Fort Clinch State Park — Attraction in Fernandina Beach

My husband and I, always eager for a daytime adventure, found ourselves drawn to Fort Clinch State Park during our stay in Amelia Island. We had driven past it a few times and curiosity got the better of us - a decision we’re now incredibly grateful for. The park not only offered excellent campgrounds but also revealed itself to be a historic gem.

Upon entering, we were immediately struck by how well-preserved the fort is. It’s like stepping into a different era. The museum-like demonstrations are exceptionally well done. We explored the sleeping quarters, kitchens, latrines, jailhouse, storage areas, and even a store and steelworks. Also several real life artillery and cannons were on display. Each section was an insightful glimpse into the past, making it easy to imagine life during those times. The attention to detail in these demonstrations was remarkable, offering a vivid and educational experience.

The most captivating aspect of Fort Clinch is how it immerses you in history. It’s not just about seeing; it’s about feeling the past around you. We spent hours wandering through the grounds, absorbing every detail, and left with a newfound appreciation for the history of the area.

Our visit to Fort Clinch has inspired us to plan a camping trip there on our next visit to Amelia Island. The thought of spending a night under the stars, surrounded by such rich history, is thrilling. We highly recommend Fort Clinch to anyone visiting Amelia Island, whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a unique way to spend your day. It’s a must-visit destination that offers a perfect blend of education, nature,...

Not only is it a fort, but it's also in a protected state park, so it is well upkept! And it's not overly packed or surrounded by city, so it's also quiet and very peaceful. It's a small enough fort to be educational and fun without dragging on and getting boring for the kids. Now, it is an old fort, so it's not super accessible with lots of dirt and lots of steps for attempted flood control during the old days. There are a lot you can see if you are able to work with dirt. There is a ramp to the canons, which is super nice that they were able to fix up and include. It is very difficult to legally fix and change things for old structures, but they have tried to keep the grounds picked up and leveled and upkeeping what they can.

The shop is also a nice air-conditioned break! There are plenty of goodies and some snacks. There is also seating available for bringing lunch with you. It isn't horrible getting through the whole fort even in summer, though; it is small enough to not get overwhelmingly hot (if you aren't a snowbird anyway, haha).

On top of that, there's beach access just off the parking lot for some breaks for young kids or just for fun afterward. Amelia Island is known as a deposit for shark teeth, too, and that's right there at the inlet with the highest deposit. That doesn't mean they are everywhere still! They aren't like the butterfly shells, and everywhere, they are still a special find. But it does give a sense of a challenge for the area if you are shelling or to get kids having fun looking at the surrounding beach. Because...

Love Fort Clinch. The beautiful canopy driving to the historic fort is always one of my favorite drives. Drive slow and enjoy the view. Think of the history and think of the men that had to go first to chop the path and tried to tolerate the heat, bugs,snakes and alligators. Get the full history of Ft Clinch. You will laugh! Go to the beach and find shark teeth. You may spot a submarine coming or going at high tide. Always a thrill. Ash a fisherman what ha caught. One will always be a shark. Yes they are in the water. I go in the water. I know this is there home, the ocean. Don’t swim by the fishermen. Common since please. Walk on the jetties for beautiful silly pictures. Stay out of the dunes, it’s frowned upon. Watch out for turtle egg homes. They are staked out. Don’t touch the turtles. Let them do the work themselves. Just watch. Take all your trash, any trash to the trash cans including cigarette butts. It’s trash. Especially plastic. BAD BAD BAD for our ocean. Pick it up I even if it’s not yours. I do. Fill all your holes in the sand. Holes are turtle killers. Watch for flags as you enter. Riptides kill. There are wonderful facilities for you to use not abuse. Enjoy the beach. Treat it nice. Most of all enjoy the beauty of Fort Clinch....