Washington Oaks Gardens State Park: 7 Tips for Visitors

You and your family will love the recreation and sightseeing available at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park. With so much to see and do, you will probably want to spend more than one day visiting this beautiful attraction. Adults, children, and seniors will find something to love at the park and will enjoy experiencing it together.

Take Time for the Formal Gardens

The carefully cultivated formal gardens are highlights of the park. Stroll through the gardens to see displays of plants that are native to the area and some that were brought in from all over the world. The gardens feature flowers like roses, azaleas, and birds of paradise. The reflection pond offers a wonderful centerpiece in contrast to the flowers.

Bring Binoculars for Bird Watching

This park is an incredible place for bird watching. There are birds who stay in residents all year round, and there are migrating species during various seasons.

See the nesting warblers in the spring and watch the babies fly when they hatch. The summer is the time for raptor viewing, and you’ll find songbirds in the fall on their way south. In the winter, come to view the shorebirds.

Remember Bikes 

BIking trails are available at the park, so you will want to bring yours along for a ride with friends or family. Helmets are required for children and encouraged for everyone.

Take a Hike

The 1.7 miles of trails at the park offer a great day of hiking for everyone. Some of the trails include the old AIA hike and bike trail and the Jungle Road trail. There is also a half-mile loop that takes visitors through the marshes and along the water.

Don’t Forget Your Fishing Pole

Bring your supplies to fish off the seawall. People routinely catch trout, bluefish, drum, flounder, and redfish. Check with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission to determine if you will need a fishing license during your visit. Laws about the number and size of fish you can catch do apply and vary by season.

Have a Picnic

There are many places on the grounds to sit down and have a relaxing picnic, so be sure to bring a basket of food. Choose a spot near the playground and keep an eye on your kids, or settle down near a beautiful floral display.

Plan a Spectacular Wedding

If you are planning a wedding, this is a stunning location. Talk to one of the park staff about getting married using the beautiful landscape as a backdrop.

Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is a great destination for viewing wildlife, taking a scenic walk, spending some time fishing, or riding a bike. It’s an excellent destination for families and provides a lovely setting for pictures as well. Before you visit the park, stop at Palm Coast Ford, where you can find just the right vehicle to carry all of the recreational equipment you need to have a great time with your group.

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