What outdoor activities are available near Jacksonville?

The mighty St. John’s River meets the Atlantic just east of Jacksonville and flows south of the city, affording plenty of options for riverside camping, fishing, hiking, and paddling. Closer to the city, birders won’t want to miss the Huguenot Memorial Park, a prime spot on the Great Florida Birding Trail, while history buffs can explore Yellow Bluff Fort Historic State Park and the Kingsley Plantation. Miles of white-sand beaches lie within a short drive of Jacksonville, where you can swim, surf, and enjoy water sports. At the mouth of the St Johns River, Hanna Park has a surf beach, fishing lake, and miles of hiking and biking trails, plus camping and cabin rentals. Further north, you can horseback ride on the beach and camp right on the sand at Amelia Island State Park.