Fort Caroline National Memorial in Jacksonville

Jacksonville is home to lots of great Historic Forts, and tucked away in the heart of Fort Caroline is a National Memorial and Fort that are worth exploring with the kids. The Fort Caroline location hosts the visitor center for a larger, Timucuan Preserve.

Fort Caroline is Free to Visit

Fort Caroline National Memorial is located at 12713 Fort Caroline Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32225. It is completely free to visit and is open daily from 9 am-5 pm.

Fort Caroline National Memorial has plenty of shaded picnic tables so be sure to pack a snack or lunch. Dog are allowed, but must be kept on a 6 foot leash.

When you first arrive at Fort Caroline National Memorial, be sure to stop by the visitor center. There is a small, but very informative museum that kids will love. While you’re there kids can pick up a Junior Ranger booklet at no charge. When they complete the booklet they’ll earn a Junior Ranger Badge.

As you head out to explore the Fort and surrounding grounds, you’ll notice that the park sits on the St. Johns River. There’s a dock you can walk out onto and if you’re lucky, you might see some dolphins jumping or jellyfish floating past.

Fort Caroline has a little something for everyone. You can explore the Fort, hike a trail, learn a little something at the museum or enjoy a picnic lunch. Plan to spend a few hours looking around.

Don’t forget to turn in those Junior Ranger Booklets before you go! Kids can earn a free badge and a great memento from your time at the park. Junior Ranger Booklets are designed for kids ages 4-12 and they offer two different booklets for ages under 7 and 8 & up!