Exploring Washington Oaks Gardens State Park

One of our best hikes with planned garden landscapes...a must see!
Although the formal gardens are the centerpiece of this park, Washington Oaks is also famous for the unique shoreline of coquina rock formations that line its Atlantic beach. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Matanzaus River, this property was once owned by a distant relative of President George Washington. The gardens were established by Louise and Owen Young who purchased the land in 1936 and built a winter retirement home. They named it Washington Oaks and, in 1965, donated most of the property to the State. The gardens make remarkable use of native and exotic species, from azaleas and camellias to the exquisite bird of paradise, sheltered within a picturesque oak hammock. Visitors can picnic and fish from either the beach or the seawall along the Matanzas River. A number of short trails provide opportunities for hiking and bicycling. Visitors can learn about the park's natural and cultural resources in the visitor center.

We will start the day by hiking along the 3 mile trail system exploring the gardens and adjoining park grounds located on the west side of the park. After that, we will cross over to the east side of the park and check out the beach and tide pools.

For more information about Washington Oaks State Park, visit https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/washington-oaks-gardens-state-park and http://www.washingtonoaks.org/.

The park charges an entrance fee of $5 per vehicle, 2-8 people per vehicle. $4 if the vehicle has a single occupant.

To view a map of the park, visit https://ca.dep.state.fl.us/mapdirect/?focus=parksmain&querytype=park&queryvalues=Washington-Oaks

PLEASE READ:

1. Park at the visitors center parking lot on the left, after you enter the Park.

2. Get directions here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/N49VYNd25Ndeanv4A

3. If anyone is interested in carpooling, please leave a message below to begin a conversation. Please share the cost of gas.

4. Bring bug spray, water, and possibly a snack. Bring a hat for the beach and water shoes in case you want to explore the tide pools

If there is interest, we can go to lunch as a group afterward.