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.

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.

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