Entrance to Fort Clinch on Amelia Island FL
A stay on Amelia Island wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Civil-War era Fort Clinch. Located on the northern tip of Amelia Island, and only 10 minutes by car from historic downtown Fernandina Beach, the expansive waterfront vistas from the fort are spectacular.
Fort Clinch is one of the most well-preserved 19th century forts in the country, and is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Amelia Island. Fort Clinch State Park offers a half-mile-long fishing pier, a vast state park with nearly 8,400 feet of shoreline, and 1,150 acres of moss-draped live oaks, and coastal grasses. The 1847 Fort at the mouth of the St. Mary’s River was built to protect Fernandina Harbor’s deep water port.
Daily tours complete with period re-enactments depicting garrison life bring the fort to life for visitors. Sunbathing, swimming, and beach-combing are popular coastal activities all summer long. 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.
Civil War era is recreated at Fort Clinch State Park
Life during the Civil War era is recreated at Fort Clinch State Park the first weekend each month. Activities centered around 1864, include black powder artillery demonstrations, marching drills, and blacksmith demonstrations. Visitors can see these special living history garrisons from 9 am to 5 pm each Saturday of the first weekend of the month and 9 am until noon on the first Sunday. A special evening candlelight tour of Fort Clinch is also held the first weekend Saturday night each month and costs $3 per person.
It's a ten minute drive from Historic Fernandina Beach to Fort Clinch State Park
Fort Clinch State Park is located at 2601 Atlantic Avenue, Fernandina Beach. Call 904-277-7274 for more information.
Admission Fees:
$6.00 per vehicle. Limit 2-8 people per vehicle.
$4.00 Single Occupant Vehicle.
$2.00 Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.