Timucuan Ecological & Historical Preserve

The Timucuan Ecological & Historical Preserve is a 46,000 acre preserve with parks, historical sites, visitor centers, campgrounds, and practically anything the outdoor enthusiast may enjoy during his or her trip to northeast Florida. Located near Jacksonville, Florida, the Timucuan Preserve shares both the rich natural history of the region as well as pieces of the past of both the original settlers and the American Indians who once called this land their home.

Located within the city limits of Jacksonville, Florida, Timucuan Ecological & Historical Preserve is an excellent spot for a one day get away or a week long vacation. Beaches, hiking trails, and water sports abound throughout the area, making it an ideal location for education and relaxation.

What to Expect

Any person visiting the Preserve should not forget to stop by the Fort Caroline National Memorial. This site displays the true beginnings of the United States, informing visitors about the first meetings between the American Indians and the European settlers.

Be sure to visit the Timucuan Preserve Visitor Center, located at the Fort Caroline National Memorial. The center is home to an exhibit titled “Where the Waters Meet,” a narrative about the history of the environment in northeast Florida.

Those who enjoy being active while in the outdoors should consider going for a hike through the Preserve’s trails, can rent a kayak or canoe to take part in water sports, could go camping at Little Talbot Island State Park or Huguenot Memorial Park, or could just enjoy viewing the natural inhabitants of the area.

Also worth seeing is the Kingsley Plantation. Built by Zephaniah Kingsley in the early 19th century, this site allows visitors to explore the slave quarters, barn, garden, and the plantation house.

The Theodore Roosevelt area is a 600 acre plot of the Preserve. This area is ideal for nature walks, as it contains several miles of hiking trails, and a vast number of animals that are native the region.

The 400 acre Cedar Point was once a pine plantation. Now a preserved environment, Cedar Point is popular with those for fishermen, as it is sadi that the spot houses the best fishing in this part of Florida. Bird watchers also enjoy Cedar Point for its over 200 bird species.

The University of North Florida is the only university in the state located on a wildlife refuge. The university’s UNF Wildlife Sanctuary and Robert W. Loftin Nature Trails are open to the public. The area contains both canoe rentals and fishing spots.

Tips for Visiting

When travelling to the Timucuan Ecological & Historical Preserve, visitors are recommended to be well prepared. It is wise to plan out the trip well in advance. Because of the sheer size of the Preserve, locating maps of the area and determining which places to visit is a definite must.

Regardless of the time of year, visitors are well served to remember to pack sunscreen and insect repellent and keep it on hand at all times. It is also a good idea to bring plenty of drinking water, as it is possible to enter certain areas of the Preserve that do not have adequate water supplies available.

Visitors that travel with pets are expected to keep animals on a leash of no longer than six feet in nearly all areas of the Preserve.

One of the most important items to remember is to always stick to marked trails and carry a map of any hiking areas. The National Parks Service also recommends that anyone who plans on going hiking carry a walking stick.

For more information, see our Timucuan Preserve Overview