Huguenot Memorial Park | Jacksonville

Huguenot Memorial Park, located in Jacksonville, Florida, is a beautiful 295-acre park that offers a mix of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational activities. It is situated on a peninsula surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the St. Johns River, and Fort George Inlet. The park is part of the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve and provides visitors with a chance to enjoy the area's pristine environment.

Key Features of Huguenot Memorial Park

Natural Environment

The park features a variety of ecosystems, including beaches, tidal flats, salt marshes, and dunes, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts.

Beaches: The park’s beaches provide unspoiled views of the ocean and are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, and fishing. The beach stretches along the Atlantic Ocean, offering plenty of space to relax and enjoy the coastal scenery. Beach access is available via a vehicle-friendly sand area, where visitors can drive directly onto the beach, a feature that is rare in Duval County. However, access may be restricted during certain seasons for wildlife protection, such as nesting shorebirds.

Wildlife and Birdwatching: The park is a haven for birdwatchers. It is recognized by the Duval Audubon Society and is a stop on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. Over 250 bird species have been recorded in the area, including migratory birds and shorebirds. The diverse habitats within the park attract a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, and numerous coastal birds, making it a prime location for nature observation and photography.

Recreational Activities

Huguenot Memorial Park offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors of all interests, from beach lovers to those seeking more adventurous pursuits.

Beach Driving: One of the park’s unique features is its allowance of vehicles on the beach, making it easy for visitors to transport their gear and set up their area on the sand. Visitors can enjoy the beach with the convenience of having their vehicle nearby, making it ideal for families and groups. During certain months, access may be restricted to protect nesting shorebirds, and visitors are required to drive at a 5 mph speed limit to ensure the safety of wildlife.

Camping: Huguenot Memorial Park offers a primitive camping experience with 70 campsites equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. While there are no water or sewer hookups available at the sites, visitors can access centralized potable water and dump stations. The park offers both tent and RV camping. Tent campsites are $22.70 per night, while RV sites are available for $27.24 per night. The camping areas are perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature, with close access to the beach and other park amenities.

Water Sports: Visitors can engage in various water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing. The park has a boat ramp that provides access to non-motorized vessels, making it an excellent location for water enthusiasts. The calm waters of the nearby Fort George Inlet offer the perfect setting for exploring by kayak or paddleboard, while the beach is great for surfing.

Fishing: Anglers can fish from the beach or the adjacent Fort George Inlet. The waters here are home to various fish species, including redfish, flounder, and bluefish. Fishing is a popular activity, and visitors can cast their lines directly from the shore or use the inlet for deeper waters.

Nature Center: The Nature Center at Huguenot Memorial Park offers an educational experience for visitors of all ages. Open daily from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., the Nature Center features exhibits about the local flora and fauna. It provides interactive displays that teach visitors about the diverse ecosystems within the park, including the plants and animals that inhabit the area.

Amenities

The park is well-equipped with several amenities to ensure visitors have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Picnic Areas: Huguenot Memorial Park features multiple picnic shelters that are perfect for family gatherings, cookouts, and outdoor meals. These shelters are equipped with picnic tables and grills, offering a great space to enjoy the natural surroundings. The park’s picnic areas are ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring.

Restrooms & Showers: Modern restroom facilities are available throughout the park, including shower stations for both day-use visitors and campers. The showers allow visitors to rinse off after a day at the beach or participating in other outdoor activities.

Playground: A playground made from Robinia wood was added to the park in 2021. This wooden play structure is designed to blend seamlessly with the park's natural surroundings. It is ideal for families visiting with children, providing a fun space for them to enjoy after spending time outdoors.

Accessibility: The park is designed to be accessible to all visitors. Accessible picnic tables, trails, and camping areas ensure that people with disabilities can enjoy the park’s amenities and natural beauty. These features provide equal opportunities for everyone to experience the park.

Fees & Hours

The park has a reasonable entrance fee, which varies depending on how visitors access the park.

Admission Fees:

Pedestrians & Bicycles: $3

Vehicles (up to 6 people): $5

Additional passengers in a vehicle: $1 each

Annual Pass: $99.46

Military Discount: 50% off with valid ID

Camping Fees:

Tent Sites: $22.70 per night

RV Sites: $27.24 per night

Pet Fee: $5.38 per pet, per stay (limit of three pets per site)

Hours of Operation:

Daylight Savings Time (March–November): 6:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Eastern Standard Time (November–March): 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Note that the park entrance gate closes one hour before closing time.

Location & Contact

Address: 10980 Heckscher Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32226

Phone: (904) 255-4255

Huguenot Memorial Park is a hidden gem in Jacksonville, offering a variety of activities and stunning natural landscapes. Whether you are looking to spend a relaxing day at the beach, go camping, enjoy water sports, or explore the diverse wildlife, the park provides a beautiful and tranquil environment for all visitors. It’s an excellent choice for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking to connect with nature.