Anastasia State Park

Anastasia State Park
29.875853° N, -81.280891° W
Anastasia State Park

The visitor center hours at Anastasia State Park are not specified, but the park itself is open from 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year.

Accessibility & permits

Wheelchair Ramps Accessible Restrooms Accessible Picnic Areas Accessible Parking Rest Benches Stabilized Trails Accessible Fountains

Emergency

Call 904-461-2033 for park ranger emergency contact.
  • Cell service availability:Partial

Nestled on Anastasia Island near historic St. Augustine, Anastasia State Park offers four miles of sun-kissed Atlantic shoreline, tidal marshes rich in birdlife, and ancient coquina quarries that helped build Castillo de San Marcos. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, wildlife watching, or hiking through maritime hammocks. Whether you’re paddling the Salt Run, combing the beach for shells, or relaxing at your campsite under the palms, this 1,600-acre park is a quintessential Florida escape that blends nature, history, and serenity.

Area (mi²)
2.5
Annual visitors
1 092 136
Established year
1949

Top 3 Facts about Anastasia State Park

01

This park is home to the Old Spanish Coquina Quarries, an archaeological site where coquina stone for the Castillo de San Marcos was mined, and it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The quarries are a significant historical landmark along the 4 miles of Atlantic coastline.

02

Offers over four miles of sandy Atlantic coastline for swimming, sunbathing, and shelling.

03

Attracts around 365 species of birds annually, making it a world-class birdwatching destination.

Family programs

  • Junior Ranger
  • Ranger-led Tours
  • Workshops & Hands-on Activities
  • Family Camping & Overnight
  • Scavenger Hunts
  • Arts & Crafts
  • Water-based Adventures

Travel Tips

Plan Ahead

Familiarize yourself with entrance fees, hours, and seasonal closures. Make campsite reservations early, especially for weekends and holidays.

Pack Appropriately

Bring sunscreen, bug spray, beachwear, and water shoes. Binoculars are great for birdwatching; pack for hot, humid conditions.

Respect Wildlife

Keep pets leashed, avoid sensitive dune areas, and do not disturb nesting birds or other wildlife.

Stay Informed

Visit the Florida State Parks website for weather alerts, closures, and information on seasonal bird migrations.

Seasons

Spring

During this season, the weather is pleasantly warm, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, birdwatching, and beachcombing. The springtime also brings an array of colorful wildflowers into bloom, adding to the park’s natural beauty. Wildlife sightings are common during this time, with migratory birds passing through the area and sea turtles beginning to nest along the shores. Additionally, spring is outside of the peak tourist season, so visitors can enjoy fewer crowds and a more serene atmosphere.

Summer

Summer at Anastasia State Park offers long, sunny days perfect for beach outings and water activities. The warm temperatures make swimming and sunbathing popular pastimes along the park’s expansive shoreline. Despite the heat, the park’s coastal location often brings refreshing sea breezes, providing relief from the summer sun. While the park may experience increased visitation during the summer months, there are still plenty of opportunities to explore the natural wonders and enjoy outdoor adventures in the park’s diverse ecosystems.

Autumn

As the summer crowds dissipate, visitors can experience the park’s tranquil beauty amid cooler temperatures and milder weather. Fall foliage begins to emerge, adding vibrant hues to the landscape, and wildlife activity remains abundant. Birdwatchers can catch glimpses of both resident and migratory species, while nature enthusiasts can enjoy hiking trails and picnicking amidst the changing scenery. With fewer tourists, fall offers a peaceful and serene environment to reconnect with nature and appreciate the park’s natural splendor.

Winter

Winter in Anastasia State Park brings cooler temperatures and occasional chilly winds, but it remains a delightful time to visit. The park offers a peaceful retreat during the quieter winter months, allowing visitors to enjoy uncrowded beaches and serene nature walks. Winter is also an excellent time for birdwatching, as many migratory bird species flock to the area, providing ample opportunities for sightings. While swimming may be less popular during this season, visitors can still engage in various outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation, amidst the park’s scenic beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Anastasia State Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • The closest city to Anastasia State Park is St. Augustine, Florida. This historic city, founded in 1565, is located near the park’s address at 300 Anastasia Park Road.

  • The Ancient Dunes Nature Trail is the best hiking trail for kids, as it is an easy 0.7-mile loop that goes through a shaded maritime hammock, features ancient dunes, and offers opportunities to see wildlife and climb trees. This trail is short and engaging, making it perfect for young families. Leashed pets are also welcome on this trail.

  • You can bring your dog to the campground and trails, but it must be on a leash no longer than six feet and well-behaved at all times. Dogs are not allowed on the beaches, in buildings, or on boardwalks.

  • There is no separate fee for motorcycle parking; the fee is $4, which is the same as for single-occupant vehicles.

  • You can enjoy various activities such as sailing, paddling, surfing, biking, fishing, and hiking. Explore the 4 miles of pristine beach, or take a walk or bike ride through the wooded areas on trails like the Ancient Dunes Nature Trail and the Marsh Trail. Additionally, you can observe wildlife, camp at one of the 139 campsites, or engage in water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.