Consider This Hanna Park Beach In Florida A Hidden Gem

Even if you’ve lived in Florida all of your life, there likely are many hidden pockets of nature that you have yet to explore. After all, with so many options to get out into the great outdoors, it might seem like the opportunities are endless. Over on the oceanside, however, there is a beautiful place in Jacksonville known as Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park, which is quite rare for the area. But what many guests fall in love with at this park is the fact that you can enjoy a 2.7-mile loop hike through the coastal hammocks, before taking a dip at the little-known beach.

Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park in Jacksonville is 447-acres of true natural beauty off the coast of the Atlantic.

Part of what makes this park so rare is the fact that it is filled with wildlife - acres upon acres of the mature coastal hammock, which is very rare along the heavily developed Atlantic coast.

The park was named after famed Florida scholar Kathryn Abbey Hanna, who served on the board of Parks and Historical Places as a member and chairperson from 1953 to 1963. Kathryn Abbey Hanna was a huge advocate for the protection of Florida’s natural spaces, especially within the state park system.

One of the best ways to really get a feel for the park is through hiking the trails, one of which is the four-mile Hanna Park South Trail.

This trail, which has been rated as good for all skill levels, will take guests on an adventure through the wooded areas, past small streams and bogs, and under the shade of a maritime hammock.

Just make sure while you’re hiking you observe the difference between the designated hiking and biking trails. Hiking trails will have a stenciled letter “H” on some trees, or simply a hiking signpost.

Then after you’re finished hiking the trails, and you’ve worked up a good sweat, head on over to the little-known beach and dip those toes in the Atlantic!

The 1.5-mile beach is not only perfect for swimming, walking, and enjoying some sunshine, but it also has become a premier place to catch some surf, too.

Anyone who doesn’t want the adventure to end there can also check out the camping options within the park. There are primitive sites available for tent campers and cabin rentals as well.

Check out this hidden gem beach after a hike through nature within the Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park in Florida.

You can use this map to find out where Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is in Florida.

Have you ever visited Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park in Florida before? Did you know about the trail leading to the Hanna Park beach? Or maybe you’ve spent a night or a weekend camping there? Share with us your experience in the comments section! We would love to hear from you!

If you’re looking for more information about Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park, including current conditions, fees, planning your stay, or all the available trails and activities, then check out the City of Jacksonville park website.

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Hiking in Florida

Katie Feldkamp | December 12, 2022

Where are some of the best hiking trails in Florida?

Sure, Florida is known for its crashing waves and sandy shores. But if you’re looking for more than being ocean side, consider taking a hike. There are countless trails to explore, and here are a few of the best hiking areas known for their trails in Florida to get you started:

Ocala National Forest
Withlacoochee State Forest
Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park
Big Shoals State Park
Little Manatee River State Park
Big Cypress National Preserve
Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park
Big Spring State Park

Additional information on these areas and more can be found in this article on some of the best hikes in Florida.

Where can I find hiking trails in Florida that are under 3 miles?

There is no need to commit an entire day to the trail! The Sunshine State has hikes and trails to suit any interest, and here are some of the best when it comes to a quick hike in Florida:

Ancient Dunes Trail at Anastasia State Park in St. Augustine
The Florida Drain in Bronson State Forest in Williston
Cypress Lakes Preserve at Ridge Manor in Brooksville
Butler Mill Trail at Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park in Tallahassee
Churchhouse Hammock Trail at the Crystal River Preserve State Park in Crystal River
Falling Waters Sinkhole Trail at Falling Waters State Park in Chipley

Check out this article on hikes under 3 miles in Florida for more information on these trails and several more you may be interested in exploring. Happy trails to you!

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Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park, 500 Wonderwood Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32233, USA

The Little-Known Beach In Florida You Can Visit After Hiking This 4-Mile Trail

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