I love state parks. I especially love Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, which is located right outside St. Augustine, Florida. This particular park is so unique, as it boasts a stunning formal garden and gorgeous views of the Matanzas River. Oh, and did I mention that there’s a beachside section that features incredible coquina rock formations that sit next to the dazzling Atlantic Ocean? Seriously, this place is amazing!
No words can really do this park justice, so I’ll let my photos do most of the talking in this blog post.
What to Know Before You go:
+ While this park is beautiful year-round, it’s particularly pretty during the spring months when all types of flowers are in bloom.
+ The formal garden is across the street from the beach.
+ There are clean facilities, such as restrooms on the garden side of the park.
+ It’s a state park, so you’ll need to pay to enter. Plan on paying $5 cash.
+ If you are going to walk some of the trails in the warmer months, it won’t hurt to bring some bug spray with you. It’s Florida, after all.
+ When exploring the part of the park along the Matanzas River, keep your eyes open for dolphins and manatees. During my last visit there, I saw both!
Get in Touch
Have questions about visiting Washington Oaks Gardens State Park or want recommendations of additional places to visit in the St. Augustine area? Comment below or email me at emilykeenphotography@gmail.com. You can also check out my other articles about St. Augustine like this jam-packed itinerary.
Emily Keen Photography 