(Last Updated On: December 13, 2022)
Ribault Inn Club at Fort George Island Cultural State Park

Ribault Inn Club at Fort George Island Cultural State Park. Photo: Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Hike, bike, kayak, picnic and more at this historical resort in Jacksonville, Florida. One of the picturesque Talbot Islands, Fort George Island Cultural State Park features a 1920s style resort and former golf course. The former Ribault Inn Club is now used as the parkโ€™s visitor center but may be rented for special occasions.

This state park and Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park, Amelia Island State Park, Little Talbot Island State Park, Yellow Bluff Fort Historic State Park, Big Talbot Island State Park and George Crady Bridge Fishing Pier State Park make up the 7 Talbot Island State Parks. Each of these Florida state parks has something unique to offer its visitors.

Activities

Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a leisurely afternoon at Fort George Island Cultural State Park. The parkโ€™s picnic area lies along the marshland behind the majestic Ribault club and offers breathtaking views of the Fort George River.

The parkโ€™s sweeping lawns and grounds are ideal for walking, bird watching and playing croquet or bocce ball (lawn games are available within the visitor center). The visitor center, located inside the historic Ribault Club, features interpretive exhibits of the areaโ€™s rich history.

The Clubโ€™s grand rooms are available for weddings and other special events.

Here are some of the activities that you can do during your visit to Fort George Island Cultural State Park:

Boating at Fort George Island Cultural State Park

Spend a peaceful day paddling along the shoreline of Fort George Island Cultural State Park. Access to the water is possible from a small boat ramp located behind The Ribault Clubhouse.

For canoe and kayak rentals head over to Kayak Amelia. This nearby concessionaire also offers guided paddle trips, and carries maps, souvenirs and snacks.

Hiking at Fort George Island Cultural State Park

The Fairway Loop Trail is a 4 mile hiking and biking trail across the former Fort George golf course. Spectacular views of the marsh, Fort George River and Mount Cornelia (one of the tallest sand dunes on the eastern coast) may be seen along this trail.

Access to the National Park Service trails is available here as well. From this nearby trail system visitors are able to walk out to the nearby historic 1700 Kingsley Plantation.

Biking at Fort George Island Cultural State Park

Ride along the 4 mile Fairway Loop Trail that extends across the former golf course inside Fort George Island Cultural State Park. Bring your own bikes or pick up a rental at Kelly Seahorse Ranch, inside nearby Amelia Island State Park. Trail guides are available at the Ribault Club and at the Little Talbot Island Ranger Station.

Please be aware that helmets are required by law for all riders under the age of 16.

Fishing at Fort George Island Cultural State Park

Fish for largemouth bass, catfish, snook, red drum, black drum, flounder, seatrout, bluefish, whiting, tarpon and croaker along the shore inside Fort George Island Cultural State Park. Remember to pick up a Florida fishing license ahead of time.

Nearby George Crady Bridge fishing Pier State Park also provides excellent fishing opportunities. And their On the Line Bait & Tackle Shop carries bait and tackle supplies as well as snacks and drinks.

Birding at Fort George Island Cultural State Park

Bird watching is very popular throughout the Talbot Islands and Fort George Island Cultural State Park is no exception. Shorebirds, wading birds, birds of prey and songbirds are seen in abundance here.

Grab your binoculars, you just might see Black Skimmers, terns, willets, herons, egrets, bald eagles, Great Horned Owls, woodpeckers and pelicans during your visit. Please be aware that some beaches may close between March and September to protect nesting bird species.

Nature and Wildlife at Fort George Island Cultural State Park

Fort George Island Cultural State Park is part of the coastal Talbot Islands. Visitors to this part of the state enjoy seeing birds, sea turtles, dolphins, white-tailed deer, squirrels, fish, alligators, snakes, opossums, raccoons, and bobcats.

Pets at Fort George Island Cultural State Park

Rest assured, pets are allowed within Fort George Island Cultural State Park. Pets must be supervised and remain on a hand held leash no longer than 6 feet. They are not permitted inside any park buildings or along the shore.

Camping Near Fort George Island Cultural State Park

Fort George Island Cultural State park provides day time recreational activities only. For overnight accommodations check out nearby Little Talbots Island State Park.

This picturesque coastal park has 36 campsites with electric and water hookups, a picnic table and a fire ring. Each site is within walking distance to restrooms, hot showers and laundry facilities. The park is located at 12157 Heckscher Drive in Jacksonville. For more information and to make a reservation: call 1-800-326-3521.

Park Location

Fort George Island Cultural State Park
12241 Fort George Rd
Jacksonville, FL 32226
Phone: 904.251.2320

Park Website

Map

Video

Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Fort George Island Cultural State Park: