Living in Jacksonville, you’re fortunate to have some of the most beautiful state parks in Florida right on your doorstep. Whether you’re looking for a day of adventure, relaxation, or exploration, these parks offer something for everyone. There’s tons for everyone in the family to enjoy, including the free Junior Ranger Program. Here’s a list of our favorite Florida State Parks that are perfect for a family day trip.
Fort Clinch State Park
Highlights:
- Historic Fort: Step back in time with a visit to the well-preserved 19th-century Fort Clinch. Kids will love exploring the fort and learning about its history through reenactments.
- Fishing Pier: For families who love to fish, the pier offers a great spot to catch a variety of fish species, or simply enjoy the stunning views.
- Nature Trails: The park features several miles of hiking trails through coastal habitats, perfect for birdwatching and spotting local wildlife.
Why It’s Great for Families: Fort Clinch combines history and outdoor activities, making it an engaging and educational experience for kids and adults alike. The diverse landscape offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just spending a day outdoors.
Little Talbot Island State Park
Highlights:
- Pristine Beaches: With over five miles of untouched beaches, Little Talbot Island is ideal for a family day of sun, sand, and surf.
- Biking Trails: The paved bike paths wind through scenic dunes and salt marshes, making it a great spot for a family bike ride.
- Picnic Areas: Enjoy a family picnic under the shade of ancient live oaks, with picnic tables and grills available.
Why It’s Great for Families: Little Talbot Island offers a perfect blend of beach and nature, allowing families to explore Florida’s coastal ecosystem in a relaxed setting. Kids can enjoy building sandcastles or searching for shells, while adults can unwind and soak in the serene surroundings.
Big Talbot Island State Park
Highlights:
- Boneyard Beach: This unique beach, scattered with the remains of sun-bleached oak trees, is a photographer’s paradise and a fascinating place for kids to explore.
- Kayaking: The park’s estuarine waters are ideal for kayaking, offering a chance to paddle through scenic salt marshes and tidal creeks.
- Hiking: Trails like the Blackrock Trail lead to stunning overlooks and provide a great way to explore the park’s diverse habitats.
Why It’s Great for Families: Big Talbot Island’s unusual landscapes make it an exciting destination for families. The combination of striking scenery and outdoor activities ensures a day filled with exploration and adventure. Big Talbot is easily a favorite beach to visit in the winter.
Anastasia State Park
Highlights:
- Wide Beaches: The park boasts over four miles of sandy beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
- Water Sports: Families can rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards to explore the park’s calm waters, offering fun for both beginners and seasoned paddlers.
- Nature Trails: Explore the diverse ecosystems on the Ancient Dunes Trail, where you can see a variety of plants and wildlife native to the area.
Why It’s Great for Families: Anastasia State Park is a beach lover’s paradise, offering plenty of space for families to spread out and enjoy the ocean. The variety of water sports available ensures that everyone in the family can find something fun to do.
Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park
Highlights:
- Swimming in Lake Johnson: The spring-fed lake is perfect for swimming and cooling off during the summer months.
- Sandhill Trails: Explore the park’s extensive network of trails through sandhill habitats, where you can spot gopher tortoises and other native species.
- Playground: The park has a well-maintained playground, making it a great spot for families with younger children.
Why It’s Great for Families: Gold Head Branch State Park offers a classic day of outdoor fun, with swimming, hiking, and playgrounds to keep the whole family entertained. The park’s natural beauty and family-friendly amenities make it a top pick for a day trip. They also have cabins and tent sites making it a great option for camping near Jacksonville.
Stephen Foster Folk Cultural Center State Park
Highlights:
- Carillon Tower: The iconic tower plays traditional folk music throughout the day, adding a charming soundtrack to your visit.
- Craft Demonstrations: The park regularly hosts craft demonstrations where families can learn about traditional Florida folk arts.
- River Access: The Suwannee River flows through the park, offering opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.
Why It’s Great for Families: This park is a cultural gem, offering a unique blend of history, music, and outdoor activities. The demonstrations and events are engaging for kids, while the scenic river adds a natural element to the visit. Plan a visit around Christmas time for their Festival of Lights.
Ravine Gardens State Park
Highlights:
- Ravine Loop Trail: This unique trail takes you through the park’s steep ravines, offering stunning views and a bit of a workout.
- Gardens: The park is home to formal gardens, including azaleas, which bloom in spectacular fashion in the spring.
- Playgrounds and Picnic Areas: With a large picnic area and playgrounds, it’s a great spot for a family day out.
Why It’s Great for Families: Ravine Gardens combines natural beauty with well-maintained amenities, offering a perfect mix for a family day out. The trails and gardens are particularly stunning in February when all the azaleas begin to bloom, but the park is beautiful year-round.
Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park
Highlights:
- Kayaking: The park’s creeks and estuaries are perfect for kayaking, offering a peaceful escape into nature.
- Hiking and Biking: Trails wind through the park’s pine flatwoods and tidal marshes, providing scenic routes for hiking and biking.
- Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and even the occasional manatee in the waters.
Why It’s Great for Families: Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve is a quiet and less crowded park, making it ideal for families who want to enjoy nature in a more tranquil setting. The diverse habitats offer plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing and exploration.
Get Out and Start Exploring Florida State Parks
Northeast Florida is rich in natural beauty and offers an abundance of state parks perfect for a family day trip from Jacksonville. Whether you’re looking to explore pristine beaches, paddle through estuaries, or step back in time at historic sites, these parks have something for everyone. Pack a picnic, load up the car, and head out to one of these fantastic parks for a day of fun, adventure, and family bonding.
Shannon is a former Special Education teacher, turned stay at home mom that doesn’t spend a lot of time staying at home. Mom to Cole & Kiley, she loves cheering on the Gators, early morning visits to the beach and traveling with her family. She blogs about her family travel adventures at The Beckham Project and hosts the podcast, Jacksonville Momcast, where she chats with Jacksonville moms about motherhood and more in the 904.
