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Picnic spots in Jacksonville

A picnic is only as good as the location you choose to set up your spread.

Based on 628 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Elizabeth "Betty" Wolfe Park image 1
Elizabeth "Betty" Wolfe Park image 2
Elizabeth "Betty" Wolfe Park image 3
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Park offers large boulders for climbing and accessible workout stations along a 0.25-mile track. Shady playground includes equipment for all ages with slides, swings, and monkey bars. Two gazebos with grilling stations support family cookouts in a calm, relaxing atmosphere.

Rock climbing area offers a fun and adventurous activity for children. Workout stations provide fun exercise options for elderly and wheelchair users.

Covered pavilions with BBQ grills and a cabana make outdoor meals easy. Trash cans nearby keep the area clean for picnic parties.

People are saying

"This park is really kid friendly with a great playground."

"The parking available here is pretty limited."

"It's a fun place for kids to enjoy activities."

Good to know

1

Parking is very limited at the park, especially on busy days.

2

There are no restrooms available at the park.

3

Accessing the park can be difficult due to neighborhood parking issues.

02
Reddie Point Preserve image 1

Long pier extends into the river offering incredible sunset views and multiple spots for fishing. Quiet, peaceful atmosphere with clean surroundings and gentle marsh breezes creates a relaxing environment. Trails, picnic areas with grills, and dog-friendly spaces add to the natural charm.

Sunshine and outdoor space create a fun atmosphere at this preserve. The park offers a surprisingly enjoyable experience for visitors.

Miles of trails and covered picnic gazebos with tables create a great spot for a picnic. The area also offers picnic tables and grills near scenic views and docks.

People are saying

"You can see the sunset from the pier with a beautiful view."

"It's a fun park for walking your dog."

"It's a great nature spot with picnic tables and beautiful views."

Good to know

1

The last guided tour typically starts around 4:00 PM, so plan accordingly.

2

There is a lot of access for river fishing, both at the dock and on the shore.

3

The small beach access has no lifeguard present.

03
Tommy Hazouri Sr. Park image 1

Park offers peaceful river views and shaded playgrounds with modern equipment for children. Trails wind through wooded areas suitable for walking and dog outings. Facilities include a boat ramp, kayak launch, and a dock with seating overlooking water.

The playground offers revamped equipment that keeps younger kids entertained for hours. Older kids find fewer options but still enjoy the overall fun atmosphere.

Several picnic tables, benches, and covered shelters are scattered throughout the park. Grills are available for barbecues, and the picnic areas sit near a large playground.

People are saying

"The playground has two separate pirate ships for different age groups."

"The playground is a fun activity for kids."

"The playground here is large with scattered covered picnic areas."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited near the pavilions hosting parties.

2

The restrooms need desperate attention.

3

The playground was recently redone and is beautiful now.

04
Fort Family Park image 1

Sports fields and courts for baseball, soccer, tennis, and pickleball spread across a spacious, well-lit park with walking trails and a playground featuring brand new equipment. The atmosphere stays lively during tournaments but offers a quiet, family-friendly environment otherwise. Views overlook docks, adding a scenic backdrop to recreational activities.

Brand new equipment offers fun activities for kids from toddlers to teens. The park has options for all ages, including tennis courts where elderly people play.

Multiple picnic areas include covered spots and tables. A pavilion adds shelter, and a separate toddlers area sits near the picnic zones.

People are saying

"I found the parks beautiful and well-maintained."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with covered areas and nice facilities."

"I found the fun activities here to be so much fun and amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking availability is often limited during events, so arrive early.

2

The park hosts organized activities almost every night.

3

The concession stand closes before games finish, so plan accordingly.

05
Friendship Fountain image 1

Large fountain with impressive water effects sits beside a river, offering amazing city and bridge views. Atmosphere is relaxing and peaceful, enhanced by light shows and live music. Playground and shaded seating areas make it family-friendly and suitable for casual gatherings.

Energy and fun fill the space with a beautiful fountain that offers a relaxing and amazing sight. Kids enjoy a family friendly park designed for memorable moments.

Grassy areas and plenty of seating create ideal picnic spots. Upgraded fountain and picnic tables add to the experience.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful view of the city and bridges across the water."

"It's a fun place for kids with a great playground."

"It's a beautiful place for a picnic, especially with the nightly light and music show."

Good to know

1

The event occurs on the second Saturday of the month at 7pm.

2

Friendship Fountain hosts shows with lights and music at 7, 8, and 9 pm.

3

The water show occurs at 8:00, 8:30, and 9:00 PM.

06
Ed Austin Regional Park image 1

Sprawling open fields and multiple playgrounds create a versatile space for families and sports enthusiasts. Walking trails and an eclectic skatepark offer peaceful retreats and active recreation. A large dog park and facilities for soccer, baseball, and frisbee golf support a wide range of outdoor activities.

Many options for recreation and sports exist, including an 18-hole disc golf course. The park offers fun areas for kids and enjoyable walking paths.

Open spaces include picnic tables in the dog park area and several picnic areas throughout. Groups use these spots for family outings and team celebrations.

People are saying

"You can play disc golf, baseball, and soccer at these parks."

"It's a huge park, perfect for picnics and family outings."

"I found the disc golf course really fun and nice."

Good to know

1

A free 5k run happens every Saturday at 7:30 am.

2

The park has a variety of sports facilities including soccer, basketball, and baseball.

3

There are two dog parks: one for small dogs and a larger shaded area for big dogs.

07
Tree Hill Nature Center image 1

Large trees with Spanish Moss frame peaceful walking trails through an organic, quiet forest setting. Interactive areas include petting goats and reptiles, alongside picnic spots that invite relaxation. The atmosphere stays serene and natural, offering a safe, calm place for families and nature lovers.

Many pathways for exploration let kids roam freely. The spot features cool animals and offers a mix of educational and fun outdoor adventure for toddlers and young children.

Picnic benches provide a great spot for meals. Many picnic tables create a peaceful outdoor lunch setting.

People are saying

"It's a great Kid Friendly spot to see and pet fun animals."

"It's a fun little hidden gem for kids."

"There are several very nice picnic areas with plenty of tables."

Good to know

1

Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for children, and free for babies/toddlers.

2

The Butterfly Festival features food vendors, crafters, and musicians annually.

3

The butterfly releasing event occurs once a year and is a highlight.

08
Castaway Island Preserve image 1

Raised boardwalks and concrete sidewalks wind through scenic salt marshes and Intracoastal Waterway views. The atmosphere stays quiet and serene, offering semi-private picnic areas and a kayak and paddle board launch for outdoor activities.

A fun nature trail features educational animal footprints and plaques along the way. The overall experience offers engaging outdoor activities that keep things lively.

Shaded picnic tables and a grill area make it easy to enjoy meals outdoors. The spot offers a peaceful setting ideal for relaxing and eating with family.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the amazing, gorgeous scenery and breathtaking views."

"It's a beautiful, peaceful place for a picnic with amazing wildlife."

"I found the experience to be a lot of fun."

Good to know

1

Parking is free at Castaway Island Preserve.

2

The preserve has a kayak and paddle board launch area.

3

There are picnic tables and restrooms available.

09
Losco Regional Park image 1

Spacious park with beautiful old oak trees and well-shaded natural trails creates a peaceful, quiet atmosphere. Large playgrounds with splash pads and soccer fields attract families and children. Covered pavilions and picnic areas support community gatherings and outdoor activities.

A playground with a splash park and additional attractions like spinning wheels and a teeter-totter offers fun for all ages. Plenty of benches and clean play arenas make it a lively spot for outdoor activities.

Large park with covered picnic tables and a pavilion offers plenty of spots to eat outdoors. Beautiful old oak trees provide shady picnic areas near play structures like swings and climbing equipment.

People are saying

"I found the park to be very clean and pleasant."

"It's a fun park with play arenas suitable for all ages."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with a big playground."

Good to know

1

Parking is usually available, but some park on curves and crosswalks.

2

The splash pad has been out of service during recent visits.

3

The public restrooms may not be well-maintained.

10
Boone Park image 1

Large park with dramatic trees and paved walking trails offers a peaceful atmosphere and plenty of kid-friendly playgrounds. Tennis and pickleball courts add active recreation options. Benches and picnic areas provide spots for relaxation amid a well-maintained, clean environment.

Lots of fun equipment suits all ages and keeps kids active. The park stays well maintained and offers plenty of shade for comfortable play.

Lots of picnic tables and grills sit near wooded paths and a playground. Shelters and restrooms add convenience for families enjoying a meal outdoors.

People are saying

"This park is a nice, well-maintained place for kids and dogs."

"It's a nice park with peaceful shade trees for a picnic."

"It's a lot of fun for the kids with the playground equipment."

Good to know

1

Boone Park has no bathrooms, which can be inconvenient for families.

2

The park features paved paths suitable for small electric vehicles.

3

There are playgrounds on both the North and South ends of Boone Park.

11
Tillie K. Fowler Regional Park image 1

Park offers well-kept hiking and bike trails with varying difficulty levels and an observation tower overlooking marsh and river views. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful, surrounded by abundant nature and protected vegetation. Features include a family-friendly playground, dog park, and a nature center with live animals.

Trails offer easy and fun hikes with well kept paths. Family activities happen under the sun, making it a spot for outdoor enjoyment.

Shaded picnic tables sit near a playground and a large field. Restrooms are close by, making it easy to enjoy a picnic with kids.

People are saying

"I loved the nature trails and observation tower overlooking the river."

"The trails here are fun and well-kept for your picnic."

"The playground is shaded and has covered picnic tables."

Good to know

1

The park hours are from sunrise to sunset; night visits are considered trespassing.

2

Bring water for pets as the park lacks water fountains.

3

Free yoga classes are held on Thursdays at 6 in the nature center.

12
Huffman Boulevard Park image 1

Playground features a pirate theme with large canopy sail shades covering the entire play area, creating a safe, cushioned surface with rubber padding and artificial turf. The park maintains a quiet, peaceful atmosphere with well-kept spaces for families and children to enjoy various activities.

Clean and engaging play equipment offers lots of fun in a compact play yard. Diverse cultural activities add learning and excitement for kids.

Covered awning with two large picnic tables provides a good spot for family breaks and meals. Facilities include bathrooms, trashcans, benches, and music stations near the playground.

People are saying

"This playground is really kid friendly, with lots of musical toys."

"It's a great place for kids and family picnics."

"It's a fun little park with engaging play equipment for kids."

Good to know

1

The pavilion rental costs $10 for the entire day and includes a grill.

2

The bathrooms are often unclean and may not be suitable for use.

3

The park features shaded areas, making it comfortable for visitors.

13
Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens image 1

Botanical garden with paved walkways, boardwalk, and trails set in a unique ravines atmosphere. The space feels peaceful and serene, featuring beautifully landscaped areas alongside natural scenery. Visitors find quiet spots with benches and picnic tables near a lake, creating a calm environment for walking, relaxing, or meditating.

Special events offer fun and festive experiences that suit families well. The silent disco stands out as a unique and enjoyable activity.

Many picnic spots feature picnic tables in a large open area surrounded by varieties of flowers along the trails. A charming spot near the lush gardens offers a box of books to read while enjoying a meal.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful and peaceful place to walk."

"The parks here have beautiful, well-maintained trails and dense foliage."

"It's a great place for a picnic with many trails to explore."

Good to know

1

Now, the gardens charge an entrance fee for every person.

2

Visitors should beware of snakes and alligators in the lake since it is their habitat.

3

The Arboretum is dog friendly, but dogs must be leashed.

14
Riverside Park image 1

Open green spaces with river views and large oak trees create a serene atmosphere. Amenities include playgrounds, dog parks, and a basketball court, attracting families and pet owners. The park offers a peaceful retreat with plenty of benches and shaded areas for relaxation.

Dog park offers a great spot for pets to play. Events here feel peaceful and provide easy ways to have fun outdoors.

Lush green spaces and open fields offer plenty of room for picnics and casual games. Picnic tables sit near a kid-friendly playground and basketball courts, making it easy to relax and play.

People are saying

"It's a peaceful green space perfect for relaxing strolls."

"It's a peaceful spot with open green spaces perfect for a picnic."

"It's so much fun bringing your dog to the dog park here."

Good to know

1

Expect limited restroom facilities as there are none available in the park.

2

Parking can be hard to find at times, especially during events.

3

The playground equipment is occasionally broken and may need repairs.

15
Ringhaver Park image 1

Forest setting includes scenic trails, a wooden bridge, and kayak access to a river. Multiple playgrounds cater to different age groups with inclusive features and rubberized surfaces. Sports fields, tennis courts, and picnic shelters support a variety of outdoor activities in a family-friendly atmosphere.

A large space offers nature walks and a new enclosed playground for kids. The children's area provides plenty of room for play and fun activities.

Shaded areas and a big covered pavilion offer plenty of picnic tables. Separate play areas for kids include covered shelters with picnic spots nearby.

People are saying

"The playground has a huge slide and newer equipment."

"The playground here is great for kids, with separate areas and soft ground."

"The new playground facilities are great fun for kids."

Good to know

1

The park has a fenced-in area for children to play safely.

2

There are two newly renovated playgrounds suitable for kids.

3

The bathrooms at the park often need attention and may be closed.

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Jacksonville, Florida

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