Julington-Durbin Preserve
A natural oasis with miles of trails through wetlands and lush woods, perfect for hiking, biking, and escaping the city.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer bugs, cooler temps
Julington-Durbin Preserve
Best Time
Fewer bugs, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A natural oasis with miles of trails through wetlands and lush woods, perfect for hiking, biking, and escaping the city.
"Excellent place for a good walk or run or ride away from it all. "
🥾 Watch for Wet Spots
Trails can be squishy near creeks, especially after rain. Stick to sandy uplands for drier walks.
☀️ Beat the Summer Heat
Visit early morning or late afternoon in summer to avoid intense heat and bugs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Julington Creek
Various access points
Glide down the serene waters, spotting turtles and enjoying mossy oaks. A peaceful escape.
Miles of Nature Trails
Throughout the preserve
Explore diverse wildlife and lush woods on wide, well-marked paths perfect for hiking, biking, and running.
Floodplain Wetlands
Throughout the preserve
Discover extensive wetlands that protect water quality for the creeks and St. Johns River.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Bugs
Trail Conditions & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Watch for Wet Spots
Trails can be squishy near creeks, especially after rain. Stick to sandy uplands for drier walks.
☀️ Beat the Summer Heat
Visit early morning or late afternoon in summer to avoid intense heat and bugs.
🐕 Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome! Great for dog lovers and their furry companions.
🚴♀️ Bike & Horseback Riding
Enjoy dedicated trails for cycling and horseback riding.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Watch for Wet Spots
Trails can be squishy near creeks, especially after rain. Stick to sandy uplands for drier walks.
☀️ Beat the Summer Heat
Visit early morning or late afternoon in summer to avoid intense heat and bugs.
🐕 Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome! Great for dog lovers and their furry companions.
🚴♀️ Bike & Horseback Riding
Enjoy dedicated trails for cycling and horseback riding.
📸 Great for Photography
Capture stunning nature shots, from wildlife to scenic landscapes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Julington-Durbin Preserve for its extensive, well-maintained trails, ample parking, and natural beauty, making it a great escape for hiking, biking, and dog walking. Some note limited water access and lack of shade due to pine trees, but overall it's considered a peaceful, enjoyable natural area.
"Excellent place for a good walk or run or ride away from it all. Spacious well marked trails. Great for dog lovers and mountain bikers and runners. Beautiful Florida style jungle/woods. Ample free parking."
Patrick Shirley
"Great trail system for a family hike. We went in December and hiked the 4 mile loop. Plenty of parking and restrooms. The trail is pretty wide but lots to see and many benches scattered along the trail. It is well used by folks with horses and dogs so watch for squishy spots. Overall great place for a cool weather hike."
Jarrod Reed
"Nice and well maintained trails suitable for hiking and jogging. I've only been here during the winter months when bugs aren't an issue, so I can't speak to the summertime conditions. It's definitely a good, peaceful place to get away from civilization for a bit."
Pieter
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The preserve is located in Jacksonville, Florida, accessible via major roads. It's situated near a housing development and Interstate 95, making it surprisingly easy to reach despite its natural feel.
Yes, there is ample and spacious free parking available at the preserve.
Yes, using GPS with 'Julington-Durbin Preserve' should guide you directly to the entrance.
Absolutely! It's a convenient natural oasis within the urban areas of Jacksonville.
Yes, there are restrooms available, which are noted as pretty nice by visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Julington-Durbin Preserve is free. It's a public land offering a great natural escape without any admission fees.
While specific hours aren't always listed, nature preserves are typically open from dawn to dusk. It's best to plan your visit during daylight hours.
No, there is no entrance fee. The preserve is free to access for all visitors.
No booking is required as it's a public park. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
While not always advertised, keep an eye on local park and nature organization websites for potential events.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy hiking, trail running, cycling, horseback riding, picnicking, and exploring the diverse wetlands and woods.
Yes, the trails are wide, well-marked, and generally flat, making them suitable for hiking and jogging.
Yes, Julington Creek is accessible for kayaking and canoeing, offering a peaceful way to explore the water.
With its diverse wetlands and wooded areas, the preserve is likely a good spot for birdwatching, though specific sightings aren't frequently mentioned.
Visitors often spot turtles, and the preserve's wetlands and woods support diverse wildlife.
📸 📸 Photography
The mossy oaks along Julington Creek, the lush wooded trails, and the expansive wetlands offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Yes, drone footage has been captured here, showcasing the preserve's natural beauty from above.
The natural scenery makes it a popular spot for portrait photography, especially with the scenic backdrops.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and potentially fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the preserve's atmosphere.
General photography is allowed. If using a drone, ensure you are aware of and comply with any local regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring bug spray, especially during warmer months, and go early or late to avoid the peak heat. 🏃♀️ Runners & Cyclists
The preserve's network allows for varied routes, and the natural scenery offers a refreshing change from urban routes. Be mindful of potential wet spots near the creeks and the presence of horses and dogs on the trails. 🐶 Dog Owners
The wide paths ensure comfortable walks, and the natural environment provides plenty of scents and sights for your dog to explore. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
The trails are generally flat and well-marked, with some loops offering up to 4 miles of exploration. Many reviewers highlight the spaciousness of the trails, noting that several people can walk side-by-side.
For those seeking water access, there are specific points where you can reach the water's edge, though some visitors feel the water views could be more expansive.
Water Activities on Julington Creek
Historically, Julington Creek was a significant route for steamboats in the 1800s, used by travelers escaping northern winters, with citrus groves lining its shores.
While direct water access from the trails might be limited in some areas, the creek itself is a key feature of the preserve, contributing to its ecological importance as part of the headwaters for Pottsburg Creek and the St. Johns River.
+1Ecological Significance
+1 These protected lands act as a natural buffer against overdevelopment, preserving a vital green space within the urban landscape of Jacksonville. The preserve's wetlands are not just ecologically important; they are a habitat for diverse wildlife.
Efforts to save these lands, like those led by SJRWMD and NEFL Sierra Club, highlight their value and the community's commitment to conservation. The preserve's existence is a testament to the importance of preserving natural areas for future generations. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit