Tiny But Mighty, The Smallest State Park In Florida Is A Hidden Gem Worth Exploring
By Marisa Roman|Published September 01, 2022
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Marisa Roman
Author
A New Jersey native with over 15 years of writing experience, Marisa has studied at both New York University and Florida International University. She has lived all over the country, including a decade stint in South Florida. Marisa is well-versed in exploration as she travels a good majority of the year in her self-converted Sprinter van. Her articles have been featured in various notable publications over the years, she has a published collection of short stories, and three completed screenplays under her belt.
While we often tend to focus on the sprawling, massive state and national parks in Florida, we have another gem that is just as worthy to be featured but might be a bit smaller than most. Sitting atop a bluff along The Amelia River, the Fernandina Plaza Historic State Park is known as the smallest state park in Florida, but it really brings so much charm and history, that you won’t even notice the size.
Fernandina Plaza is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the northern part of Florida and just so happens to be home to the smallest state park.
Measuring around 0.8 acres, the Fernandina Plaza Historic State Park features a grassy area with a bluff that allows for beautiful views of the Amelia River.
The plaza itself dates back 2,000 years to what was discovered to be a Native American campsite. Eventually, it became a military post for Spanish Florida, actually the northernmost in the state.
Today, guests can visit this historic site which is now managed by Fort Clinch State Park for free! While the park may be small, it sure does allow for fun to be had.
Set up a picnic overlooking the bluff and enjoy the open, grassy area. Or walk the grounds and find several historic markers which explain the most significant events that took place in the park over the years.
What do you think about the smallest state park in Florida? Have you ever visited Fernandina Plaza Historic State Park? Share with us your experiences in the comments section! Or if you want to learn more about this historic spot including current hours of operation and fees to enter, check out the Fernandina Plaza Historic State Park website.