactments occur in February. Camp Milton is located about halfway along the Rail Trail.
Click Here For More Information & Trail Maps
1175 Halsema Road North
Hours: Monday - Sunday - 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
www.jaxparks.com
Castaway Island Preserve
Castaway Island Preserve is located along the Intracoastal Waterway and is adjacent to an intricate salt marsh ecosystem that is ideal for spotting marshland wildlife. Visitors may stroll along the Preserve’s wooden boardwalk, take in a view from an observation platform overlooking the waterway, walk along the kid friendly interpretive nature trail, use the kayak launch to explore the marsh, and explore the theaterstyle education center during scheduled programs.
2885 San Pablo Road, north of Beach Blvd.
www.jaxparks.com
Cedar Point
This park managed by the National Park Service contains trails to the west of Cedar Point Road and a small craft boat ramp and canoe launch to the east of Cedar Point Road. The boat ramp allows access to the many salt marshes in the Timucuan Preserve. The views along the marsh will amaze you.
9023 Cedar Point Road
www.nps.gov/timu
Cedar Point Preserve
This preserve has beautiful trails through mature hardwoods. It’s a great place to hike, bike or horseback ride. The trail takes you to a spectacular view of the marsh. The trails are well marked for pedestrians and equestrians alike.
Click Here For More Information & Trail Maps
East of 7116 Cedar Point Road
www.jaxparks.com
Dutton Island Preserve
Dutton Island Preserve is a pristine salt marsh ecosystem that offers visitors exceptional wildlife viewing. Tranquility awaits visitors along the trail to the marsh observation viewing deck. Continue west along Dutton Island Road to Dutton Island Park where you can launch your kayak or canoe within the salt marshes of the Intracoastal Waterway. There is a marked kayak trail among the salt marsh to guide you. This is also a great spot for fishing. After spending a day at Dutton Island Preserve and Dutton Island Park, take the St. Johns River Ferry across the river to Ft. George Island State Park, Huguenot Park and the Talbot Island parks.
Click Here For More Information & Trail Map
East of 793 Dutton Island Road West until you see the park on the right
www.jaxparks.com
Fort Caroline National Memorial
Home of the Timucuan Preserve Visitor Center, this park memorializes the site of a 16th-century French colony – the first European settlement in the area. Check out the Visitor Center with exhibits about the area’s natural history, European exploration, and the Timucua Native Americans. Take a hike on the many trails through mature hardwood forests. Trails lead to a Timucuan hut and shell mound exhibit and a memorial fort exhibit and former French colony along the St. Johns River. You can even tie your boat to the onsite dock. After a few hours here you can travel across the street to the Theodore Roosevelt Area.
12713 Ft. Caroline Road (904) 641-7155
www.nps.gov/timu
Fort George Island Cultural State Park/ Ribault Club
Check out the exhibits at the restored 1928 Ribault Club where events and weddings are still being held today. Bring your kayaks or small boats and explore the safe waters and sand bars of the Ft. George River marsh areas. Then have a picnic under the open grassed area under large oak trees. Many trails begin at this area and meander through Ft. George Island with some trails ending with views of the Ft. George River. Hiking too strenuous? - Segway tours of the island are available
11241 Fort George Road (904) 251-2802
www.floridastateparks.org/fortgeorgeisland
George Crady Bridge Fishing Pier
George Crady Bridge Fishing Pier is a favorite for local fishermen. This one-mile, pedestrian-only fishing bridge spans Nassau Sound and provides access to one of the best fishing areas in Northeast Florida. Anglers catch a variety of fish, including whiting, jack, drum and tarpon. Access to the bridge is through Amelia Island State Park. Amelia Island State Park is one of the few locations on the east coast that offers horseback riding on the beach and riding tours along the shoreline
State Road A1A, north of Big Talbot Island (904)251-2320
www.floridastateparks.org/georgecradybridge/
Huguenot Memorial Park
This park is practically surrounded by water. This beautiful beach area offers camping, surfing, fishing, kayaking, and nature trails. Huguenot Park is considered by the Duval Audubon Society to be the premier birding site in Duval County. You can drive and park directly on the beach. Lifeguards and concessions are available at this park.
10980 Heckscher Drive (904) 251-3335
www.jaxparks.com
Jacksonville-Baldwin Trail
Visitors to the 14.5 mile Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail can explore what was once a part of the CSX railway line. Two separate and distinct paths include either a paved path for walking, jogging, in-line skating and/or biking and a parallel unpaved path for horseback riding. Additional unpaved trails spur off the main trail into adjacent public conservation land to enhance the experience. You can start at one end of the trail at the Imeson Road parking area and go about 7 miles to the Camp Milton Trailhead. Keep going to the end of the trail to the small town of Baldwin and stop for lunch at one of the area diners for some good ol’ home cooking.
Click Here For More Information & Trail Maps
1800 Imeson Road
www.jaxparks.com
Julington Durbin Creek Preserve
Uniquely located on a peninsula formed at the confluence of Julington and Durbin Creeks, the Julington Durbin preserve provides visitors with many trails through natural communities ranging from sandhill to lower flatwood to lush floodplain swamp and marshes. Julington Durbin Preserve’s nine miles of shoreline offers visitors beautiful scenic views of both Julington and Durbin Creeks. Trails good for hiking, biking, or horseback riding with some trails totaling 6.1 miles round trip are located in the Preserve. You can explore the creeks surrounding the Preserve from the boat ramp at Hood Landing (12803 Hood Landing Road) or the kayak launch at the Palmetto Leaves Regional Park South Entrance off Old St. Augustine Road, across from the Bartram Trail Shopping Center. Or visit the kayak launch off Racetrack Road. This is a great place to kayak in a completely natural setting.
Click Here For More Information & Trail Maps
13130 Bartram Park Boulevard
www.jaxparks.com
Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park
Right on the ocean, this 450-acre park has everything a family may be looking for. Plan a day to relax on the pristine beach or fish and canoe on the freshwater pond. A small splash park is available in the summer months. This park has many off-road bike paths through mature hardwood forests. Cabin and tent camping are available. Lifeguards and concessions are available at this park. After spending a day at this park, take the St. Johns River Ferry across the river to Ft. George Island State Park, Huguenot Park and the Talbot Island parks.
Click Here For More Information & Trail Maps
500 Wonderwood Drive (904) 249-4700
www.jaxparks.com
Kingsley Plantation
Located on historic Ft. George Island within the Timucuan Preserve, this site includes the oldest standing plantation house in Florida and the remains of original tabby slave cabins. The site also contains the original barn and kitchen house. A garden is planted with sample crops that would have been grown during the plantation era. The plantation is located along the beautiful Ft. George River where many Florida water birds can be observed. The park offers a dock. A ranger program is offered weekends at 2 pm.
11676 Palmetto Avenue (904)251-3537
www.nps.gov/timu
Little Talbot Island State Park
Little Talbot Island State Park is one of the few remaining undeveloped barrier islands in Northeast Florida. This park offers more than five miles of magnificent beaches, majestic dunes and undisturbed salt marshes. This park is a true treasure of Northeast Florida. A more than two mile long paved bike path runs along Park Drive from the entrance to the southern tip of the island. Camping facilities and a boat ramp are available. Kayak outfitters are available near the park.
12157 Heckscher Drive (904) 251-2320,
www.floridastateparks.org/littletalbotisland
Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park
Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park protects one of the largest contiguous areas of coastal uplands remaining in Duval County. Equestrians, hikers and off-road bicyclists can explore over 16 miles of trails. A canoe/kayak launch is available to reach the marshes.
13802 Pumpkin Hill Road (904) 696-5980
www.floridastateparks.org/pumpkinhill
Reddie Point Preserve
Reddie Point Preserve is located at the bend of the St. Johns River and provides spectacular views of the St. Johns River and downtown Jacksonville. This park offers a large fishing pier and docking station for boats.
Click Here For More Information & Trail Maps
4499 Yachtsman Way
www.jaxparks.com
Seaton Creek Historic Preserve
The City of Jacksonville's Preservation Park system has added another crown jewel -- Seaton Creek Historic Preserve, a beautiful 800+ acre preserve located near Thomas Creek (northern Duval County). While the Preserve will be a "working" forest and actively managed for timber, trail blazing has begun to open the Preserve to hikers, off-road bikers and equestrian enthusiasts. Wildlife viewing is spectacular with the pristine marshes and meandering creeks throughout the Preserve- a mecca for nature photographers and artists!
Click Here For More Information & Trail Maps
2145 Arnold Road
Sal Taylor Preserve
This park contains trails heavily used by equestrians. The trails also connect to trails on adjacent public conservation land which can extend your visit. Wildlife and exceptional wildflower observation opportunities await visitors.
Click Here For More Information & Trail Maps
5813 Nathan Hale Road
www.jaxparks.com
Theodore Roosevelt Area
Close to Ft. Caroline National Memorial, this 600-acre natural area within the Timucuan Preserve has over 5 miles of hiking trails winding through one of North Florida’s most pristine areas. Obtain trail guides at the Fort Caroline National Memorial Visitor Center.
Click here for trail map (1)
Click here for trail map (2)
13165 Mt.Pleasant Road (904) 641-7155
www.nps.gov/timu
Thomas Creek Preserve
Thomas Creek Preserve is a Black Creek system that flows into the Nassau River Tributary. Influenced by the tide, the creek’s relaxing atmosphere and captivating natural scenery is a setting to let everything go and unwind in natural beauty. A boat ramp, kayak launch, and fishing pier are located onsite. No boats over 17 feet.
Click Here For More Information & Trail Maps
17198 Ethel Road
www.jaxparks.com
Images and descriptions courtesy of Timucuan Trail Parks Foundation