Blue Cypress Park

Stretching along the scenic banks of the St. Johns River, Blue Cypress Park is one of the most versatile recreation spots Jacksonville has to offer. It is more than just a green space; it is a full-scale modern recreational center where the natural beauty of Florida’s landscapes blends seamlessly with advanced sports infrastructure. In the USA, such parks are valued for offering something for everyone, from those seeking quiet contemplation to fans of an active lifestyle.

The park's location in an environmentally sensitive zone adds special significance, allowing visitors to enjoy views of wetlands and the river while walking. It features a modern swimming pool, a renovated boardwalk, and a popular golf course that recently found a second life. Thanks to this range of amenities, it is considered an ideal spot for family leisure within the city.

The park boasts a high rating among locals, confirming the quality of its facilities: from synthetic soccer fields to pickleball courts. Whether you come for a morning jog on the 2.5-mile trail or an evening of fishing from the pier, the welcoming and cozy atmosphere will make your visit memorable.

To plan your visit and check the details of various facilities, you can contact the site administration directly. Below are the current contact details, including phone numbers for the community center and golf club, as well as the exact address for your GPS.

For your convenience, we have gathered all key contacts in one table so you can quickly find the necessary phone number or official web resource.

Fans of active leisure will certainly not be bored here. One of the main draws is the 9-hole golf course with a driving range, where you can rent equipment and hone your skills. For fans of team games, there are modern pickleball and tennis courts, as well as a synthetic turf soccer field that stays in excellent condition regardless of the weather.

If you prefer water activities, be sure to check out the new swimming pool. It hosts team practices as well as public swim sessions and water aerobics programs. Families with children will appreciate the playgrounds and the special splash pad, where little ones can safely play with water under the warm Florida sun.

The park's natural setting also invites more peaceful pastimes. Take a stroll along the 2.5-mile trail that winds through the trees and leads to the St. Johns River. Local fishermen are often seen on the fishing pier, and you might even spot dolphins frolicking in the river waters. After your walk, you can enjoy a barbecue in one of the shaded pavilions equipped with grills and picnic tables.

Located in the northern part of the Arlington neighborhood, Blue Cypress Park is easily accessible for those traveling by car. The main route follows University Boulevard, and the park is situated just north of Jacksonville University. Ample free parking is provided on-site, making personal transport the most convenient option for families and large groups.

If you prefer public transportation, you can use the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) bus services. Routes run along University Boulevard, and the park entrance is just a few minutes' walk from the nearest stops. For those staying in the city center, it may be more convenient to take a taxi or use ride-sharing services to reach the park quickly.

For those who enjoy active travel, bike paths lead to the park, connecting it with nearby residential areas. Despite the availability of buses, we recommend choosing a car for visitors with children or sports equipment, as the park grounds are extensive and it’s more convenient to have your gear close at hand.

It is fascinating to see how an area originally intended purely for sports has evolved into a multifaceted public space. Initially, the site housed an 18-hole golf course that served the residents of the Edenfield River Estates neighborhood. However, city authorities decided to make the area more versatile, and in 2001, the first boardwalk and fishing pier were added.

The transformation continued in 2003 when the golf course was reduced to 9 holes to make room for other forms of recreation. In 2004, the infrastructure expanded significantly with the addition of soccer fields, tennis courts, and modern walking trails. This turned the facility from a niche sports club into a true recreational hub for the entire community.

The modern era of the park's history is marked by extensive renovations. In May 2025, the grand opening of the new pool took place, replacing the old facility and becoming a center for family leisure. Development plans include further expanding the golf area to 12 holes by the end of 2025, highlighting the city's commitment to preserving sports traditions while integrating them into the modern landscape.

When planning a trip to Blue Cypress Park, your time commitment will depend on your preferred type of recreation. If your goal is a simple stroll along the boardwalk and taking in the views of the St. Johns River, 1–2 hours will be sufficient to walk the main trails and relax on the pier.

For those who want to take full advantage of all the amenities, it is best to set aside half a day (about 3–5 hours). This gives you enough time for a round of golf, an hour at the modern pool, or a family picnic in one of the pavilions. Keep in mind that active sports like tennis or pickleball may require additional time depending on your preferences.

The general park grounds are typically open during daylight hours, approximately from 07:00 AM to 07:00 PM daily. This is the ideal time for walking the trails and relaxing by the river. However, please note that specific facilities within the park have their own operating schedules.

For example, the swimming pool operates on a seasonal schedule: during the main period (June–August), it is open on weekdays from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM, and from midday on weekends. The community center welcomes visitors during daytime hours from Monday to Friday. To avoid any issues, we strongly recommend checking the current opening hours for the golf club and the pool on the official City of Jacksonville website before your visit.

The area surrounding the park offers plenty of options for continuing your Florida journey. Exploring nearby locations will allow you to dive deeper into the region's atmosphere, combining nature with cultural and entertainment sites.