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Discover Anastasia State Park
Ever dreamed of exploring one of Florida’s natural treasures? Tucked away near St. Augustine, Anastasia State Park offers a perfect blend of stunning beaches, rich history, and outdoor adventure. This hidden gem invites you to unwind on its pristine sands, explore ancient sand dunes, and delve into the past at the historic Spanish coquina quarries, where the stones for the Castillo de San Marcos fort were sourced.
Located on Anastasia Island, this park boasts four miles of unspoiled coastline, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. The tidal marshes, teeming with birdlife, are a haven for bird watchers, while the lush maritime hammocks provide a picturesque setting for hiking and picnicking. Whether you want to relax or explore, there’s something for everyone.
Top 3 Facts about Anastasia State Park
01
Park Size
Anastasia State Park covers approximately 1,600 acres of pristine coastal landscape, making it one of Florida’s largest and most diverse state parks.
02
Stretch of Beach
The park boasts over four miles of beautiful sandy beaches along the Atlantic Ocean, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
03
Bird Species
Birdwatchers flock to Anastasia State Park to observe its diverse avian population, which includes approximately 365 different species throughout the year, making it a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts.
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Camping and transportation in Anastasia State Park
Backcountry camping permits required for wilderness camping opportunities.
How to Get to Anastasia State Park
Getting to Anastasia State Park in Florida is relatively easy. Here’s how:
- By Car: The most common way to reach Anastasia State Park is by car. The park is located on Anastasia Island in St. Augustine, Florida. If you’re coming from the north or south, you’ll likely use Interstate 95. From there, take Exit 311 for FL-207 toward St. Augustine Beach. Follow FL-207 until you reach Anastasia Park Road, where you’ll see signs directing you to the park entrance.
- By Public Transportation: While there isn’t direct public transportation to Anastasia State Park, you can use local bus services or ride-sharing options to get as close as possible, then arrange for a taxi or ride-sharing service to take you the rest of the way.
- By Boat: For those with access to a boat, Anastasia State Park has a boat ramp for launching watercraft. You can reach the park by navigating the Intracoastal Waterway and entering Salt Run, the inlet adjacent to the park.
Places to Stay Near Anastasia State Park
There are several options for accommodations near Anastasia State Park in Florida, ranging from campsites within the park to hotels and vacation rentals nearby. Here are a few suggestions:
- Anastasia State Park Campground: If you’re looking for a more immersive experience in nature, consider staying at the campground within Anastasia State Park itself. The park offers 139 campsites for tents and RVs, many of which are located just steps away from the beach.
- St. Augustine Beach Hotels: There are numerous hotels and motels located in the St. Augustine Beach area, which is adjacent to Anastasia State Park. These accommodations offer convenient access to the park’s beaches and recreational activities while providing comfortable lodging options.
- Vacation Rentals: For those seeking more space and privacy, vacation rentals are available near Anastasia State Park. Websites like Lake.com offer a variety of rental properties, including beachfront condos, cottages, and homes, where you can enjoy a home-away-from-home experience during your visit.
Driving
You can’t drive within Anastasia State Park except for designated areas like the parking lots and the main roads leading to different park sections.
Public
There is no public transportation system within Anastasia State Park itself. The park primarily relies on private vehicles for transportation and biking and walking for those exploring the park’s trails and amenities.
Parking
Anastasia State Park offers parking facilities for visitors. The park has designated parking areas, including near the campground, picnic areas, and beach access points.
Best Time to Go to Anastasia State Park
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.
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.
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.
Fall
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.
Must-See Attractions
Helpful Tips: Making the Most of Your Adventure to Anastasia State Park
Plan Ahead
Before your visit, familiarize yourself with the park’s amenities, activities, and regulations. Check the park’s website or contact park staff for information on hours of operation, entrance fees, and any updates or closures.
Pack Essentials
Bring along essentials such as sunscreen, insect repellent, water, snacks, and appropriate clothing for the weather and activities you plan to enjoy. Don’t forget your camera or binoculars for capturing memories and spotting wildlife.
Respect Wildlife
Observe wildlife from a safe distance and avoid feeding or approaching animals. Keep pets on leashes and be mindful of nesting birds and other sensitive habitats.
Stay Hydrated
Florida’s climate can be hot and humid, especially during summer. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout your visit, and take breaks in shaded areas to rest and cool off.
Frequently Asked Questions about Anastasia State Park
Anastasia State Park includes 1,600 acres of rich ecosystems and abundant wildlife, such as dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, fish, crabs, and marsh birds.
There is an entrance fee: $8 per vehicle with up to 8 people, $4 per vehicle with one occupant, and $2 for pedestrians and bicyclists.
Anastasia State Park offers camping near the beach, with 139 campsites available for RV or tent camping, all equipped with electricity and water.
Visitors can enjoy hiking, swimming, bird watching, and renting bicycles, paddleboards, kayaks, sailboats, and canoes. There is also an Island Grill for snacks and a gift shop.
Yes, fishing is permitted in designated areas of Anastasia State Park, including along the fishing pier and in Salt Run. Anglers can catch a variety of saltwater species, including flounder, redfish, and trout. Florida fishing regulations apply, so be sure to obtain the necessary fishing license and adhere to size and bag limits.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own kayaks, paddleboards, and other non-motorized watercraft to Anastasia State Park. There are launch points available along Salt Run for paddlers to access the water.