Mazda City of Orange Park

Nov 4, 2021

Spending time in the great outdoors is one of the simple joys of life. Whichever kinds of recreation you enjoy, spending time under the sun and in the fresh air is a fantastic way to improve your physical and mental health. Luckily, the Jacksonville, FL area offers plenty of amazing opportunities for fun outdoor activities.Puppy following behind girl on bike

3 Great Outdoor Activities Near Jacksonville, FL

1. Take a Walk at Cary State Forest

When you’re looking to appreciate your natural surroundings, there’s nothing better than taking a walk. Slowing things down and taking in your scenery is a great way to reconnect with your natural surroundings, and you might spot things you’d have otherwise missed on a more vigorous form of exercise like cycling or running.

Cary State Forest is a great spot to enjoy hiking, offering a wide range of trails that wind through the luscious forest. You’ll see streams, ponds, and a variety of wildlife species. The 13,385-acre site can be found just north of Bryceville, a short drive west of the downtown area. Admission is free. Be sure to download or print off a trail map for the Florida Division of Forestry website before you go to ensure you don’t get lost!

2. Visit Jacksonville Zoo And Gardens

Jacksonville residents are lucky enough to benefit from a quality animal attraction right on their doorstep. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is a 122-acre site, playing host to over 2,000 animals. Visitors can wander the well-maintained exhibits, viewing Komodo dragons, jaguars, tigers, giraffes, elephants, and a huge range of other beasts and birds from all over the world!  There are also a wide range of rare plants to be seen.

Not only is a visit to the zoo a great way to enjoy learning about animals and seeing all your favorite species up close, it’s also a great way to enjoy some serious walking. You’ll be surprised by how many steps you take throughout the day as you go from exhibit to exhibit! The zoo and gardens are open from 9am to 5pm, all year round and dining options are available onsite.

3. Enjoy Boating at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park

If you love spending time on the water, you don’t have to go to the beach. There are plenty of amazing lakes around town to enjoy a spot of quiet boating without the busy crowds on the beach and the ocean waves buffeting your boat.

One of the best boating spots in time is the lake at the Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park. The pristine water is perfect for a spot of canoeing, kayaking, or rowing, and you’ll enjoy the serene water and beautiful surroundings on your visit. Plenty of parking and bathroom facilities are available onsite, and fishing, swimming, and surfing are also available here.

To enjoy all these wholesome activities and discover more fun in the great outdoors, you’ll need a safe and reliable way to get around. Come on down to Mazda City of Orange Park today for a great deal on a new or pre-owned vehicle to suit your needs.