Faver-Dykes State Park

The Faver-Dykes State Park is located in Saint Augustine, Florida, is best known for its pretty picnicking spots and vast collection of songbirds. In fact, its activities go well beyond simple grassy knolls and collections of pretty flowers.

The park was established in 2009 to provide outreach and other programs to the community. It has grown substantially in a short time to include guided type tours, varied activities and interpretive programs. Open daily from 8am to sunset, it is a primary place for many local families to enjoy family time in a quiet and pretty environment.

The park is renowned for being well-kept. It is a tranquil place that winds its way alongside the eastern coastal highways until it reaches the Matanzas River. Being such a popular spot for bird watching, many visitors can see up to one hundred species of birds at any given time when the migrations occur during the fall and spring. These include nesting birds that return every year, including falcons, eagles and warblers. Others hangout near the waterways to see herons and ibis; checking out the creeks and tidal marshes for storks and egrets, though only feet away, amongst the undergrowth, it is easy to find some turkeys and hawks.

The Faver-Dykes State Park is popular for its nature walks, picnicking and fishing. Certain parts are good for canoeing and camping overnight is quite common. However, what also appeals to many visitors are its wild animals, though less frequently seen, they are a pleasant surprise for many. These include otters, bobcats and deer.