Huguenot Memorial Park - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

Site of a former estate that was named for an early owner, Zephaniah Kingsley, who spent 25 years there. The plantation was originally 1,000 acres (4.0 km2), most of which has been taken over by forest; the structures and grounds of the park now comprise approximately 60 acres (242,811.385 m2). The most prominent features of Kingsley Plantation are the owner's house—a structure of architectural significance built probably between 1797 and 1798 that is cited as being the oldest surviving plantati

Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is an outdoor recreation area like no other. Spanning over 500 acres, visitors can explore miles of hiking trails, immaculate beaches, freshwater lakes and marshes, and lush natural areas. Whether you are looking for a place to relax or an area to explore outdoor activities like canoeing and kayaking, this park is ideal. Boasting nearby swimming pools and plenty of designated picnic spots perfect for a family outing, few places rival the sense of adventure.

Little Talbot Island State Park is a natural wonderland with something for everyone! With miles of white sand beaches, nature trails, and observatories, visitors can explore and discover the local flora and fauna. The park has several picnic areas as well as campsites perfect for a weekend trip. The St. John's River provides unique opportunities to kayak, canoe or paddle board the salt marsh waterways. People come from all over to photograph the abundance of wildlife that inhabit the park.

The Timucuan Ecological and Historical Preserve offers many incredible experiences for visitors. Guests can explore the untouched estuaries of Big Talbot Island and Little Talbot Island, discovering native wildlife and over 6,000 years of history from the region's first inhabitants. At Fort Caroline National Memorial, visitors have the chance to learn more about French cultural influence in colonial America. The preserve also features an array of trails suitable for hiking and biking.

The Ribault Monument is a tribute to French explorer Jean Ribault. Built in 1927 and designed by Jules Robert Roemers, it is a memorial to the 1562 French settlers that Ribault had brought to Florida 400 years ago. The Monument measures 24 feet tall and is composed of limestone blocks with a bronze tablet at its base inscribed with the explorer's name and the dates of his explorations. It was placed on the National Register Historic Places in 2012.

The Theodore Roosevelt Area is an area rich in history and culture. It was once the home of many native tribes such as the Timucua and Mocama that have since vanished. Visitors to the area can explore the forests and wetlands, guided by an interpretive habitat trail highlighting the unique habitats and their inhabitants. In addition to these natural features, visitors will also find historical markers commemorating important sites including Fort Caroline and Kingsley plantation.