Faver-Dykes State Park Campground

For Florida locals yearning to experience the authentic, "old school" charm of the state's natural landscapes, Faver-Dykes State Park Campground in St. Augustine offers a serene and highly appealing retreat. Tucked away just a few miles from the bustling historic city, this state park campground provides a peaceful escape where the focus is firmly on nature, tranquility, and genuine outdoor recreation. It's a place where you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in the unique ecosystems that define Florida's wild heart.

Unlike some of the larger, more commercial campgrounds, Faver-Dykes stands out for its spacious and private campsites, often nestled beneath a shady hardwood hammock. This commitment to maintaining a natural feel, even going so far as to hand-rake sites after each departure, reflects a dedication to the camper's experience and the preservation of the park's pristine environment. It offers a refreshing change of pace for Floridians accustomed to more crowded settings, providing an ideal backdrop for relaxation, reflection, and family bonding.

Whether you're an avid RVer with a smaller rig, a tent camper, or simply someone looking for a quiet base from which to explore the greater St. Augustine area, Faver-Dykes State Park Campground delivers a consistently positive and authentic Florida outdoor adventure.

Faver-Dykes State Park Campground is located at St. Augustine, FL 32086, USA. Specifically, the campground entrance is situated about 3 miles off US-1, heading into a more rural and natural setting. While geographically close to St. Augustine, its secluded location down dirt roads helps maintain its quiet, "old Florida" atmosphere.

Navigating to the park: It's important to note, as some visitors have pointed out, that Google Maps can sometimes provide incorrect directions due to the park's slightly tucked-away nature. It is highly recommended to call the ranger station at (904) 794-0997 before your trip for the most accurate guidance, especially if you are not familiar with the area. This small step can save you time and ensure a smooth arrival.

Despite its feeling of seclusion, the park's location offers convenient access to the myriad attractions of St. Augustine, America's Oldest City. A short drive will take you to historic downtown, the Castillo de San Marcos, the St. Augustine Lighthouse, and the beautiful beaches. This makes Faver-Dykes an excellent base camp for combining a peaceful outdoor experience with cultural exploration and coastal fun, catering to the diverse interests of Florida locals.

Faver-Dykes State Park Campground provides a range of essential services and amenities designed for a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience, emphasizing the natural setting:

• Campsites: The park offers 30 campsites located in a shady hardwood hammock. These sites are available for both RVs (up to 35 feet in length) and tents.
• Hookups: Each campsite is equipped with water and electric hookups (30-amp service, with some sites offering 50 amp), ensuring convenience for modern campers.
• Site Features: Every site includes an in-ground fire circle with a grill and a picnic table, perfect for campfire cooking and outdoor meals.
• Privacy: Natural vegetation buffers between most sites provide a good sense of privacy, allowing campers to enjoy their space.
• Restrooms and Showers: A central bathhouse provides hot showers and restrooms, which are consistently praised for being clean and well-maintained, with ADA accessible amenities available.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is located within the campground for RV waste disposal.
• Pet-Friendly: Well-behaved pets are welcome in the campground, provided they are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them.
• Primitive Youth Campground: A separate area is available for primitive group tent camping, accommodating larger youth groups (up to 50 people) with a fire circle and pit toilet.
• Canoe and Kayak Rentals: Canoes and kayaks are available for rent, providing easy access to Pellicer Creek. It's advisable to call the park office in advance to reserve.
• Boat Ramp: A boat ramp is available for launching small boats, canoes, and kayaks onto Pellicer Creek.
• Drinking Water: Potable water is accessible throughout the campground.
• On-site Management: Park rangers and staff are available to assist visitors and ensure a pleasant stay.

Faver-Dykes State Park Campground offers several compelling features and highlights that make it a truly special destination for campers in Florida:

• "Old School Florida" Vibe: Visitors consistently highlight the park's ability to transport them back to a more classic, natural Florida experience. This authentic atmosphere is a significant draw for those seeking a break from over-developed areas.
• Spacious and Private Sites: Unlike many campgrounds where sites are packed closely together, Faver-Dykes offers large, private campsites with natural buffers, providing a sense of seclusion and tranquility. The practice of hand-raking sites for new campers further enhances this feeling of care and readiness.
• Pristine Pellicer Creek: The park borders Pellicer Creek, a designated Florida state canoe trail and an Aquatic Preserve. This beautiful, tranquil waterway offers exceptional opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing (both saltwater and freshwater species).
• Abundant Wildlife and Birding: The diverse ecosystems within the park, including hardwood hammocks, pine flatwoods, and salt marsh, support a rich variety of wildlife. Campers frequently spot deer, various bird species (over 100 migratory species during spring and fall), and even river otters, making it a paradise for nature observation and birding.
• Scenic Hiking and Biking Trails: The park features several well-maintained nature trails, including two half-mile loop trails and the longer 2.5-mile Hiram Faver Trail. These trails wind through different habitats, offering peaceful walks, glimpses of history, and opportunities for cycling.
• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: The restrooms and bathhouse receive consistent praise for their cleanliness and accessibility, contributing significantly to a comfortable camping experience.
• Close to St. Augustine Attractions: While offering a secluded natural feel, the park's proximity to historic St. Augustine allows campers to easily combine their outdoor retreat with visits to the city's iconic landmarks, museums, and dining.
• Quiet Riverside Park: The overall ambiance is one of peace and quiet, making it an ideal spot for relaxation, reading, or simply enjoying the sounds of nature.

For inquiries, reservations, or any assistance regarding Faver-Dykes State Park Campground, please use the following contact information:

Address: St. Augustine, FL 32086, USA

Phone: (904) 794-0997

Mobile Phone: +1 904-794-0997

For making reservations, it is highly recommended to use the official Florida State Parks reservation system. Reservations can typically be made up to 11 months in advance, which is advisable given the popularity of state park campgrounds. You can visit the Florida State Parks reservations website or call their central reservation line at 1-800-326-3521 (TDD 888-433-0287).

As noted, calling the ranger station directly before your visit can be particularly helpful for directions, especially since some GPS systems may provide less accurate routes to the park's secluded entrance.

Faver-Dykes State Park Campground is an exceptional choice for Florida locals, offering a perfect blend of natural immersion and convenient access to one of the state's most beloved cities. For Floridians seeking an authentic outdoor experience, far from the typical tourist crowds but still within easy reach, this campground is a true gem. It embodies the "Real Florida," providing a tranquil setting where families can connect with nature, children can explore safely, and individuals can find peace amidst the beautiful, preserved landscapes.

The park's dedication to maintaining private, well-kept sites and clean facilities makes it a comfortable option for both tent and RV campers. Its location allows locals to enjoy the best of both worlds: quiet mornings spent birding or paddling on Pellicer Creek, followed by short drives to explore the historical wonders of St. Augustine. It's a testament to Florida's commitment to preserving its natural heritage and offering accessible outdoor recreation. For a rejuvenating escape that feels both familiar and deeply enriching, Faver-Dykes State Park Campground is a top recommendation for any local seeking genuine Florida charm.

Faver-Dykes State Park Campground

St. Augustine, FL 32086, USA