Best Things to Do Near St. Augustine Campgrounds
Introduction
Camping near St. Augustine lets you stay just minutes from one of the oldest and most important cities in the United States. St. Augustine started in 1565. The city brings together hundreds of years of history, beaches, state parks, places to see animals, and fun places for families. You can get to these by car or bike from where people camp.
No matter if you park at Anastasia State Park, stay in an RV resort close by, or are at a campground near A1A, these are the best things you can do while you are here.
For the latest news, hours, and any notices about keeping things safe, go to:
- nps.gov
- floridastateparks.org
- citystaug.com
Top Things to Do Near St. Augustine Campgrounds
1. Explore Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
The Castillo de San Marcos National Monument is the oldest stone fort in the United States. The National Park Service looks after it. You can see talks with park rangers, watch old-time weapon shows, and take in wide views of Matanzas Bay.
2. Relax at Anastasia State Park Beaches
This park, on a safe island, has over 1,600 acres. You will find beaches, tidal marshes, and tree-filled hammocks there. People can swim, surf, ride bikes, or camp in this place. You can make a booking and read updates from Florida State Parks.
3. Stroll Along Historic St. George Street
St. George Street is for people to walk only. There are old buildings, many shops, and places to eat. You can get to this spot easily if you drive in from the campground areas.
4. Discover the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
Go up 219 steps. At the top, you can see wide views of the coast at the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum. The displays show shipwreck work. You also learn about Florida’s sea history.
5. Take a Scenic Drive on A1A Coastal Byway
The A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway goes along the Atlantic coast of Florida. You will see the ocean, find spots to get to the beach, and many places for good photos. It is a good choice for people in RVs who want to see more than just the city.
6. Visit the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park
The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park is the place linked to the first Spanish trips to this land. There are displays here with old items dug up from the ground, and people act out how life was in the 1500s.
7. Enjoy Wildlife Watching at GTM Research Reserve
The Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve helps protect the coast areas found between Ponte Vedra and St. Augustine. People like to come here for birdwatching, kayaking, and hiking.
8. Learn at the Colonial Quarter Living History Museum
The Colonial Quarter is close to St. George Street. Here, you can see live blacksmith shows. You can also watch musket practice and see people make old-time crafts.
9. Picnic at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park
The Washington Oaks Gardens State Park has nice gardens you can walk through. There are also interesting coquina rock shapes along the beach.
10. Experience the Oldest Wooden School House
The Oldest Wooden School House was built in the early 1700s. It shows how education worked back in colonial times.
11. Discover Unique Finds at Local Farmers Markets
Check the City of St. Augustine website to see new schedules for the farmers market. You can find local produce, crafts, and people who sell food there.
12. Try Local Seafood at Vilano Beach Restaurants
Vilano Beach is a good place to eat by the water. You can get fresh Florida seafood here. It is nice to look at the sunset while you eat.
13. Hike the Trails of Faver-Dykes State Park
The Faver-Dykes State Park has shaded trails where you can hike. You can also enjoy freshwater fishing at this park.
14. Go Kayaking or Paddleboarding on Salt Run
Salt Run is a peaceful stretch of water by Anastasia Island. People like to kayak and paddleboard here.
15. Join a Free Concert at the Plaza de la Constitución
The well-known Plaza de la Constitución has free public events and concerts during the year. You can check citystaug.com for show times.
16. Visit the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park
The St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park has many kinds of alligators. You can also see birds there. The park has a zip line, too.
17. Step Back in Time at Fort Mose Historic State Park
The Fort Mose Historic State Park is the place where the first free Black community was allowed by law in what is now the United States.
18. Enjoy Family Fun at Project SWING Playground
The Project SWING Playground is made by people in the community. It is close to downtown. This place gives families a good spot for outdoor fun.
19. Discover Local Art at St. Augustine Art Association
The St. Augustine Art Association shows work from local artists. There are also changing exhibitions.
20. Walk Your Dog at North Beach Park
North Beach Park is a good place for you to take your dog. The beach is just north of Vilano.
21. Attend Seasonal Festivals Like Nights of Lights
Nights of Lights happen every year. It starts in the middle of November and goes until January. The Historic District is lit up with millions of white lights during this time.
Conclusion
Staying at St. Augustine campgrounds makes it easy for you to get to beaches, old landmarks, parks with wild animals, pretty drives, and fun spots for the whole family. All of these are just a few minutes from your campsite.
You can visit old forts, go kayaking on the water, and eat some local seafood. There is something to do for everyone, no matter how you like to travel.
Plan Smarter with BlueSpot Guide
If you are camping near St. Augustine or want to make an RV stop on Florida’s Historic Coast, check out BlueSpotGuide.com. You will find trusted campground spots, simple digital area guides, and good local tips for your trip. This site can help you get the most out of your stay.
Start getting ready for your trip to a St. Augustine campground today.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can walk along St. George Street. You can visit Plaza de la Constitución. There are public beaches you can enjoy. You can also hike trails at state parks, but you may need to pay for parking. The city also hosts free concerts or seasonal events you can go to.
Families can use kayaks on Salt Run. They can also go to Anastasia State Park. You can hike on Faver-Dykes trails. Visit Fort Mose with your family or spend some time at Project SWING Playground.
Fort Mose Historic State Park gives people a good look at history. Washington Oaks’ coquina rock shoreline is nice to see and walk along. The GTM Research Reserve is great for learning and being outdoors. These spots are good if you want to get out of the busy tourist places and see something new.