Explore Big Talbot Island State Park

Looking for something to do in the Jacksonville area? Fans of nature and wildlife will love spending time at Big Talbot Island State Park. Part of the Florida park system, this area is primarily a nature preserve located on one of Northeast Florida’s sea islands. It’s home to a number of indigenous creatures such as osprey, white pelicans, raccoons, bobcats, and more. You may even catch a glimpse of the North Atlantic Right Whales, which are usually in the area November through March.

In addition to wildlife viewing, you can enjoy a number of activities within the park, including:

• Picnicking
• Birding
• Canoeing and kayaking
• Hiking or ranger-led guided tours
• Fishing
• Rollerblading
• Shelling
• Geo-seeking
• Bicycling
• And more

There’s no shortage of things to do at this Jacksonville park. You could go for a leisurely morning stroll, or pack a lunch and spend the entire day on this unique Florida coastal island. Many people like to bring their cameras for some quality photographing of wildlife or of fun family moments.

Park hours are 8 a.m. until sundown every day of the year, including holidays. Admission fees are minimal, depending on which part of the park you plan to use. To pay your fee, the park uses an honor system where you place your cash into a box. Note that the fees are based on an 8-person-per-vehicle rate, so if you’re filling up at 15-passenger van, you may want to double your payment.

To get to the park, you can rent a minivan from Carl’s Van Rentals in Jacksonville and drive approximately 35 minutes northeast, just north of Little Talbot Island State Park. Carl’s has a wide range of rental options, including minivans, passenger vans, and more. We have a van to fit every group and budget (including regular rental specials), so check out our inventory to find just the right van to get you around Jacksonville.

For more information or to make a reservation, contact Carl’s today at (904) 727-3848, or book a van online anytime.

photo by Smokemob (Own work) [CC BY 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons