Friends of Fort Clinch - Fernandina Beach, FL
Friends of Fort Clinch: A Dog-Friendly Outdoor Destination in Fernandina Beach, Florida
Friends of Fort Clinch, located on Fort Clinch Rd in Fernandina Beach, Florida, is a must-visit for both locals and visitors looking for a dog-friendly adventure on Amelia Island. While the historic fort itself does not allow dogs inside, the surrounding park is well-known for its scenic hiking and biking trails, lush shade from Spanish moss-draped trees, and easy access to beautiful, uncrowded beaches. With your dog on-leash, you can explore peaceful trails, enjoy sunset views over the lighthouse, and relax at wooded picnic areas with benches and covered shelters—a perfect way to connect with nature while keeping your furry friend close.
The park offers free and spacious parking, nearby restrooms, running water, indoor and outdoor showers, and mobility-friendly beach access. Families will appreciate the nearby playground and convenient facilities like picnic tables, BBQ grills, and well-maintained bathrooms. Whether you’re seeking serene pet-friendly trails, a relaxing beach day, or a quiet spot to sit in the shade, Friends of Fort Clinch is a top dog park destination in Fernandina Beach, Florida, blending fun, comfort, and convenience for every member of the family—including the four-legged ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the park’s leash requirements? Dogs must remain on leash while visiting Friends of Fort Clinch.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, the park has areas of shade, covered shelters, and benches for visitors and their pets.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, there are restroom facilities with indoor and outdoor showers near the parking and picnic areas.
- Where is the best place to park? There is free, spacious parking close to the main park facilities for easy access.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, a playground with new equipment and picnic tables is available near the covered areas.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the park features pet-friendly hiking and biking trails surrounded by lush greenery.
- Are picnics or BBQs allowed? Yes, picnic shelters and BBQ grills are available for public use.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Visitors report that the park and beach areas are clean and well-maintained.
Reviews
I didn’t tour the fort as we had our dog with us & they’re not allowed inside so I waited at the gift shop. Hubby says in the buildings it felt eerie. He is not a believer of anything…but he said it gave him the creeps. Weird for him to say it. As we drove out, down the tree & bush lined road we both clearly heard a man’s voice say, “Get out!” I said did you hear that? He said, “what, a man saying to get out?” Yep, exactly what I heard. Never had a “ghost” encounter in 59 years, but this today still has both of us puzzled. Definitely visit this place, it was very interesting, pretty beaches nearby and possibly “haunted”.
Nice place to stop and sit in the shade
Fun thing to do on the island if you have a car! There is a gift shop, a little museum, the fort, loads of hiking and biking trails, and a very pretty beach! It’s fairly inexpensive to get in (NULL per car and NULL.50 per person to get into the fort). The Spanish moss there is incredible!
It’s a small hiking trail that opens up to a great view of the lighthouse across the water.
It is a good option to watch the sunset, with a view of the lighthouse, it has some benches where you can sit and enjoy nature, the colors are beautiful, an excellent place to connect with nature.