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Bike sitting on trail

7 Great Biking Trails in and Around Jacksonville, FL

Florida is where you'll discover many scenic trails for cycling and hiking, whether you're an urban cyclist or in search of a more challenging mountain biking path. You'll find great biking trails when you visit the Jacksonville, FL, area on your next road trip. more 7 Great Biking Trails in and Around Jacksonville, FL 1. Beach and Peach Urban Bike Park This park is ideal for a quick bike ride in the city. You'll enjoy this small, unpaved trail for hiking and cycling around beautiful greenery, a pond for fishing, and picnic areas. It's a conveniently located spot in town, with access to boating and spectacular scenery. 2. Jacksonville Baldwin Rail Trail Jacksonville Baldwin Rail Trail is part of a "Rails to Trails" program that incorporates abandoned railway tracks and lines into parks. This park features an excellent trail system that follows rail trails with extraordinary wildlife, birds, trees, and flowers. You can explore the paths on the bike, on foot, or horseback. Camp Milton Historic Preserve is a park feature, including several trailheads. 3. Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park If you're a nature enthusiast, you'll love the Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park. This remarkable recreational space features excellent cycling trails where you'll find fantastic wildlife, beach access, and many vistas to capture on camera. There's a convenient kayak launch and over 4,000 acres of spectacular nature to discover during your visit. 4. S-Line Urban Greenway Myrtle Trailhead This well-maintained bike path is the perfect way to get active in the city. You'll find this path is ideal for traveling around town and connecting with other trails, roads, and the Farmer's Market. 5. Bulls Bay Preserve Mountain Bike Park If you're planning on riding just one bike path in the city, the Bulls Bay Preserve Mountain Bike Park is a fantastic place to explore. You'll discover lots of incredible sights during your ride, including streams, large shady trees, waterfalls, and lots of rich plant life. It's the ideal place to enjoy hiking or cycling with the family. 6. Seaton Creek Preserve Seaton Creek Preserve is a spectacular oasis in the north part of the city. This park includes hiking and cycling paths, 840 acres of preservation space, historic sites, and a kayak landing. It's an excellent spot for an excursion on the bike trails and the water. There are excellent opportunities to ride off-road, and equestrian paths are available. 7. Tillie Fowler Park Loop Trailhead This popular trail loop offers just over two miles close to Jacksonville. Tillie Fowler Park Loop Trailhead is a pet-friendly spot with lots of scenery to enjoy, whether you're hiking, birdwatching, jogging, or cycling. You'll find the trails easy to navigate and ideal for all skill levels. You can discover lots of great bike trails when you travel to Jacksonville for your next family vacation. Contact us at Tom Bush BMW Orange Park and find out what we have to offer you from our fantastic showroom. You'll find a great selection of new and pre-owned vehicles for all your commuting and road trip plans.

Path through arboretum

5 Favorite Outdoor Activities in and Around Jacksonville, FL

Year-round warm, sunny weather and a varied natural landscape provide numerous opportunities for outdoor activities here in Jacksonville, FL. We relish every chance to get outside, and we've listed some of the best activities for you to enjoy. more 5 Favorite Outdoor Activities in and Around Jacksonville, FL Beaches With 22-mi of beaches, we have more shoreline than any other city in the US. Whether you like surfing, fishing, or just relaxing, there are almost unlimited possibilities here to enjoy fun in the sun. Surfers of every ability can try riding the perfect wave, and if you don't know how to surf, rent a board and try it out! Fishing from Jackson Beach Fishing Pier is another great option for a lazy day; just don't forget to pick up a Florida fishing license first. Finally, for the ultimate relaxation, grab your sunglasses, suntan lotion, and towel and sunbathe in the glorious Florida sun. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens More than 2,000 animals and 1,000 plants call this magnificent 73-acre site their home. The zoo consists of seven distinct environmental areas, from the African Forest to the Land of the Tigers to Wild Florida. Each of these areas provides a glimpse into the unique habitats of the animals and plants that inhabit them. The zoo also houses several conservation projects, and an animal wellness team is available to ensure all the creatures have the best possible care. Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary A center for endangered big cats, and voted Tripadvisor's #1 attraction in Jacksonville. Tigers, lions, bobcats, leopards, and pumas all make this their forever home. Trained volunteers staff the sanctuary, and they can help you learn more about these fascinating creatures and their natural environments. All of the big cats have been rescued from serious situations, and Catty Shack has a strict policy that none of the animals will ever be traded, sold, or bred. Parks Jacksonville has 2 national, 7 state, and 450 urban parks, and we take great pride in having the largest urban park system in the country. Visit the 46,000-acre Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, for example, and scan for otters and dolphins in the sea. Alternatively, travel to the Talbot Islands for some of the most unique ecosystems on Earth. We have a park for any activity you desire, from picnicking to just tossing a frisbee. Metropolitan Park even hosts the yearly Jacksonville Jazz Festival. Jacksonville Arboretum and Botanical Gardens These beautiful gardens span 120-acres and contain 13 distinct ecosystems. Seven trails crisscross the site, providing ample hiking choices and the freedom to enjoy the peace and tranquility of this special place. The gardens are also a true community project, created entirely through donations and built by volunteers. After a day enjoying our beautiful outdoor environment, come and visit us at Tom Bush BMW Orange Park. Our family-owned dealership has been a part of Jacksonville for more than fifty years, and we take great pride in always having the best deal for you.

Picnic basket, flowers, and book

3 Favorite Picnic Spots Near Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville, FL, is the largest and most populous urban area in the state of Florida. Given its sheer size, it is not surprising that this place features some excellent parks and picnic spots that attract locals and visitors from all over the country. Whether you want to stay in the city center or travel a bit to the outskirts, these are some great destinations for a picnic with friends or family. more 3 Favorite Picnic Spots Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Henry J. Klutho Park Spanning an area of a little over 18 acres in the northern part of the Jacksonville city center, Henry J. Klutho Park is part of a series of green areas located along the banks of Hogans Creek. This public recreation area was created between 1899 and 1901 on land that was donated by the Springfield Company. It was here that the first zoo of the city was established in the early 1910s. While Henry J. Klutho Park is relatively small, it is one of the most popular spots for picnics and outdoor gatherings among locals and visitors in Jacksonville. Between 1929 and 1930, architect Henry J. Klutho started a project to redesign the park system of the city, building a Venetian-style promenade along the creek, and redesigning the flower gardens. Thanks to its centric location, this park can be reached by foot from the Jacksonville City Hall in about 15 minutes. 2. Reddie Point Preserve Located along the bend of the St. Johns River, in the Charter Point neighborhood of Jacksonville, Reddie Point Preserve is one of the most popular nature spots in town. Featuring stunning views of the downtown area and the nearby river, this public park is an excellent destination for fishing, hiking, picnicking, and other outdoor activities. Several covered picnic tables, a fishing dock, observation areas, as well as clean toilets, are available for visitors. Getting to Reddie Point Preserve from the Jacksonville City Hall and the downtown area takes about 15 minutes by car, driving eight miles northeast along routes FL-115 and University Boulevard. Once here, you will find a large parking area from where you can easily walk past the fishing pier and through the main hiking trail, which takes you through some shaded paths and all the way to the picnic areas. 3. Ringhaver Park Featuring a riverfront boardwalk and several picnic pavilions, Ringhaver Park is another great destination to spend some quality time with friends or family in a nature reserve without driving too far from the city center. This public park boasts several hiking trails, playgrounds, restrooms, a boat dock, and scenic overlooks that make it a popular weekend destination among locals and visitors alike. Getting here from the Jacksonville downtown area takes about 20 minutes by car along Roosevelt Boulevard. If you are thinking of buying a new or used car in the Jacksonville area, visit us at Tom Bush BMW Orange Park. We have a vast array of models and a team of expert sales agents who will be happy to help you find the best deal.

Woman walking a trail

4 of the Best Hiking Trails and Walking Paths Near Jacksonville, FL

Enjoy the best that Florida has to offer while hiking through some of the most scenic woodlands, tidal marshes, and other unique habitats you can find in Northeast Florida. Check out four of the best hiking trails and walking paths near Jacksonville, FL. more 4 of the Best Hiking Trails and Walking Paths Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Castaway Island Preserve Trails If you want to take a break from city life, Castaway Island is the perfect escape. Located in Jacksonville, Castaway Preserve is a peninsula adjacent to a marsh ecosystem. An ideal location for observing wildlife, the preserve protects over 300 acres of undeveloped wetland. One of the great features of the park is its interactive trail. The mile-long trail is excellent for kids with its education boards and easy markers. For water lovers, kayaking and paddleboards are also available. 2. Black Creek Trail The Black Creek Trail stretches eight miles on Fleming Island. You'll find it on US 17 between the St. Johns River and Doctor's Lake. The Black Creek Trail runs through some very scenic areas and is one of the most popular trails in the county. During your hike, you'll pass through forests and wetlands. Do not forget your camera because it is not unusual to see alligators and other native wildlife! Black Creek is a phenomenal day trip with educational programming, observation decks, and picnic areas. 3. Little Talbot Island State Park Little Talbot Island is a great place to see Florida's native plants and animals in their natural habitat. This state park is 2500 acres and encompasses the entire island. Little Talbot is a barrier island with over five miles of white beaches. Check out Little Talbot's unique park and enjoy walking, hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. The Dune Ridge Trail offers a loop of four miles with five ecosystems, including beach dune, marshland, and sandy beaches. If you decide to hike the trails, bring water and always stop by the Ranger Station! 4. Jacksonville Arboretum and Botanical Gardens The Jacksonville Arboretum is an award-winning botanical garden located in the city of Jacksonville. Spanning twelve acres, the stunning gardens offer seven unique trails with many different types of wildlife and fauna. The natural beauty of this location makes it a great place to find some peace and quiet. Jacksonville Arboretum is unique because of its thirteen different ecosystems, including marshlands, hidden pools, and forests with 1000-year-old trees! If you're looking for an easy trail, you might try the Loop Trail, which takes you .3 miles around the lake. Want something more complex? Try the 1.9-mile Rosemary Ridge Trail, which moves you through gorgeous views and protected habitats. These trails offer a great opportunity to explore some of Florida's most scenic woodlands, tidal marshes, and other unique habitats. Whether you want an easy walk or a more challenging hike, there is something for everyone! Before you head out on your adventure, stop by Tom Bush BMW Orange Park, check out our new cars, and schedule a test drive!

Man swinging a golf club

The Top 4 Golf Courses Near Jacksonville, FL

The golf courses near Jacksonville, FL are some of the best in the country. From world-class amenities to beautiful scenery, all of these courses have something special to offer. So if you're looking for a new course experience, this list is for you! more The Top 4 Golf Courses Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Bent Creek Course The Bent Creek Course is a municipal golf destination. It was designed by Bobby Weed and opened for play in 1989. Bent Creek offers rolling hills with trees lining the fairways on this 18-hole track. The bent grass greens are very large at almost four acres each, and there's water on nine holes to challenge golfers of all skill levels when they're trying to navigate their way around the course. The clubhouse has comfortable facilities, including locker rooms, pro shop, and grill room, while accommodations for players include suites or condos available through affiliated hotels nearby. 2. Hyde Park Golf Club The Hyde Park Golf Club is a great golfing experience for any level of golfer. This 18-hole course layout is challenging, but the scenery and landscaping make up for it. The front nine starts out with two par-threes that are fairly straightforward before getting more challenging as you move back onto the property. There are also plenty of amenities like food carts with hamburgers and hot dogs or beverages to help keep you refreshed on those long rounds. One thing worth mentioning: they have a well-stocked pro shop where customers can find anything from clubs to refreshments as they enjoy their round out here. 3. Brentwood Course The course has nine holes and other great features, such as a driving range with grass tees, a chipping area overlooking the fifth hole, and practice green for putting and short game practice. The facility also has a pro shop selling golf balls and other equipment. In addition, this golfing destination is great for golfers who love to play more than one round in a day since each round of play takes about four hours. The resort also offers tennis courts and an aquatic center featuring pools shaped like Florida's state outline. The terrain is very hilly and features plenty of water hazards, making it challenging but rewarding for players looking to hone their short game skills! 4. San Jose Country Club The San Jose Country Club is a challenging 18-hole course with elevated greens and fairways that meander through pine forests. The club offers dining in the upscale restaurant overlooking their championship-level course or outside on one of the many patios for catering receptions. Guests can also enjoy tennis courts, squash courts, and exercise facilities, including a full racquetball court. The course layout is designed in such a way that players can enjoy the natural beauty of Florida's rugged pine forests as well as views of San Jose Creek's waterfalls from elevated tees on several holes. We believe these courses offer a variety of options that will appeal to golfers at all levels. And on your way home, visit us at Tom Bush BMW Orange Park to get a vehicle that is best suited for your life as well as your financial needs.

Feet sticking out of a tent

5 Favorite Local Camping Areas Near Jacksonville, FL

Whether you are looking for an overnight beachside stay or a tranquil forest retreat, Jacksonville, FL has something for you. Located on the Atlantic Ocean and adorned with mature oaks and pines, this northern part of Florida boasts pristine beaches, abundant fishing, serene canoeing, and miles of hiking. Let's take a look at some of our favorite places for camping. more 5 Favorite Local Camping Areas Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Little Talbot Island State Park Located on Little Talbot Island, this campground is the perfect place to relax under the canopies of oaks and Spanish moss. Set up your tent on the Florida sand, and take a hike to the gorgeous Atlantic beaches or along saltwater creeks through the forest. Enjoy the company of the otters, turtles, and birds as you fish, canoe, or just watch the waves roll in. Strolling on the beach, you'll likely find unique seashells, starfish, and sand dollars. 2. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park For a family weekend excursion, Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is the place to go. In addition to hiking trails lined with palms and boardwalk access to 1.5 miles of soft beach, this park has a lake where the family can kayak, canoe, paddleboat, and fish. Cookout in the picnic areas while the kids exhaust themselves with refreshing fun in the splash park. At the campground store, pick up firewood to end the day sitting out under the stars. 3. Huguenot Campground Located at the oceanfront Huguenot Memorial Park, this Jacksonville campground is right next to the beach. Cast a line into the Atlantic Ocean and watch the boats come in as you unwind to the lulling sounds of the sea. The campground amenities are new, clean, and well-maintained. 4. Cary Campground If you're looking for some peace and relaxation, this campground is located in Cary State Forest. Providing both RV and primitive sites, the forest's most popular activities are wildlife viewing, hiking, fishing and horseback riding. After a day of recreation, rest by the fire in the secluded peacefulness of the spacious sites. You'll be away from the crowds, but still have the amenities of 30/50 amp electricity hookups, water, a cement pad, a fire ring, and benches. 5. Jennings State Forest: Hammock and Bootleggers Campgrounds For those drawn to more secluded and unplugged primitive outings, we recommend Hammock and Bootleggers Campgrounds located in the Jennings State Forest. Just 10 miles southwest of Jacksonville, you will find the quiet, rustic beauty of creeks, tall pine trees, and an abundance of wildlife. The sites are level and spaced far apart, equipped with picnic tables and firepits. The state forest is open for hiking, bicycling, canoeing, and horseback riding. Jacksonville, FL offers wonderful campgrounds to meet your idea of a proper outdoor experience. If you are taking a trip to any of these incredible areas, make sure to do so in the comfort of one of the finest cars or SUVs in the area. Visit Tom Bush BMW Orange Park today where our knowledgeable staff will help you find a vehicle that best suits your needs.

Trees

Top 7 Activities to Enjoy at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park

Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park stretches out for 1.5 miles along beautiful beaches and offers visitors 450 acres of fun-filled adventures. Here you can paddle on the freshwater lake and surf at one of the best beaches in northeast Florida. Bring along your fishing tackle, hiking boots, mountain bike, and pack a picnic basket for a whole day of outdoor activities and adventures. more Top 7 Activities to Enjoy at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park 1. Hiking Over 20 miles of scenic trails run along the beach and between the majestic oaks. The sand, dirt, and boardwalk trails range in difficulty, with some of the tracks suitable for everyone, young and old. On your hike, keep your eyes peeled for alligators around the water and for foxes. 2. Mountain Biking The off-road mountain bike track ranges from easy to difficult with flat sections for the inexperienced rider to challenging areas with obstacles and steep inclines for hardcore mountain bikers. The camping store has mountain bikes available for rental. 3. Kayaking and Canoeing The 60-acre freshwater Hannah Lake is the perfect place to kayak and canoe. The lake is a great place to practice your paddling skills. There are many shady spots close to the shore where you will see a variety of wading birds. Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboats can be rented. The park also offers informative guided tours on the wildlife and history of the park. 4. Surfing The park boasts one of the top surfing spots in the region. Local surfers say The Poles, at the north end of the beach, has some of the best waves in northeast Florida, and experienced surfers wet their boards daily, all year round. This part of the beach is not fit for beginners. 5. Fishing Here you can catch fresh or saltwater fish from either the ocean or Hannah Lake. You can fish from piers, banks, or a boat, and there are several fish attractors around the lake. The lake holds channel catfish, bream, crappie, and bass.  Fishing tackle can be rented at the camp store. 6. Picnicking The beautiful picnic areas under the trees all have tables and grills for barbecues right next to the beach and perfect for family get-togethers and parties. The park also has a splash pad and playground to keep the kids entertained while you prepare lunch. 7. Camping The shady campground is in a wooded area with beautiful old oaks, sweet gums, and palm trees. Bring a tent or roll in with your RV for a few nights to take full advantage of all the activities. The campsites have electric hookups, tables, fire rings, and grills. There are restrooms with hot showers and a dump station. The park also has cozy cabins if you need a bit more luxury. There is a store at the campground that stocks everything you need to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Arrive at the park early in the morning to ensure that you have enough time to enjoy all the great adventures. Visit Tom Bush BMW today. Our dealership offers our customers automotive excellence and complete customer satisfaction.

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