Beautiful Anastasia State Park, located just 32 miles north of Jacksonville, lies along the Atlantic coast on Anastasia Island, minutes from downtown St. Augustine.
Guests to this 1600 acre natural area enjoy swimming, fishing, kayaking, hiking, camping, birdwatching and discovering more about this old and rustic spot.
As the oldest city in the country, St. Augustine has a rich and colorful past. It began as an outpost for Spain’s North American empire in 1565.
Today visitors to this Florida state park experience for themselves the beauty and peacefulness of this mostly undisturbed and pristine island.
Activities
Hike, dig for shells, camp under the stars, listen to the relaxing lull of the ocean, fish for trout, and so much more during your visit to Anastasia State Park. Bring a picnic lunch, or pick up something at the Island Beach Shop and Grill, and enjoy the view from the hilltop picnic area that overlooks the marsh and ocean.
Attend one of the many year round live shows put on at the park’s amphitheater. The park also features an archaeological site, the coquina quarry, and a weekly farmers market where guests can purchase fresh fruits and vegetables and local crafts.
Here are some more activities that you can do during your visit to Anastasia State Park:
Boating at Anastasia State Park
Kayak, canoe or sail along the tidal marsh at Salt Run. Rentals and a boat launch are available at Anastasia Watersports. Rentals include canoes, kayaks, paddleboards and sailboats.
Swimming at Anastasia State Park
Anastasia State Park has 4 miles of gorgeous sandy beach and a designated area for swimmers with a lifeguard. The Island Beach Shop and Grill, located in front of the swimming area, carries beach equipment rentals. And outdoor showers are also available for guests to rinse off.
The park boasts some of the best surfing on the east coast of Florida! Be cautious of the strong currents in the ocean or tidal areas.
Hiking at Anastasia State Park
Walk along the ancient sand dunes and the banks of Salt Run where you will see birds, sea life and beautiful plant life as well as an Old Spanish quarry. Wear sunblock, the trails are partly shaded but the sun can be harsh.
Here are a couple of the trails at Anastasia State Park:
- Marsh Trail – Easy 0.9 mile along the banks of Salt Run. Relaxing walk with beautiful views of the water and wildlife.
- Ancient Dunes Nature Trail – Easy 0.7 mile loop across a foot bridge and through the ancient sand dunes.
- Cape Francis Beach Walk – Easy 7.3 mile round trip trek across the sandy beach and along the coastline with views of the bird sanctuary and occasionally sea turtles.
Biking at Anastasia State Park
Anastasia State Park has bicycle rentals and miles of beach and roads inside the park that are ideal for bikers of all ages.
Fishing at Anastasia State Park
Bring your fishing gear and spend some relaxing time along Salt Run where you can catch trout, flounder and redfish.
The park’s fishing area features a fish identification kiosk, a monofilament bin and a fish-cleaning station. And the Island Beach Shop, inside the park, carries frozen bait such as clams, squid and shrimp. Be sure to pick up a Florida fishing license ahead of time.
Birding at Anastasia State Park
Water birds, shore birds, marsh birds, song birds, raptors.. All may be observed inside this peaceful state park that is along The Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. Observe gulls, osprey, eagles, cardinals, woodpeckers, herons, owls, robins and more.
Nature and Wildlife at Anastasia State Park
Explore the trails, beach and boardwalk to discover many signs of wildlife. See shorebirds, marsh birds, manatees, sea turtles, dolphins, fish, crabs, lizards, squirrels and an occasional alligator during your visit. The endangered Anastasia Island beach mouse lives in the sand dunes.
Pets at Anastasia State Park
Feel free to bring your dog along as you visit Anastasia State Park. Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet and be supervised and cleaned up after. Pets are not allowed in park buildings or in the beach area.
Camping at Anastasia State Park
Bring your RV or tent and stay the night at Anastasia State Park. The campground inside the park has 139 sites for both RVs and tents and is within walking distance to the beach area.
Each campsite has electric and water hookups, a picnic table, fire ring and grill. Four bathhouses with hot showers and laundry facilities are scattered throughout the campground.
Traveling with children under 9? Check out the Bedtime Story Camper Lending Library inside the ranger station. They offer a selection of picture books for younger campers.
Another special feature inside the park is the ranger-led campfire circle with sing-alongs, stories and cooking. Check out the park’s events section for more information.
Park Location
Anastasia State Park
300 Anastasia Park Rd
St. Augustine, FL 32080
Phone: 904.461.2033
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Anastasia State Park:
Leave A Comment