Ringhaver Park

Imagine a vast green oasis spanning over 570 acres, located in the southwest of Jacksonville. This is Ringhaver Park — a unique spot in the USA, where modern sports facilities harmoniously coexist with untouched wilderness along the winding Ortega River.

The park owes its name to Lambert C. Ringhaver, founder of Ring Power Corp, whose family made significant contributions to the initial improvement of the area. Today, it is a multi-functional complex that serves as both the home of the Westside Soccer Club and the Ortega Stream Valley protected nature reserve.

Visitors are drawn here by a rare combination of opportunities for active recreation and peaceful contemplation. Whether it's the nature trail through wetlands or professional baseball fields, the park offers the perfect setting to escape the city bustle and spend time in the fresh air.

To confirm details before your visit or to book picnic pavilions, you can use the park's official contact information. This will help you plan your visit to Jacksonville as smoothly as possible.

There is something for everyone in this park. Sports enthusiasts can head to the tennis courts or try out the six pickleball courts. For younger visitors, there are modern play areas with slides and climbing frames. Additionally, training sessions and tournaments are regularly held on the soccer, softball, and baseball fields.

One of the park's main highlights is the boardwalk, approximately 250 meters long. It winds through picturesque wetlands, allowing visitors to safely explore the Ortega River valley. This is an ideal spot for birdwatching and observing Florida's unique flora. Those who prefer being on the water can use the launch for canoes and kayaks.

For pet owners, there is a spacious dog park with separate areas for large and small breeds. If you're planning a family lunch, there are numerous pavilions and picnic tables at your disposal. An extensive trail system is suitable for both light jogging and long bike rides in the shade of the trees.

The park is conveniently located in the southwestern part of the city at: 5198 118th St, Jacksonville, FL 32244. The easiest way to get here is by car — the drive from the city center takes about 30 minutes; simply follow 118th Street according to the signs. There are 157 parking spaces available for visitors, including additional parking at the end of the access road.

If you prefer public transportation, you can use Jacksonville Transit buses, though it is advisable to check the schedule in advance as routes may change. A taxi or rideshare from central Jacksonville is also a quick and convenient option, providing direct access to the park's main entrance.

The history of this scenic location is closely tied to the name of Lambert C. Ringhaver, a prominent businessman and founder of Ring Power Corp. Thanks to a generous memorial contribution from his family in 1977, development began on land that originally spanned only 36 acres. Lambert Ringhaver was a significant figure in Florida's community life, known for supporting education and environmental initiatives.

Over the following decades, the city gradually acquired adjacent land. Large-scale expansion occurred in several stages — in 1971, 1996, and 2000. By 2003, Ringhaver Park reached its current impressive size of 576 acres, becoming one of the region's largest multi-functional recreational hubs.

Interestingly, the park features a historical marker honoring Daniel McGirtt. A well-known resident of old Ortega in the 18th century, he participated in the American Revolution and left his mark on Florida's history. Thus, a stroll through the park is not just a nature walk, but a journey through time, recalling the rich heritage of these lands.

When planning your visit, consider what type of recreation you prefer. For a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk by the river and some birdwatching, 1–2 hours is usually sufficient. This is enough time to enjoy the tranquility and take some beautiful nature photos.

If your goal is active family fun, including playing on the playgrounds, a tennis match, or a picnic in one of the pavilions, you should set aside at least 3–4 hours. The park is large enough to spend half a day here, enjoying the variety of outdoor activities available.

Ringhaver Park welcomes guests every day of the week. You can plan your visit from early morning until evening, as the park operates during Daylight Hours.

Official operating hours: Monday – Sunday from 07:00 AM to 07:00 PM. This provides ample time for both morning runs and cozy family evenings in nature.

The area surrounding the park offers many interesting locations that will help you fully experience the local character. Exploring nearby attractions is a great addition to your time outdoors.