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Ravine Gardens State Park
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Palatka, 32712
(386) 329-3721
Directions
Ravine Gardens is located within the city limits of Palatka, near the St. Johns River, a few blocks south of downtown and U.S. Highway 17. Access to the park is from Twigg Street, east from Moseley Avenue, south from S. R. 20 and U. S. 17. Ravine State Gardens is less than an hour drive from Gainesville, Jacksonville and St. Augustine.
Room and Area Rentals
The Roy E. Campbell Civic Center is available for weddings, family reunions, conferences, training and other activities. Meeting Rooms contain tables and chairs ideal for training and conferences. Overhead projectors, screens, podiums and microphones are available upon request.
Hours of Operation
Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.
Florida has been shaped geographically and culturally by water and Ravine State Gardens is representative of the never-ending shaping that occurs.
A steep ravine was created by water flowing from beneath the sandy ridges that flank the west shore of the St. Johns River. As time passed, the slopes of the ravine were colonized by grasses, shrubs and trees.
Ravine Gardens State Park has long been famous for its extensive plantings of azaleas and other ornamental plants. Recreational uses are generally passive, related to the aesthetic enjoyment of the gardens. Park programs emphasize interpretation of the park's natural and cultural attributes.Park Activities
Bird Watching
Ravine Gardens is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail. Many species of birds appear, especially during spring and fall migration. Hike the trails or drive the loop road watching for migratory songbirds, resident woodpeckers, owls and hawks. Ruby-throated hummingbirds frequent the formal gardens in spring and summer.
Hiking and Fitness
Walk the extensive trails that lead around the ravines and along the spring-fed stream.
An accessible Parcourse fitness center features exercise stations designed to condition your entire body through stretching and cardiovascular conditioning. The 1.8 mile paved loop road is ideal for joggers and walkers of all ages.Picnicking
There are numerous sites along the 1.8 mile paved ravine perimeter road to picnic. Picnic tables and grills are available at no additional charge. Stairways and trail access into the ravines are located near each picnic area.
Ranger-led Wagon Tours
Enjoy the beauty of the park, while a Park Ranger interprets the history and highlights of the gardens. The tour last approximately 30 minutes. There is a Group-rate fee of $40.00. Two weeks notification is preferred.
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