Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

Jacksonville, Florida, United States

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The Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens in Florida covers over 120 acres of diverse ecosystems including wetlands, upland hardwood forests, pine flatwoods, and tidal marshes.

Originally a mining site from 1941 to 1961, the land was later acquired by the city and left to regenerate naturally until local conservationists formed a nonprofit in 2004 to develop it into a public arboretum.

Officially opened in 2008, it features seven hiking trails, a 2-acre lake, botanical gardens with native and exotic plants, and educational signage. The arboretum serves as a community space for nature appreciation, environmental education, and recreation, hosting wildlife such as turtles, birds, armadillos, and hawks, and offering visitors a peaceful retreat from urban life. It continues to grow with community support and grants while promoting conservation and ecological awareness.