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Top picks in Jacksonville

Picnic spots

A park with a dedicated picnic area that feels like a planned destination rather than a desperate search for a dry patch of dirt.

Based on 764 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.

Multiple wheelchair-friendly trails and workout stations make the park accessible for all abilities. Large playgrounds with rock climbing and slides offer fun for various age groups, while shaded areas and fenced sections provide comfort and security.

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."

"The playground here is great for kids."

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
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.

Beautiful views of the water and downtown skyline make this park stand out. It offers a clean, family-friendly space with a playground, fishing dock, and kayak launch area.

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 beautiful, peaceful park with great views of the water."

"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.

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.

A recently revamped playground features two separate pirate ships for different age groups, making it great for kids. The park offers lots of shade, a clean handicap bathroom with changing stations, and a nice view of the water.

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 playgrounds here are nicely updated and great 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
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.

Beautiful waterfront views and a clean environment stand out here. The park offers long pier fishing spots and a great trail system for walking and biking.

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."

"The park's pier is perfect for fishing and enjoying the river."

"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.

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.

Trails offer biking and walking with plenty of shade and scenic features like bridges and a brick road. The park is dog-friendly, has restrooms and a drinking fountain, and feels like woods close to town.

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.

Spacious park with well lit fields for soccer, softball, baseball, and basketball. Features a small lake for kayaking, a clean playground with a tall slide and bridge, and clean public restrooms.

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
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 huge park with multiple parks inside offers a variety of activities like disc golf, baseball, and a skateboard park. It includes a kids play area and a dog park, making it great for families and pets.

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.

08
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.

Shaded pathways wind through a small, well-kept park featuring historic buildings and sites. Visitors enjoy great views of water, boats, and wildlife while walking or relaxing in a calm, clean setting.

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."

"You'll love the riverfront views from the historical sites' deck."

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

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.

09
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.

Waterfront location offers scenic views of the St. Johns River and plenty of green space. The park features clean, well-maintained paths ideal for walking, dog walking, and exercise in a peaceful, quiet atmosphere.

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."

"I loved the beautiful river and waterfront views here."

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

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.

10
A. Philip Randolph Heritage Park image 1

Park offers playgrounds, walking paths, and a covered stage for community events. It maintains a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere with shaded benches and open grassy areas. Historical markers honor civil rights heritage, adding cultural significance to the space.

Open, clean space with playground equipment geared for kids 5 and up, a walking track, and a pavilion with a stage. Murals and plaques honor a civil rights leader, adding a heritage element to the park.

Open grassy areas and picnic tables provide plenty of spots for meals outdoors. Walking paths and a playground add options for activity during picnics.

People are saying

"This park is great for family outings and community events."

"The historical sites here highlight African American history and contributions."

"It's a nice park, good for picnics with open grassy areas."

Good to know

1

Parking is available across the street and on the sides.

2

The park hosts community events and performances regularly.

3

The playground is suitable for children aged 5 and up.

11
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.

Wide open spaces and a well-designed playground make this park great for kids and families. It offers picnic tables, grills, wooded paths, and courts for tennis and pickleball, plus plenty of shaded areas to relax or walk.

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."

"I found quite a few tennis courts here."

"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.

12
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 large park with big playgrounds, climbing structures, and a pavilion with picnic tables. Plenty of space for running, birthday parties, and walking dogs. Trails and athletic fields add to the outdoor options.

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.

13
Stockton Park image 1

Park offers beautiful river views and quiet, peaceful atmosphere tucked away from busy areas. Plenty of seating with shade and picnic tables invite relaxation and family time. Thatched-roof structure provides a unique spot for outdoor ceremonies and photos.

Open areas with beautiful river views and picnic spots create a peaceful setting. Concrete structures and benches offer places to relax while fishing or walking dogs.

Beautiful picnic areas with water views create a nice setting. Paths and spots for watching squirrels add to the relaxed vibe for picnics with friends, family, or pets.

People are saying

"This park offers beautiful river views and is great for picnics."

"The river view here is so peaceful and beautiful."

"It's a beautiful spot for a picnic with lovely water views."

Good to know

1

There are no restrooms available at Stockton Park.

2

The railing at Stockton Park is unsafe and held together with zip ties.

3

Weekends at Stockton Park get too crowded.

14
Dames Point Park image 1

Small park offers unbeatable views of a massive bridge and river, creating a peaceful, secluded atmosphere. Visitors find it ideal for fishing, picnics, and quiet reflection near a solemn memorial. Easy access and ample shade under the bridge add to its calm, inviting vibe.

A small, quiet park offers unbeatable views of a large bridge and passing cargo ships. It features a fishing pier, covered picnic tables, bathrooms, and easy parking access near a major highway.

Covered picnic tables and a pavilion provide shelter for meals. Bathrooms and water fountains are nearby, and a fishing pier adds a nice touch to the picnic setting.

People are saying

"The parks here offer gorgeous views of the bridge and river."

"It's a beautiful, scenic spot for a picnic with a gorgeous bridge view."

"It's a quiet, scenic Meditation Spot with a breathtaking river view."

Good to know

1

The fishing pier's hours are from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

2

There are restrooms and picnic tables available at the park.

3

Parking is easy and accessible at the park.

15
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.

Clean and well maintained, the park offers paved trails and boardwalks for pleasant walks. Bathrooms stand out as the best among parks, and electrical outlets are available for charging devices.

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."

"I found the park to be a nice, quiet place for a pleasant walk."

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

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.

Well maintained with manicured lawns and oak trees, the park offers a clean, spacious area for walking, relaxing, and playing. It features giant soccer fields, paved walkways for biking and rollerblading, and is dog friendly with provided dog bags.

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."

"This park is great for walking your dogs and they even provide bags."

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
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.

Raised boardwalk and walking trails wind through the park, offering spots to reconnect with nature. Animals like goats, pigs, and alligators live inside, and a playground suits kids 4 and older.

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 great park to spend time in nature with all the animals."

"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.

18
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.

Well-marked and well-maintained trails invite quiet walks. A shaded playground with swings, slides, and climbing structures suits smaller kids and toddlers. Families enjoy the clean, family-friendly atmosphere with amenities like shelters, water, and restrooms.

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."

"I loved this park and its short, well-marked trails."

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.

19
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.

A large fenced-in dog park set back in the woods offers shaded running space for dogs. The park features a new playground with shade, picnic tables, restrooms, and well-kept trails suitable for walking and biking.

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 dog friendly park with a large fenced-in dog park."

"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.

20
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.

Playground features shade and safety surfaces like artificial turf and rubberized ground cover. It offers sensory play with swings, merry-go-rounds, musical bells, and drums. The park includes handicap swings and wheelchair ramps for accessibility.

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."

"This park has a great playground with lots of 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.

21
Treaty Oak image 1

Massive 200+ year old oak tree dominates the space, offering shade and history in a small, serene park. The atmosphere stays peaceful and quiet, making it a calm spot for relaxation or quiet activities. Limited seating and a wooden walkway surround the tree, creating a simple but charming setting.

A monumental oak tree with twisted branches stands at the heart of the park, offering abundant shade. Wide open yards surround the tree, creating a peaceful and beautiful space to walk around.

Flat platform under the oldest tree offers a perfect spot for sitting and planning a picnic. Bringing a picnic basket and blanket makes the visit enjoyable in this cute little park suited for small gatherings.

People are saying

"You've got to see the beautiful, massive oak tree in this park."

"I learned the tree is beautiful and rich with history."

"It's a beautiful place for a picnic."

Good to know

1

Parking at Treaty Oak is very limited and can be challenging to find.

2

There is a paid parking building located nearby for visitors.

3

The park features a beautiful, historic tree that is over 250 years old.

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.

Beautiful park with well kept, shady trails that are clearly marked for easy hiking. It offers a peaceful escape with great trails winding through natural surroundings.

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.

23
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.

Plenty of amenities include a pickleball court, lakes, and soccer fields. The playground is newly renovated, clean, and fun for kids of all ages. Baseball and softball fields are well maintained with turf infields. The park offers good spots for biking and walking in a clean, peaceful setting.

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."

"The playground here is so nice with all the new equipment."

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.

24
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.

Playgrounds feature giant playsets, a dedicated baby/toddler section, and are mostly shaded with picnic tables nearby. The park includes a large soccer field, clean restrooms, covered picnic areas, and a track for walking or jogging.

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 great and recently renovated."

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.

25
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.

Green, clean pastures and a peaceful open field with a water view create a scenic and relaxing atmosphere. Amenities include a clean playground and two dog parks, making it family-friendly and great for pets.

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 park with nice trees and open green spaces."

"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.

26
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, family-friendly park offers nature trails, a new enclosed playground, and a kayak launch along the river. Plenty of open space, sports fields, and a boardwalk provide activities for all ages.

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 playgrounds here are amazing for kids of all ages."

"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.

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