Parks

Located in St. Augustine, Castillo de San Marcos is the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States. Constructed by the Spanish beginning in 1672, the fortress was built from coquina, a durable stone-like mixture of shells and limestone. After 23 years of construction, the Castillo stood as an enduring symbol of defense against pirates, the British, and other invaders. Notably, it was never taken in battle. In 1924, President Calvin Coolidge designated the site a national monument, recognizing its enduring historical importance.

Situated along the Intracoastal Waterway, Fort Matanzas was built in 1742 to guard the southern inlet to St. Augustine. Like Castillo de San Marcos, it was constructed from coquina and played a critical defensive role. Today, Fort Matanzas encompasses nearly 300 acres and includes nature trails, tidal beaches, and the original fort on Rattlesnake Island, accessed via ferry.

The Guana Tolomato Matanzas (GTM) Research Reserve is a federally designated National Estuarine Research Reserve spanning over 73,000 acres. It protects diverse ecosystems along scenic A1A and features more than 9 miles of hiking trails, boating and fishing access, and guided educational programs. Visitors can observe bald eagles, manatees, dolphins, and coastal flora while exploring the Environmental Education Center’s engaging natural and cultural exhibits.

Fort Mose holds a unique place in American history as the first legally sanctioned free African settlement in what is now the United States. Founded in 1738, it offered sanctuary to enslaved people fleeing the British colonies, in exchange for conversion to Catholicism and loyalty to Spain. The park features a museum, walking trails, cultural festivals, and as of May 2025, a newly reconstructed version of the original fort, bringing its powerful legacy to life through immersive interpretation.

Just minutes from downtown St. Augustine, Anastasia State Park is known for its white quartz sand beaches and coastal recreation. Ideal for swimming, kayaking, fishing, picnicking, and wildlife viewing, the park also offers camping, equipment rentals, and snack facilities. It was recognized in the 2025 USA Today's 10BEST Readers' Choice Awards as one of the Top 10 Florida Beaches.

Bordering Pellicer Creek, Faver-Dykes State Park is a tranquil escape popular among birdwatchers, kayakers, and campers. The park offers wooded trails, water access, and a peaceful, uncrowded setting perfect for nature lovers.

Set along the scenic St. Johns River, Alpine Groves Park offers nature trails through hardwood hammocks, a historic farmhouse, butterfly gardens, a dock for fishing and kayaking, and a charming playground under a canopy of live oaks. It’s especially beautiful during the sunrise and sunset hours. a broad network of public parks, waterfront spaces, active recreation areas, and community hubs that serve residents and visitors alike.

Located in St. Augustine, Treaty Park is a 47-acre community hub featuring basketball, pickleball, racquetball, and tennis courts, a skate park, a dog park, a shaded playground, and multiple sports fields. Picnic areas, pavilions, and a one-mile walking/jogging trail make it a popular space for all ages.

Nestled in a stately oak hammock canopy, Canopy Shores Park spans 33 acres and includes a one-mile paved loop for walking, biking, and birdwatching. Picnic pavilions, a shaded playground, grills, and restroom facilities make it a peaceful everyday escape for families and wellness seekers.

Set along Moultrie Creek and the Intracoastal Waterway, Vaill Point Park covers about 23 acres and is a top destination for birdwatching, fishing, kayaking, and waterfront walking. The park features nature trails, picnic shelters, playground equipment, restroom facilities, and a dock. In collaboration with the Audubon Society, it also hosts seasonal bird identification workshops.

Butler Park East, located along A1A South, offers public beach access, restrooms, picnic shelters, rinsing showers, and surfing/fishing opportunities. Leashed dogs are welcome, and it's a historic beach access point established by Frank Butler for African American visitors during segregation. Nearby, Butler Beach remains a scenic coastal neighborhood and symbol of local heritage.

Located behind the Ponte Vedra Beach Library, Bird Island Park is a nature-themed passive park featuring a storytelling amphitheater, interactive art sculptures, meandering walkways, and a pond shaped like a bird when viewed from above. It’s ideal for quiet exploration, birdwatching, and family-friendly experiences in a tranquil setting.