Laura Young
reporter3.riverbendnews@gmail.com
In celebration of the Great American Outdoors Act, the National Park system is offering free admission to its sites across the country on Friday, Aug. 4. Here in North Florida, you can explore ancient forts, learn about the Timucuan people and stroll along stunning stretches of natural beach. Nearby destinations include the following:
Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine was built by the Spanish to defend Florida and the Atlantic trade route. This National Monument preserves the oldest masonry fortification in the continental United States and interprets more than 450 years of cultural intersections.
Fort Matanzas, also in St. Augustine, is a National Monument that preserves the fortified coquina watchtower, completed in 1742, which defended the southern approach to the Spanish military settlement of St. Augustine. It also protects approximately 300 acres of Florida coastal environment containing dunes, marsh, maritime forest and associated flora and fauna, including threatened and endangered species.
The Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve in Jacksonville is one of the last unspoiled coastal wetlands on the Atlantic Coast. Visitors can discover 6,000 years of human history and experience the beauty of salt marshes, coastal dunes and hardwood hammocks. The Timucuan Preserve includes Fort Caroline and Kingsley Plantation.
Fort Caroline, located within the Timucuan Preserve in Jacksonville, was settled by French people struggling for survival in a new world. Many sought religious freedom, while others were soldiers or tradesmen. Battles fought here between the French and Spanish marked the first time that European nations fought for control of lands in what is now the United States.
Gulf Islands National Seashore in Gulf Breeze draws millions of visitors to its emerald coast waters, magnificent white beaches, fertile marshes and historical landscapes. Available activities include a ferry cruise, ranger programs, camping, boating, birdwatching, fishing, hiking, snorkeling, diving, swimming, biking and visiting historic sites.
The Great American Outdoors Act, passed in 2020, provides funding to improve infrastructure and expand recreation opportunities in national parks and other public lands. The legislation established the National Parks and Public Lands Legacy Restoration Fund and guaranteed permanent funding for the existing Land and Water Conservation Fund.
For more information to plan a trip to a national park, whether here in North Florida or farther afield, visit www.nps.gov.