TIMUCUAN PRESERVE BOAT LAUNCHES
The only boat launch within the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve that is owned by the National Park Service is at Cedar Point, though there are many others at the Florida state and Jacksonville city parks within the Preserve boundaries. The Cedar Point launch is the only one I personally visited, and this is where I began a kayaking trip into the salt marshes.
The following is a list of boat launches within the Preserve:
ALIMACANI BOAT RAMP
Sandy/beach launch site, no fee. Suitable for hand launched watercraft, jet skis, and small fishing boats (jon boats). Launches into the Fort George River.
BIG TALBOT ISLAND STATE PARK
Concrete boat ramp suitable for all watercraft. Requires a small fee to launch, though no fee to enter the park. Grants access to the Intercoastal Waterway (Sisters Creek), Nassau Sound, and the Atlantic Ocean.
CEDAR POINT
National Park Service boat launch. No fees. The park brochure shows a Kayak/Canoe launch icon for this launch point, but I was there and personally saw motorboats launching into the creek. There is a concrete ramp and room to park vehicles with trailers. When departing, you can go straight or branch off to the right. Straight barely has enough water for a kayak to make it through. Motorboats take off to the right, and I advise everyone go this way.
FORT GEORGE ISLAND CULTURAL STATE PARK
A dirt boat ramp is located behind the Ribault Club and can be used to launch canoes, kayaks, and small flat bottom boats. There is no fee.
KAYAK AMELIA
Kayak Amelia is an authorized canoe/kayak outfitter located within Big Talbot State Park. In addition to renting equipment, the company offers guided tours. For a $1 fee you can launch your own canoe or kayak into Simpson Creek.
PUMPKIN HILL KAYAK LAUNCH
Part of Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park. Free launch site, but you must carry your watercraft 200 yards. There is no fee to enter the park.
SISTERS CREEK MARINA
Jacksonville city boat ramp. Best suited for motorized boats due to heavy boat traffic in the area. No fee.
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Last updated on March 27, 2021
