Fort Clinch State Park

Fort Clinch State Park is located on the northern end of Amelia Island, Florida in Fernandina Beach. Amelia Island is in the very northeastern part of Florida

2601 Atlantic Avenue

Fernandina Beach, Florida 32034

Phone: 904-277-7274

View Fort Clinch State Park in a larger map

A part of the park system since 1935, Fort Clinch is one of the most well-preserved 19th century forts in the country. Although no battles were fought here, it was garrisoned during both the Civil and Spanish-American wars. During the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps began preserving and rebuilding many of the structures of the abandoned fort. Daily tours with period reenactors depicting garrison life bring the fort to life for visitors. Sunbathing, swimming, and beach combing are popular activities at the beach. Anglers can fish from the pier or take advantage of excellent surf fishing. Hikers and bicyclists can enjoy a six-mile trail through the park. Self-guided nature trails provide opportunities to learn about and observe native plants and wildlife. A full-facility campground and a youth camping area provide overnight accommodations. Located north of the city of Fernandina Beach, off State Road A1A. read more…

Fort Clinch State Park

Fort Clinch State Park has a great display of period and original equipment in the rooms throughout the Fort. The architecture is unique with its clay brick construction barrel vaulted hallways and the elaborate cathedral ceilings in some of the rooms.

The site on Amelia Island at the entrance to the St. Marys River and the Cumberland Sound has been occupied by various military troops Since 1736. Construction of a fort, later named Fort Clinch, was begun in 1847. A pentagonal brick fort with both inner and outer walls, Fort Clinch was a safe haven for blockade runners during the Civil War. Briefly occupied by Confederate forces, its recapture by Federal troops in early 1862 gave the Union control of the adjacent Georgia and Florida coasts. The fort was used in 1898 during the Spanish-American War, but was abandoned until the Civil Conservation Corps (CCC) restored it in the 1930s. A Florida State Park, Fort Clinch is interpreted as the base of Union operations in the area throughout the Civil War.

Fort Clinch Blacksmith Workshop

Fort Clinch State Park offers many amenities including…

• Pier Fishing
• Sunbathing
• Hiking and Biking Trails
• Surf Fishing
• Camping
• Birding and Shelling
• Picnicking
• Swimming
• Bicycling
• Beach Combing
• Wildlife Viewing

Fort Clinch Amelia River

References and Links

• Florida Online Park Guide
• Florida Greenways and Trails
• Wikipedia
• Florida State Parks Guide
• National Register of Historic Places