Parks and Preserves
Palm Coast is surrounded by protected parks and nature reserves, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Princess Place Preserve – This 1,500-acre preserve is a local favorite, featuring historic ruins, nature trails, and stunning marsh views. It’s a great spot for hiking, photography, and even horseback riding.
• Washington Oaks Gardens State Park – Home to beautiful formal gardens, ancient oak trees, and the unique coquina rock shoreline, this park is a must-visit. It also features picnic areas, making it a great stop for lunch before heading to the beach.
• Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area – Located along the coast, this park offers beach access, kayaking, and birdwatching. You might even spot a gopher tortoise along the trails!
• Bulow Creek State Park – Home to one of the largest remaining live oak forests in Florida, this park is perfect for hiking, paddling, and history lovers, as it features ruins of a 19th-century sugar plantation.