Things to do / Travel Guide
Address:12713 Fort Caroline Rd.
Jacksonville, Florida
Tel:
(904) 641-7155
Visit one of the last unspoiled coastal wetlands on the Atlantic Coast, home to 6,000 years of human history! See Timucua villages and French forts side by side! Named for the American Indians who lived here for more than 3,000 years, the preserve encompasses coastal marshes, islands, mudflats, tidal creeks, and more!
The Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve covers 46,000 acres and serves to protect critical wetland habitats within the preserve. Visitors can relax on miles of peaceful, wooded nature trails, see vast grasslands supporting water and land animals, and sort through ancient piles of oyster shells. History buffs will enjoy the fort exhibit that recalls the lives and deaths of 16th century French colonists along with the Kingsley Plantation, a 19th Century sea island cotton plantation, providing visitors with a view of plantation life through exhibits like the planters' house, barn, and slave quarters. Or if seeking to unwind, why not spend a relaxing day at the beach or kayak through the marshes. Visitors are also invited to explore Fort Caroline and the Preserve Visitor Center and nature lovers will enjoy hiking and biking at the Theodore Roosevelt Area. There's also a marine estuarine environment and surrounding coastal forest—all great for nature observation, birding, and photography, so don't miss this fantastic nature-filled, historical attraction!
Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve is located in Jacksonville, Florida. To get to the Visitor Center, take I-95 to Route 9A (exit 337). Exit again at Monument Road and follow the brown signs to Fort Caroline. Follow Fort Caroline Road to monument and Visitor Center. Enjoy the peace and quiet found so close (and yet so far!) from the big city—bring the family, good walking shoes, and a picnic lunch. Have fun!