Welcome to Little Talbot Island State Park

With more than five miles of beautiful, white sandy beaches, Little Talbot Island is one of the few remaining undeveloped barrier islands in Northeast Florida. Maritime forests, desert-like dunes, and undisturbed salt marshes on the western side of the island allow for hours of nature study and relaxation. The diverse habitats in the park host a wealth of wildlife for viewing including river otters, marsh rabbits, bobcats, and a variety of native and migratory birds.

Surrounding surf and tidal streams present excellent fishing for bluefish, striped bass, redfish, flounder, mullet, and sheepshead. Other popular park activities include hiking, kayaking, beachcombing (use of metal detectors is prohibited north of the first boardwalk and landward of the last high tide line), surfing and picnicking. Beachside picnic pavilions are available for use by park visitors and can be reserved in advance for a fee.

A full facility campground is located along the eastern salt marshes of Myrtle Creek. The close proximity to the tidal creek provides great recreational opportunities for campers but sites close to the creek, specifically sites 16, 34, 35, and 36, are subject to flooding during the extreme tides associated with a full moon, a new moon, or a strong storm. These natural events should be taken into consideration when selecting a camping site. For more information about camping at the park, contact the Ranger Station at 904-251-2320. To reserve a campsite call Reserve America at 1-800-326-3521.

To rent a kayak or go on a guided paddle tour of the inland waters contact
Kayak Amelia at (888) 30-KAYAK (305-2925). Kayak Amelia is just north of the Little Talbot Island Ranger Station on State Road A1A. Advance reservations are required.

If dry land is more your style, try a guided Segway tour of Little Talbot Island or Fort George Island with Ecomotion Tours. Reservations are required. Call 904-251-9477 for more information.

Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Little Talbot Island State Park, please call 904-251-2320.

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Hours of Operation

Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.

Driving Directions

Take I-95 to Heckscher Drive (Milepost Exit 358A - Old Exit 124A) and then travel east for 17 miles.

Park Fees

Admission Fees: $4.00 per vehicle (up to 8 passengers). Single Car Occupant: $3.00

Motorcycle Fee (one or two persons):$3.00

Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicles with a holder of an Annual Individual Entrance permit: $1.00 per person.

Camping Fee: $19.00 per day for full service campsite.

Activities at Little Talbot Island State Park

	Beaches Little Talbot Island offers four and half miles of beautiful beaches. With two parking areas and 5 boardwalks, access to the beach is easy. Three bathhouses and outdoor showers are also provided for your beach enjoyment. Beach wheelchairs are available, please ask at Ranger Station. At the North Beach, 1 handicap toilet stall is available in each of Men's and Women's bath houses at Bath House #1 and Bath House #2. Handicap showers are located at Boardwalks #1 and #2. At the Mini Pavilions, there is a handicap shower located at Boardwalk #3. At the South Beach, 1 handicap toilet stall is available in each of Men's and Women's bath houses at Bath House #3. Fort George Inlet parking area has 1 handicap port-o-let. ADA restrooms are also available at the Ranger Station (1 restroom with handicap toilet and sink) and the Administrative Office (1 restroom with handicap toilet, sink, and shower).
	Bicycling Bicycling can be enjoyed throughout the park, whether you prefer to stay on the paved two and a half mile Park Drive, or ride along the hard packed sand of the beach. A limited number of bicycles are available for rent at the Ranger Station. Guided Segway Trips. Looking for a unique and exhilarating experience? Explore the beauty of these barrier islands as never before—on Segways®. EcoMotion Tours is one of Talbot Islands State Parks’ visitors service providers operating on Little Talbot Island and nearby Fort George Island. EcoMotion Tours uses Segway transporters to provide an enjoyable and modern way of touring. Segways are two-wheeled, battery-powered devices that respond to the way you lean. These eco-friendly transporters are quiet and easy on the trails, providing a wonderful way to explore nature without disturbing its inhabitants. You’ll be equipped with a wireless headset so our guides can point out the fascinating plant and animal life along the trails. Ecomotion Tours provides helmets, orientation and training to ensure everyone has a relaxed and safe experience. No experience is necessary, but there is a minimum age requirement (13 years old) and a weight requirement (between 100-250lbs). Riders under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. All guided trips include instruction, interpretation, bottled water, and a snack. RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED. The tour on Little Talbot Island is a 5-mile trip through a mature maritime forest that leads to the beach. You’ll enjoy watching the true beauty of a coastal hammock unfold as your cross-terrain Segway transports you along this amazing island trail. This trip departs from the north parking lot of Little Talbot Island and will last about 2.5 hours. There are two tour options available for Fort George Island. The morning tour is nearly four miles long and travels through the island’s maritime forest and visits Kingsley Plantation. The afternoon tour is approximately an hour long and omits the Kingsley segment. Fort George tours depart from the Ribault Club. On these tours you’ll hear the storied history of the island and see up close the unique flora indigenous to this habitat. Visit Ecomotion Tours for schedules and call 904-251-9477 to make reservations.
	Canoeing & Kayaking Long Island Outfitters is Talbot Islands State Park's canoe and kayak visitor service provider located on AIA between Little Talbot and Big Talbot Islands. The service is operated by Kayak Amelia and offers everything from basic rentals to special focus guided trips. The facility provides local information including maps, safety information, and possible routes. Inside the concession, you'll find snacks and drinks, restrooms, and souvenirs. Canoe and kayak rentals are available, or if you have your own, there is access to a hand launch ramp. Kayak Amelia offers guided paddles including; birding paddles, tai-chi paddles, sunset and full-moon paddles, and special focus paddles. All guided trips include instruction, snack, and interpretation. For those bringing their own kayaks or canoes the fees for using the hand-launch at Long Island Outfitters is $1.00 per person. Long Island Outfitters is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm throughout the year, however it is closed on Wednesdays December through February. For additional information contact Kayak Amelia at 904-251-0016 or the Ranger Station at Little Talbot Island State Park (904-251-2320).
	Fishing With literally miles of beach, Little Talbot is a surf fishing paradise. The list of species caught from this beach is long. Check with the ranger at the gate or strike up a conversation with one of the regulars; either should know what is biting and where. The coastal salt marsh on the "back" side of the island offers superb light tackle angling. From tailing redfish to bottom hugging flounder, ambushing trout to hard pulling black drum, you are sure to find something to "stretch your string." Do you need a Fishing License? Do you need a Fishing License?
	Full Facility Camping Camping is offered on the western side of Little Talbot Island along Myrtle Creek, approximately a quarter of a mile from the beach. Our campground has 40 campsites, each with water, electricity, an in-ground fire ring, and a picnic table. Most of the sites are nicely shaded by huge moss-draped Live Oak trees. There are two full-facility bath houses, a dump station, a launch area for small boats, a nature trail, and a nice playground. Bicycles can be rented at the Ranger station. Camping Fees The flat rate for camping is $19.00/night, for all seasons of the year. Please see the state park fee schedule for additional charges that may apply. Reservations are accepted up to one year in advance by calling 1-866 I CAMP FL (1-866-422-6735) or 1-800-326-3521. Pets are also allowed in the campground, free of charge, however they are not allowed on the beach at any time. A camping deposit via a major credit card, check, or cash is required. The campground on Little Talbot Island is situated on the west Side of A1A, directly across the road from the main entrance of Little Talbot Island State Park. All forty sites are located in a shady hammock area with live oak trees and dense palmetto growth. The majority of sites provide some shade for cool relief from the sunshine. All of the sites have a water tap with potable water and the option of 15 and 30 amp electrical service hook-up. A dump station is located near the entrance. Two bath-houses provide flush toilets and hot water showers. Myrtle Creek, a scenic tidal estuary, skirts along the western portion of the campground past our small amphitheatre, dock, and boat ramp for small non-motorized boats. A playground is situated near the center of the campground for the younger visitors. Beach access is on the east side of A1A, about a 10-minute walk (or 5 minute bike ride) from the campsites. While camping at Little Talbot Island, make sure to take advantage of the beach, hiking and biking trails, fishing opportunities, weekend interpretive programs, or visit one of our park concessions (Long Island Outfitters operated by Kayak Amelia, Kelly Seahorse Ranch and Nassau Sound Bait and Tackle Shop). The North bath house has a handicap toilet, sink, and shower in Men's room and in Women's room. The South bath house has a handicap toilet, sink, and shower in Men's room and in Women's room.
	Group Camping A primitive camping area is available to groups and organizations. Water, picnic tables, a fire ring, and a porta-toilet are available for this area. Reservations for the group camping area should be made through the Ranger Station at Little Talbot Island State Park 904-251-2320.
	Interpretive Ranger Programs Interpretive Ranger Programs are offered at the Talbot Islands State Parks most weekends. The topics and locations of programs vary. Please call the Ranger Station at Little Talbot Island State Park (904-251-2320) for program information
	Nature Trails Little Talbot offers the opportunity of sampling a complete cross section of a coastal barrier island. Exposing a variety of the island's wildlife, the Nature Trail is anchored at one corner of the campground and provides a comfortable walk of approximately one mile. The Hiking Trail winds four miles through five distinct natural communities, including maritime hammock, beach dune, and depression marsh and finishes its last mile and a quarter with a breathtaking stroll on the sandy beach. If you choose to hike the trails, always check in at the ranger station and remember your water, sunscreen, and insect repellant.
	Pet Camping Pets must be confined, leashed (not to exceed six feet in length) or otherwise under the physical control of a person at all times. Tethered pets must not be left unattended for more than 30 minutes. Quiet hours must be observed from 11:00 p.m. - 8:00 a.m. Pet owners must pick up after their pets and properly dispose of all pet droppings in trash receptacles. Florida law requires that pets be vaccinated against rabies. Any pet that is noisy, dangerous, intimidating or destructive will not be allowed to remain in the park. Non-furbearing pets, such as reptiles, birds, or fish must be confined or under the physical control of the owner. Some animals may be prohibited on park property. Failure to abide by these rules may result in the camper being asked to board the pet outside the park or to leave the campground.
	Pet Camping Pet camping is available in our campground. Florida law requires that pets be vaccinated against rabies. Pets must be confined, leashed, or otherwise under the physical control of a person at all times. Leashes must be hand-held and may not exceed six feet in length. Pets must be well-behaved at all times and must be confined in the owner's camping unit during designated quiet hours (11:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m.). Unconfined pets must be leashed and cannot be left unattended for more than thirty minutes. Pet owners are required to pick up after their pets and properly dispose of all pet droppings in trash receptacles. Pets considered a nuisance are not allowed to remain in the park.
	Pets Well-behaved dogs are welcome at Little Talbot Island State Park on our hiking trails, pavilions, paved park roads, parking lots, multi-use trails, and campground. They must be kept on a 6-foot leash at all times and can not be left unattended for more than a half-hour. Dogs are not permitted on beaches, shorelines or beach boardwalks.
	Picnicking Thirteen pavilions, that can be reserved, are available in the picnic areas.
	RV's The Campground on Little Talbot Island serves as the camping facility for Amelia Island, Big Talbot Island, and Little Talbot Island, and Fort George Island State Parks. Of the forty sites, there are about 12 sites that can accommodate RV type campers, depending on the size of the camping rig. Each site is equipped with electrical hookups (20 and 30 AMP), potable water, an in-ground fire ring, and a picnic table. The dump station is located by the campground gate. The North bath house has a handicap toilet, sink, and shower in Men's room and in Women's room. The South bath house has a handicap toilet, sink, and shower in Men's room and in Women's room.
	Surfing The north beach area of Little Talbot offers one of the best surfing beaches in northeast Florida. While there are 5 miles of beach on Little Talbot Island, the northern section of the beach offers the best surf, with plenty of space to catch your own wave. Please be aware of other swimmers and always use caution while enjoying the ocean.
	Swimming Swimming is permitted in the areas accessed from the north beach parking lot only. Please use caution at all times, as there are no lifeguards on duty. Swimming is discouraged at the southern end of the island due to dangerous currents. The beach is easily accessible with plenty of parking, dune walkovers, and bathhouses.
	Wildlife Viewing Because Little Talbot is one of the few remaining undeveloped barrier islands, it provides many different natural habitats. These diverse habitats make for a wealth of wildlife within the park. Gopher tortoise and snakes can be seen throughout the park. The shoreline provides ample opportunity to view shorebirds, and the backside of the island is a haven for wading birds. Follow the Little Talbot Hiking Trail over a cross section of ecosystems, and you may be surprised at what you find!

Special Events for Little Talbot Island State Park

• WILD AMELIA BEACH WALK
  Date: Saturday, May 17th, 2008. 11:00 a.m.
  Description: Join a park ranger for a walk on the beach as they explain the importance of undeveloped beach habitat, including many interesting facts about sea creatures and common shells found in the area. The program will take place at pavilion four on Little Talbot Island. No reservations are necessary and the program is free with regular park admission. For additional information visit Wild Amelia Nature Festival.
  
  Fees: This program is free with regular park admission.
  Contact: For more information, call 904-251-2320.
  
• WILD AMELIA NATURE HIKE
  Date: Sunday, May 18th, 2008. 11:00 a.m.
  Description: Join a park ranger at the Ribault Club for a leisurely-paced hour long hike to discover the island’s natural communities. Bug spray and a water bottle are recommended. No reservations are necessary and the program is free. For additional information visit Wild Amelia Nature Festival.
  
  This program will take place at the Ribault Club on Fort George Island Cultural State Park.
  
  Fees: This program is free.
  Contact: For more information, call 904-251-2320.
  
• BEGINNING BIRD WATCHING
  Date: Sunday, May 25th, 2008. 1:00 p.m.
  Description: Join a park ranger and discover important bird habits, behaviors, and identification techniques. The program will take place at the pavilion behind the Ribault Club on Fort George Island. No reservations are necessary and the program is free.
  
  Fees: This program is free.
  Contact: For more information, call 904-251-2320.
  
• TALBOT CRITTERS
  Date: Saturday, May 31st, 2008. 11:00 a.m.
  Description: Join a park ranger to learn about the species that inhabit the natural communities of the undeveloped barrier islands of northeast Florida. The program will take place at the pavilion behind the Ribault Club on Fort George Island. No reservations are necessary and the program is free.
  
  Fees: This program is free.
  Contact: For more information, call 904-251-2320.
  

Little Talbot Island State Park Ranger Programs

• UP, UP AND AWAY!
  Annual. Children's kite making workshop.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• SHARK TOOTH FOSSIL IDENTIFICATION
  Quarterly. An illustrated presentation that outlines different types of sharks, both extinct and modern, the process of fossilization, shark myth busters, and identification shark teeth commonly found on Florida beaches.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• TALBOT TOUCH TANK
  Quarterly. A hands-on interpretive program to introduce the public to LIVE native animals of the waters that surround the Talbot Islands State Parks.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• ANIMAL SIGNS
  Quarterly. Discover the identity of mysterious creatures that crawl, scurry, and slither along the natural landscapes of the Talbot Island State Parks. This leisurely paced ranger-guided hike through different Florida ecosystems on a quest to characterize tracks left behind by an assortment of critters. Discover the delicate ecology of Florida's ecosystems and the impacts caused by humans and non-native species to these natural communities.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• FLORIDA SEA TURTLES
  Summer months. Florida's beaches are critical nesting habitat for many species of sea turtles. This illustrated presentation emphasizes the importance of these magnificent and gentle creatures by telling the story of the variety of sea turtles, their life cycle, how the world has united to protect these endangered species, and what you can do to help ensure their survival.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• SPIDERS OF THE TALBOT ISLANDS
  Semi-annual. This park ranger interpretive program focuses on the various kinds of spiders that call Northeast Florida their home. The presentation focuses on spider ecology, web types and construction, prey identification, habitats, beneficial traits, as well as various myths surrounding these interesting creatures. This presentation is followed by a guided walk in search of spiders in their natural setting.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• TALBOT CRITTERS
  Monthly. An educational presentation on the animals that inhabit the barrier island natural communities, including the beach, sand dunes, oak hammock, and estuarine marsh. This interpretive program may include a slide show presentation, mounted animals, and photographs. Park rangers adapt this program to all age levels and it is offered throughout the Talbot Islands State Parks.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• BARRIER ISLANDS
  Quarterly. An informational talk on the natural history of sea islands, and their important role in coastal ecology. Topics addressed include beach erosion, island migration, island formation, and the natural communities present on such barrier islands today. Presented as a power point slide show, illustrated talk, or as a hike throughout the Talbot Islands State Parks.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• SING LIKE A BIRD
  Annual. A children's puppet show about bird communication.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• THE OUTDOOR GOURMET
  Annual. A comparison demonstration of outdoor cooking equipment available and tricks and techniques, recipe book of park ranger and volunteer favorite campside dishes, and samples.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• SALT MARSH BY KAYAK
  Annual. A ranger-led recreational and interpretive program that takes a park visitor kayaking through the salt marsh. Includes kayak instruction, safety instruction, introduction to the salt marsh and estuarine natural communities, and the challenges faced by this ecosystem.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• FLORIDA'S WATER ISSUES
  Annual. This power point slide show provides a an informative background on Florida's hydrological system, and strategies for water conservation. Usually presented during August, Water Efficiency Month, citizens learn how they can help protect Florida's most precious resource. By utilizing efficient water strategies Floridian's can help protect and enhance our more than 700 freshwater springs, 1,350 miles of coastline, and thousands of miles of rivers and lakes.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION PRESENTATION
  Semi-annual, as needed. An orientation to volunteering with the Florida Park Service and the Talbot Islands State Parks.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• ARCHAEOLOGY OF THE TALBOT ISLANDS
  Semi-annual. A power point slide show that demonstrates the diversity and importance of cultural resources at the Talbot Islands State Parks. Topics include an overview of some cultural sites at these parks, such as historic ruins, shell middens, and a ship wreck; a hands-on display of artifacts common to these time periods; what the state parks do to manage these nonrenewable resources.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• INDIAN POTTERY AND EXPERIMENTAL ARCHAEOLOGY
  Annual. A brief introduction to Native American pottery, archaeological terminology, and methods of experimentation used in the laboratory. This illustrated talk is followed by a hands-on workshop in which park visitors become laboratory archaeologists and practice reconstructing the past by distinguishing ceramic traits, identifying the minimum number of vessels, and piecing together fragmentary vessels from a hypothetical archaeological dig.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• NATIVE AMERICAN POTTERY OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA
  Annual. A power point slide show that traces the cultural development of ancient people of northeast Florida through the material culture they left behind. Topics include the cultural traditions of the past from the time of the paleoindians to the time of European contact, by primarily studying the development of clay composition, vessel formation, and design of ancient pottery over time. Includes a hands-on display of representative pottery fragments.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• PARK RANGER AS A CAREER
  As requested. A presentation to school groups or other youth groups that shares career opportunities in the Florida Park Service and careers in the great outdoors.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• WILDFLOWERS
  Annual. Ranger Guided presentation that demonstrates the diversity and natural beauty of wildflowers that bloom at the Talbot Islands State Parks. May be a power point slide show or a nature walk at any of the Talbot Islands.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• BARRIER ISLAND BIRDS
  Semi-annual. An interpretive program that discusses the various types of bird species that can be found across the various natural communities of a barrier island. May be a power point slide show presentation, or an illustrated talk with photos and/or bird mounts.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• TALBOT ISLANDS SHOREBIRD WORKSHOP
  Semi-Annual. Training workshop for shorebird survey volunteers.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• SHELLS OF THE TALBOT SHORES
  Quarterly. Do you know the difference between a conch and a whelk, or a cockle and a clam? Discover how to identify many of the frequently found shells that wash up on Little Talbot Island State Park.
  Call 904-251-2320 for more details.
• BEGINNING BIRDWATCHING
  Annual. A recreational interpretive program that introduces park visitors to birding. Topics include the basic tools available to birdwatchers, and introduction to bird habitat, behavior, and identification, followed by a short nature walk with a park ranger to see what birds are at the park that day.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• BASIC INSHORE SALT WATER ANGLING
  Annual. A recreational skills presentation by a park ranger that demonstrates rigging a line, fishing knots, various techniques of angling fish.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• WHAT'S HERE?
  Annual. An overview of what's here at the Talbot Islands State Parks that describes the activities and facilities at the parks. Also presented as a power point slide show as a virtual park tour.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• THE TIMUCUA INDIANS
  Annual. A park ranger led interpretive program that tells the story of the Timucuan Indians.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• MARINE ECOLOGY AND BIOLOGY
  Annual. A presentation that describes the marine ecology and biology of the barrier island ecosystems, including the life that is found in the sea, on the beach, on barrier islands, and within the estuaries.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• BUNTING BY BIKE
  Annual. Introduction to the identification of the painted bunting, including their habitat, song, flight characteristics, and migratory patterns, followed by a short bicycle ride to find some of the painted bunting in the wild.
  Call (904) 251-2320 for more details.
• FIRE: FRIEND OR FOE?
  Semi-annual. Learn how fire impacts the environment. Discover the benefits of prescribed fire as a management tool for healthy ecosystems, and as a tool for defending against devastating wildland fires.
  Call Call 904-251-2320 for more details.
• ANIMAL INVASION
  Annual. A diversity of plant and animal species survive in Florida's tropical environment, including both native species and exotic species. These exotic, non-native animals include feral hogs, armadillos, insects, and fungi, and often compete with species native to Florida. Find out how to identify these animals and what you can help Florida's natural communities thrive with native animals.
  Call 904-251-2320 for more details.
• NATIVE YARDS
  Annual. Being a good steward of Florida's natural environment can start in your own backyard! You can help Florida's environment stay natural and healthy by planting native species, eradicating exotic species, and creating an earth-friendly mini-environment on your property. Learn what landscaping styles and plants will bring a diversity of native wildlife for you to enjoy.
  Call 904-251-2320 for more details.
• PLANT POLLUTION
  Annual. A diversity of plant and animal species survive in Florida's tropical environment, including both native species and exotic species. These exotic, non-native plants include varieties of ferns, trees, shrubs, and grasses, and often compete with species native to Florida. Find out how to identify these plants and what you can help Florida's natural communities thrive with native animals.
  Call 904-251-2320 for more details.
• DISCOVERING ARCHAEOLOGY
  Semi-Annual. Bring the whole family to discover how archaeologists reconstruct the lives of ancient people who once lived at the Talbot Island State Parks. This hands-on interpretive presentation is intended to inspire young minds to learn about and appreciate Native American culture through the objects they have left behind.
  Call 904-251-2320 for more details.
• POTSHERDS AND ANCIENT PEOPLE
  Semi-Annual. This in-depth illustrated presentation is intended for adults interested in learning more about the intricacies of archaeological research at the Talbot Islands State Park, as well as the cultural history of these state parks.
  Call 904-251-2320 for more details.
• BEACH WALK
  Quarterly. A walk on the beach that tells the story of the importance of undeveloped beach habitat, including many interesting facts about sea creatures and common shells found in the area.
  Call 904-251-2320 for more details.
• WHAT SLITHERS AT TALBOT?
  Annual. Ooh! A snake! Will it bite me? Is it venomous? This interpretive program explores the snakes that are native to Florida and live at the Talbot Islands State Parks. Learn how to identify the most common snakes, their habitat, and their lifecycles. Discover how important these critters are to maintain healthy and balanced natural communities.
  Call 904-251-2320 for more details.
• NATURE WALK
  Quarterly. Experience the tranquility nature has to offer while traversing through the natural communities that comprise this state park. Natural ecology and cultural history are presented during an hour-long ranger-guided walk.
  Call 904-251-2320 for more details.
• SECRETS OF THE SALT MARSH
  Quarterly. Discover the importance of estuarine systems that surround the inshore sides of barrier islands like those islands of the Talbot Islands State Parks complex. This ranger-guided hike along the salt marsh will help point out why these areas are one of the most productive ecosystems on Earth, the many roles the salt marsh plays, the plant and animal life found in this natural community, and the impacts humans have on this system.
  Call 904-251-2320. for more details.
• TREKKING ON A TRAIL
  Semi-annual. Join a Park Ranger for an introduction to the basics of hiking. This program will be for kids, but parents are welcome too! Weather, wildlife tracking, trail snacks, trail safety, and proper gear will all be discussed. This will be a guided one-hour hike along a section of the Little Talbot Island State Park hiking trail. Please be sure to dress for the weather and bring a water bottle.
  Call 904-251-2320 for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions about Little Talbot Island State Park

Question: Do you have cabins at the Talbot Islands?
Answer: We do not have cabins. Overnight stays are in our 40-site campground.

Question: Is there camping on Big Talbot Island, Amelia Island, or Fort George Island?
Answer: No. The Little Talbot Island campground serves as the authorized camping area for all the Talbot Island Parks. Camping in unauthorized areas is considered trespassing.

Question: Are the campsites shaded?
Answer: The 40 site campground is located in an oak hammock and most sites are shaded. The three sites closest to the canoe/kayak launch are more open and have less shaded area than the others.

Question: Is the campground on the beach? How far is the campground from the beach?
Answer: The campground is on the marsh side (west side) of the island. The beach is approximately 1/3 of a mile from the campground. It is an easy walk, or bicycle ride, to the beach. Youths under 16 years of age are required to wear a helmet on all Talbot Island roads.

Question: Are pets allowed on the beach?
Answer: Pets are not allowed on Little Talbot Island’s Beach, the Big Talbot Shoreline, or Amelia Island State Park. They can accompany you in the picnic areas, on any of the hiking trails (except for Little Talbot beach hiking areas), and in other areas of the park. Pets must be well behaved and be on a leash no longer than six feet. Guide dogs are welcome in all areas. For more information, please read the Official Pet Policy.

Question: Does the park rent camping equipment?
Answer: Campers must provide their own camping gear. A convenience store is located five miles south of the campground and a large grocery store is approximately 10 miles north. Firewood bundles are available and can be purchased at the Ranger station for $6.00 each.

Question: Are the campsites private?
Answer: This varies as the distance between adjacent sites varies. Vegetation between sites also varies.

Question: Can I drive on the beach at Talbot Islands?
Answer: There is no beach driving on Little Talbot, Big Talbot, or Fort George Islands. There is limited beach driving on Amelia Island. A four-wheel drive capability is recommended. You can drive on the beach at Huguenot Memorial Park, a city of Jacksonville park, which is 4 miles south of Little Talbot entrance road. For information on Huguenot call (904) 251-3335.

Little Talbot Island State Park History

Little Talbot Island State Park Volunteer Information

Volunteers can do many things -- greet visitors, conduct tours, help rangers remove exotic plants or maintain the natural beauty of a beach, waterway or trail.Little Talbot Island State Park is very fortunate to benefit from the work of over 50 active volunteers who contribute a total of approximately 6000 person hours of labor each year!Talbot Islands State Parks Volunteer Program includes Individual, Corporate, and Group Volunteers who each fill distinct niches within the park. Local volunteers are involved in facility maintenance, repair projects, beach patrol, trail maintenance or resource monitoring projects, while some resident volunteers fill Campground Host positions.The Friends of Talbot Islands State Parks offers another avenue of volunteer involvement. As a Citizen Support Organization (CSO) for the State Parks of Big Talbot Island, Little Talbot Island, Fort George Island and Amelia Island, this non-profit organization helps the parks do more with less. The CSO lends a hand by fund-raising and providing volunteers to help complete important projects.Are you interested in volunteering with Talbot Islands State Parks? Is your place of employment interested in coming out as a group to volunteer a few hours? What about your scout group or any other groups you are involved in?If so, we can use your help! Please see below to view current position descriptions, then fill out an application and send it in! We are eager to speak with you and match our tasks to your interests and talents.We currently have openings in many areas including those listed below. Take the first step towards a fulfilling way to get involved, gain precious work experience, take on a new challenge and help us to preserve, interpret, and restore the natural and cultural resources of Florida!Maintenance Shop Custodian
Clean and maintain the park shop area and repair equipment and as needed for 20 hours a week. The volunteer will work independently, follow instructions, identify priorities and juggle multiple tasks, solve problems and plan to work with other volunteers.
Volunteer should have experience in vehicle repairs, small engine repair, electrical work, and plumbing. Other assorted repair work is an asset. Grant Coordinator
Independent work developing and coordinating grant-funded programs for Talbot Islands State Parks in association with the Citizen’s Support Organization. The number of hours will vary with grant status.
Volunteer should have experience in grant writing with the ability to plan, organize and coordinate grant applications and implementation. Proficiency in grant principles and techniques, accounting and auditing principles as well as budget and program development. Must provide samples of work. Beach Patrol
Patrol beach to protect safety of visitors. The hours required for the position are 6 hours per shift minimum one shift every second weekend. Shifts are scheduled for Friday, Saturday and Sunday and holidays.
Volunteer should have knowledge of the Little Talbot Island beach resources and rules and regulations are necessary. Experience in operation and maintenance of an ATV. Possess radio skills and good communication skills. Must be able to follow guidelines in the Operations Policy Manual and attend CPR class through the park. Resident Docent
Provides hosting and interpretive services at the Ribault Clubhouse on Fort George Island. The position is for 32 hours of volunteer work a week. This is independent work on tasks as well as working with a team of State and Federal employees. Positions will become available after March 2003. Term of position is 6 weeks with possibility of extension. Dorm-style rooms with basic furniture will be provided on-site with shared kitchen facilities and common areas. Occupants will be responsible for bedding and other personal items.
The volunteer shall have a knowledge and interest in the protection, presentation and interpretation of the cultural resources. Publications Specialist
To review and improve selected brochures, posters and small publications used within the park. The hours are open and varied. The position requires an individual with skills in desktop applications and graphic programs.
Additionally, an ability to analyze and present public information effectively is needed. Must be able to follow publication guidelines set by the Florida Park Service. Computer Clerk
Two hours per week doing word-processing, setting up spreadsheets editing and enter new information into databases.
Must have well developed computer skills with the ability to enter and format information into MS Word, MS Excel and MS Access software programs in a Windows 95 environment; the ability to follow verbal and written instruction; the ability to check for accuracy and correct errors; and the ability to work independently.If you would like to apply for any of the volunteer job opportunities listed above, please fill out the Volunteer Application form provided. Please allow for a few days before receiving a reply, thank you!

Visit the Main Volunteer page for information on volunteering in Florida State Parks

Visit the Main Volunteer page at http://www.floridastateparks.org/volunteers/default.cfm for more detailed Information

Little Talbot Island State Park

12157 Heckscher Drive
Jacksonville, Florida 32226
Phone: 904-251-2320
Fax: Contact Park for Number