History

East of Jacksonville's skyscrapers and west of the beaches, this state park protects one of the largest contiguous areas of coastal uplands remaining in Duval County. The uplands protect the water quality of the Nassau and St. Johns rivers, ensuring the survival of aquatic plants and animals, and providing an important refuge for birds.

Salt Marsh

The estuarine ecosystem at Pumpkin Hill is crucial to protecting the water quality of the St. Johns and Nassau rivers. It also provides the perfect environment for the growth of many species of plant and animal life.

Meadow of flowers

A ride or hike along one of the trails is sure to be a reward for the eyes and senses. Open meadows provide a wonderful opportunity to see Florida's native flowers, trees and shrubs at their best.

Salt Marsh

The marshes and creeks in and around the preserve are great places to launch a canoe or kayak for a peaceful paddle.

Horseback Riders

Horseback riders enjoy riding the many trails at Pumpkin Hill. From a short 0.75-mile ride to the longest trail, at over 5 miles, there is a trail for everyone here.

Cat-face

It is hard to travel through natural Florida and not see evidence of the turpentine industry on the faces of longleaf and slash pine trees. At Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve, trees can be seen with cat-faces. Cat-faces were incisions cut into the pine trees to extract sap, which was processed into turpentine.