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Local picks in Jacksonville

Kid-friendly picnics

Made for those who refuse to choose between keeping their children entertained and enjoying an afternoon meal on a blanket.

Based on 850 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Reddie Point Preserve image 1
Reddie Point Preserve image 2
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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.

A long pier offers a great spot for kids to run and watch tug boats. Sidewalks support stroller-friendly walks and fishing opportunities keep children engaged.

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 great nature spot with picnic tables and beautiful views."

"The pier is great for kids to run down and watch boats."

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.

02
Elizabeth "Betty" Wolfe Park image 1

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.

A variety of play equipment suits toddlers and older kids up to about 12 years old. The rock climbing area adds a fun, adventurous option for children who like to explore.

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."

"This park is so clean and nice for a picnic."

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.

03
Stinson Park image 1

Park offers peaceful atmosphere with beautiful river and city skyline views. It features a well-maintained playground for children and a boat dock providing water access. Visitors often enjoy quiet reflection, picnics, and walking dogs in this clean, scenic setting.

A meticulously maintained playground offers fun activities for kids. The park provides a nice spot for children to play and get some exercise with great views around.

Open grassy areas offer plenty of room for picnics, flying kites, and family gatherings. Picnic tables and benches match the park's size and parking availability, making it easy to settle in and enjoy the views.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful place with amazing views of the city."

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

"It's a great place to take the kids for a picnic."

Good to know

1

There are no restrooms at Stinson Park.

2

Parking at Stinson Park is very limited and fills up fast.

3

The park has beautiful views of the water and downtown skyline.

04
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.

Large playground offers excellent fun for kids. Plenty of shade and nearby spots to relax with coffee make it easy to watch children play.

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 really fun and Kid Friendly for all ages."

"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.

05
Tillie Fowler Park Loop Trailhead image 1

Flat, shaded trails wind through a protected natural flood plain with unique flora and a bamboo forest. The area includes dog-friendly spaces, playgrounds, and multiple trail difficulties, attracting walkers, bikers, and families. Wildlife sightings are common, though the nearby train tracks limit territorial animals.

Playground offers a nice spot for kids to enjoy. Plenty of space to bike around and other areas for kids to play.

Many picnic tables sit near playgrounds and walking trails. Bathrooms and a fenced dog park trail add convenience for groups spending time outdoors.

People are saying

"The park trails are great for biking and hiking."

"The trails here are great for walking with your dog."

"You can bike and hike on the flat, muddy pine trails."

Good to know

1

The park has beginner, intermediate, and advanced trails for all skill levels.

2

Restrooms and a drinking fountain are available throughout the park.

3

The park features both small and large dog parks for different sizes.

06
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.

Wide open spaces and a brand new playground with a tall slide and connecting bridge keep kids entertained. Facilities include a water park, pavilion, picnic tables, and sports fields, all with a centrally located gazebo for easy supervision.

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."

"This place is so kid friendly with a wonderful playground."

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

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.

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.

Educational outdoor adventure keeps kids engaged with hands-on learning about plants and animals. Friendly staff welcome toddlers and older kids enjoy the playground and animal encounters.

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."

"I found the nature trails here to be long and peaceful."

"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
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.

New playground offers fun for kids of all ages, keeping them busy for long stretches. The fountain provides a great visual attraction that kids and adults enjoy together.

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."

"The playground here is really nice and great for kids."

"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.

09
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.

A fully gated playground offers a safe space for young children to play. The play area has plenty of shade and features swings that get a 10 out of 10 rating from kids.

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 so dog friendly, I loved the dog park here."

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

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.

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.

Well-designed playground offers a safe and enjoyable space for kids to play freely. Plenty of space and shaded areas let children run, have fun, and burn energy while parents relax nearby.

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."

"The playground setup here is really nice for kids."

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

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
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.

Easy loops offer nature walks suitable for kids and pets on leashes. Trails feature footprint signs that kids enjoy following, making the area very kid friendly.

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."

"The kid-friendly trail has fun footprints and signs explaining wildlife."

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.

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.

Safe surfaces like artificial turf and rubberized ground cover make the playground toddler friendly. Shade and seating areas let adults watch kids comfortably while they play and explore.

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."

"I noticed there was plenty of parking available."

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
Alejandro Garces Camp Tomahawk Park image 1

Walking trails wind gently through a lush canopy of tall pines, oaks, and vibrant saw palmetto fronds, offering a peaceful slice of old Florida wilderness. Benches, playgrounds, and covered picnic areas create a family-friendly atmosphere that stays lively on sunny days. The park combines well-maintained trails, playground facilities, kayak launch, and a spacious open field for varied outdoor activities.

A playground with swingsets, slides, and a climbing structure suits smaller kids and toddlers. A flat, open field offers space for running and ball games, making it a solid spot for families with young children.

Covered picnic tables come with benches and a grill. Nearby, a water bottle refill station and BBQ facilities support outdoor meals.

People are saying

"The nature trail is quiet, with a satisfying crunch underfoot."

"The covered picnic area has tables, benches, and a grill."

"It's so Kid Friendly with awesome trails for walking."

Good to know

1

The park has well-marked and well-maintained trails for easy navigation.

2

The park features a shaded playground suitable for children.

3

Bathrooms are available, but bring hand sanitizer as soap may not be provided.

14
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.

Splashpad and playground offer fun spots for kids to play. Paved paths let kids ride bikes safely while staying in sight. Trails near the soccer fields suit kids who can handle a short loop.

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 great Kid Friendly spot with a fun playground and splash pad."

"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.

15
Walter Jones Historic Park image 1

Historic cottages and a long boardwalk extend along the riverbank, offering waterfront views and a peaceful atmosphere. Trees and gardens create a scenic, quiet setting where fishing and nature walks are common. Amenities include picnic tables, benches, and a boat ramp for hand-launched boats.

Paths perfect for toddlers encourage walking and leaf collecting. Water walkways offer safe spots for kids to run and play. No playground exists, but children stay interested during visits.

Plenty of spots offer space to sit or enjoy a quiet picnic. The area feels a bit isolated, making it good for a relaxing stroll alongside your meal.

People are saying

"I loved the park's peaceful riverfront views and shaded trails."

"It's a perfect place for a picnic with beautiful river views."

"It's a great place to bring the kids."

Good to know

1

On the first Saturday of the month, all the buildings are open with docents.

2

There are only two handicapped parking spaces available at the park.

3

The museum covers the history of citrus plantations and the black experience.

16
Alexandria Oaks Park image 1

Large park with majestic oak trees and spacious open fields creates a peaceful, quiet atmosphere. Paved loop trail supports walking, biking, and rollerblading, while soccer fields and a volleyball net attract active groups. Dog-friendly environment with shade and benches encourages family outings and casual play.

Open spaces offer plenty of room for kids to run, play, or ride bikes. Large soccer fields and picnic areas support active family fun.

Open space under majestic trees offers a calm, peaceful setting for picnics. It suits solo rides, romantic outings, or group gatherings with room for activities like bike riding.

People are saying

"It's a great dog friendly place for walking your dogs."

"It's a gorgeous, spacious park perfect for a picnic."

"It's really kid friendly with lots of open space to run."

Good to know

1

The park does not have a kids' playground or any structures.

2

Dogs are not allowed to be off leash here.

3

Parking is only available on the street.

17
Jacksonville Drew Park image 1

Park offers newly renovated fields including turf infields and softball/baseball facilities with ample shade and picnic pavilions. Playground is recently updated, clean, and suitable for all ages. Plenty of space and trails encourage walking, biking, and outdoor family activities.

Open spaces offer plenty of room for kids to run around. A playground suits all ages with equipment that welcomes both small and big kids. Kids often find new friends for games like tag in the area.

Several gazebos with picnic tables and open pavilions provide spots for picnics. Plenty of picnic tables are scattered around, suitable for kids or working outdoors.

People are saying

"It's a great Kid Friendly spot with a newly renovated, fun playground."

"The fields for live sports are really nice and well-kept."

"There were several gazebos with picnic tables available."

Good to know

1

The playground equipment was recently updated by the city in Summer 2025.

2

There are pavilions available for picnics.

3

Parking is convenient for lunch and the ball game.

18
Memorial Park image 1
Memorial park

Open space by the waterfront offers beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere. People engage in activities like fishing, dancing, and soccer on the big open lawn. Plenty of benches provide spots to relax amid clean, tranquil surroundings.

Open fields offer plenty of space for kids to run, ride bikes, and climb trees while adults can relax nearby. Lack of playground equipment means activities focus on natural play, but caution is needed near the water's edge.

Open space and beautiful scenery make it ideal for picnics. The area suits couples and groups looking to relax, walk, or enjoy a picnic date.

People are saying

"This park is beautiful, peaceful, and perfect for relaxing."

"It's a nice place for a picnic with a beautiful view of the river."

"It's a great Kid Friendly spot with plenty of room for the children to play."

Good to know

1

There are no public restrooms available in Memorial Park.

2

A free market occurs on the first Saturday of every month.

3

Expect to see various activities like soccer and acro-yoga on weekends.

19
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.

Kid-friendly playground offers a clean and safe space for children to play and interact. Nearby, basketball courts provide extra fun for older kids, while the fenced area adds safety for kids running around. A duck pond invites quiet moments feeding ducks and observing wildlife.

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 great spot for kids to play on the playground."

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

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.

20
Nacho Taco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with outdoor seating only featuring shaded picnic tables under umbrellas and awnings. Atmosphere is friendly and inviting with background music and a bustling but not chaotic vibe at lunch. Offers a hole-in-the-wall feel with a quaint, well-presented setup ideal for enjoying cool evening breezes.

Kids meals come in large portions that can satisfy adults. The kids bean burrito and quesadilla are solid choices. Fries are a hit with children here.

Lots of shaded picnic benches and tables sit under umbrellas and awnings. Outdoor seating offers a quaint spot to enjoy cool evening breezes and the energy of downtown or Five Points.

People are saying

"I thought the food was amazing and delicious."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"You can sit at the shaded picnic tables outside."

Good to know

1

Nacho Taco is takeout only, with no dine-in service available.

2

They offer a variety of vegan options that cater to different tastes.

3

Parking is limited, so plan accordingly when visiting.

21
Chuck Rogers Park image 1

Park offers large soccer fields and a walking track surrounded by shady trees. Atmosphere stays quiet and tucked away, with busy times during soccer leagues. Playground areas vary, with some sections recently renovated or under construction.

Giant playsets and a dedicated baby/toddler section offer varied climbing options. A large soccer field and covered picnic tables provide space for running and family gatherings.

Covered picnic tables offer shaded spots for meals near a playground surrounded by trees. Bathrooms are closed, but the area includes a large soccer field and water features.

People are saying

"The soccer fields are nice for live sports, though the spectator areas lack seating."

"The picnic tables here are covered and shaded by trees."

"The playground here is really nice with lots of climbing options."

Good to know

1

The playground has been removed and is currently under construction.

2

Parking can be very challenging during soccer games and tournaments.

3

Restrooms are available but may be locked or in poor condition.

22
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.

Activities include a magic light tunnel and a surprise with different textures to touch. The space is clean, safe, and affordable with options like Santa visits for kids.

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."

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

"The holiday lights were really fun and kid friendly."

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.

23
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.

Playgrounds include unique climbing activities and obstacle courses with swings. Shaded areas near picnic tables and restrooms support family visits. Trails offer easy walks suitable for kids.

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."

"It's a great spot with an expansive playground for kids."

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

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.

24
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, enclosed playground offers swings of all sizes and tall climbing towers for kids with lots of energy. A rubberized play area provides ample space for safe play, while a fenced-in section helps contain runners and younger children.

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."

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

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.

25
Brackridge Park image 1

Open space with partially shaded playground and covered picnic tables creates a relaxed atmosphere. Adults often gather here, while kids enjoy the playground and open fields. The park shows signs of wear but remains a small, clean spot for casual soccer and play.

Big open fields offer plenty of space for kids to run and play. A kids playground sits near the bathrooms, providing a dedicated spot for play.

Covered seating with picnic tables offers shelter during rain. Bathrooms and a playground are nearby, alongside open spaces like soccer fields.

People are saying

"You can play soccer at these parks."

"I enjoyed the partially shaded playground with unique spinning equipment."

"It's a nice place for the kids to play."

Good to know

1

Parking availability is limited, especially during busy times.

2

Brackridge Park has soccer fields, bathrooms, and covered seating with picnic tables.

3

The fields had spaces marked off-limits and had sprinklers turn on randomly during organized sporting events.

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