Lakeside Park
Discover unique sculptures and abundant wildlife at Lakeside Park, a St. Augustine gem with turtles and native plants.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy cooler temperatures and wildlife activity.
Lakeside Park
Best Time
Enjoy cooler temperatures and wildlife activity.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover unique sculptures and abundant wildlife at Lakeside Park, a St. Augustine gem with turtles and native plants.
"A lovely county park with original sculptures and a pond full of turtles."
🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friends! Bags and disposal cans are available for a clean visit. :dog:
🐢 Turtle Watching Spot
The observation deck on Anhinga Lake is prime real estate for turtle sightings. :turtle:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Original Sculptures
Unique, original art installations scattered throughout the park, adding a quirky charm.
Anhinga Lake Wildlife
Observe snapping and soft-shell turtles from the observation deck. A haven for native flora and fauna.
Native Plant Gardens
Explore beautifully landscaped areas featuring local plants and majestic live oaks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Sculptures & Wildlife Wonders
Navigating Parking & Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friends! Bags and disposal cans are available for a clean visit. :dog:
🐢 Turtle Watching Spot
The observation deck on Anhinga Lake is prime real estate for turtle sightings. :turtle:
🚗 Parking Strategy
Parking can be limited; consider the police station lot if needed. :car:
🐦 Bird Encounters
Beautiful birds abound, but keep a respectful distance! :bird:
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friends! Bags and disposal cans are available for a clean visit. :dog:
🐢 Turtle Watching Spot
The observation deck on Anhinga Lake is prime real estate for turtle sightings. :turtle:
🚗 Parking Strategy
Parking can be limited; consider the police station lot if needed. :car:
🐦 Bird Encounters
Beautiful birds abound, but keep a respectful distance! :bird:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lakeside Park is a unique county park in St. Augustine, praised for its original sculptures and abundant wildlife, especially turtles at Anhinga Lake. It's a dog-friendly haven with native plants, though parking can be challenging and opinions on the art are divided.
"Such a lovely County park in St. Augustine within walking distance of the KOA! Beautifully landscaped and the sculptures are original and very cool. Lots of native plants and live oaks, with a pond full of snapping and soft shell turtles. The observation deck overlooking Anhinga Lake is a good spot to see the turtles, and there’s plenty of open spaces for dogs —including bags/disposal cans for dog poop.❤️"
Valerie Maud
"Being a Veteran myself I really appreciate places like this. Nestled right near the water and right by the Saint Augustine beach police department it's a really safe area to enjoy and learn. You can watch this full video on my YouTube channel named Ancient Carbon Maps give."
Dwane Austin
"Not really the nicest park I’ve ever visited. Seems like a place where unwanted hideous sculptures were laid to rest.
Inappropriate for children."
Roads Traveled Photography
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lakeside Park is located in St. Augustine. While specific public transport options might be limited, it's noted as being within walking distance of the KOA campground. If driving, be aware that parking can be scarce, and some visitors suggest using the Saint Augustine beach police station parking lot as an alternative.
The park is situated near the Saint Augustine beach police department, making it relatively easy to locate once you're in the vicinity.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Information regarding entrance fees is not explicitly mentioned in the provided reviews, suggesting it may be a free-to-enter county park. It's always a good idea to check local listings or the park's official website if available.
Specific opening and closing hours for Lakeside Park are not detailed in the reviews. However, as a county park, it's likely open during daylight hours.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park features 'original and very cool' sculptures, described by some as unique art installations. While one reviewer found them 'hideous,' others appreciate their originality and contribution to the park's character.
Absolutely! Anhinga Lake is a highlight, with an observation deck perfect for spotting snapping and soft-shell turtles. The park also boasts native plants and live oaks, attracting various bird species.
Opinions vary. While some find it a nice place to enjoy and learn, one reviewer stated it's 'inappropriate for children.' This might depend on the child's age and parental discretion regarding the sculptures and wildlife.
Yes, Lakeside Park is dog-friendly! There are plenty of open spaces for dogs, and the park provides bags and disposal cans for waste.
The park is described as a 'lovely County park' with beautiful landscaping and a peaceful atmosphere, offering a safe area to enjoy nature and art.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique sculptures, the diverse wildlife around Anhinga Lake (especially turtles!), and the beauty of the native plants and live oaks. The observation deck offers great vantage points for wildlife photography.
Yes, with its native plants, live oaks, and abundant bird and turtle life, Lakeside Park offers excellent opportunities for nature photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a good idea to prepare kids for the sculptures beforehand, framing them as unique art pieces. The presence of native plants and birds also offers educational opportunities. Remember to bring water and snacks, and be mindful of the parking situation when planning your visit.
🐶 Dog Owners
This thoughtful provision ensures a pleasant experience for both you and your pet, as well as for other park visitors. It’s a great spot for a walk or a relaxing afternoon with your furry friend, surrounded by nature and unique art.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistic Charm of Lakeside Park
For those who enjoy outdoor art installations, Lakeside Park provides a different kind of aesthetic appeal compared to traditional parks. The variety of sculptures means there's always something new to discover around the next bend. It’s worth noting that the artistic interpretation can be subjective, so go with an open mind to appreciate the creativity on display.
Wildlife Encounters at Anhinga Lake
Beyond the turtles, the park is a haven for native plants and live oaks, contributing to a rich ecosystem. This natural beauty provides a serene backdrop for a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment of observation. Remember to observe wildlife from a distance and avoid feeding them to maintain their natural behaviors.
Social
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