Top 15 Must-See Attractions in Macclenny, Florida

The seat of Baker County lies within a landscape of pine flatwoods and cypress swamps, approximately thirty minutes west of downtown Jacksonville.

Interstate 10 bypasses Macclenny to the south; however, there are numerous compelling reasons to exit at Exit 335. One such attraction is the outstanding outdoor museum at Heritage Park Village. This ensemble of historic structures provides a vivid representation of various phases of Baker County’s history.

Despite the proximity of a major city, Macclenny offers abundant natural experiences. Visitors can camp along the sandy banks of the St Marys River, explore the site of Florida’s largest Civil War battle, or venture through the wilderness on an ATV.

1. Heritage Park Village

Source: Ebyabe / Wikimedia

For first-time visitors to Macclenny, it is advisable to prioritize this open-air historical attraction. The inception of Heritage Park Village can be traced back to community efforts in the 1980s to preserve the McClenny Train Depot (1924) from demolition.

This depot was relocated to this picturesque park and has since been accompanied by a variety of original and replica structures from across Baker County.

Notable examples include the Blue Haven Restaurant (1947), preserved in a 1950s style, and an extensive collection of local artifacts showcased in the Gilbert’s Trading Post exhibit.

Beyond being a mere museum, Heritage Park Village is renowned for its events, which encompass holiday festivals, an outdoor movie series, and even circus performances. It is also a favored locale for relaxation and leisurely walks, often hosting weddings.

2. Jennings State Forest

A short drive to the southeast invites you into 25,000 acres of protected wilderness, showcasing over 15 diverse biological communities.

These encompass various ecosystems, ranging from sandhills to dome swamps, blackwater streams, and slope forests. When departing from Macclenny, the North Fork Recreation Area is arguably your best option, located along the spring-fed North Fork of Black Creek, ideal for swimming and fishing.

A diverse array of wading birds, as well as raccoons, otters, and shy alligators, have been observed in this area. An additional nearby attraction is the Long Branch Recreation Area, replete with extensive horse trails winding through the pine forests.

3. Baker County Fair

Fall marks the celebration of the area’s rural character with the Baker County Fair, held in the northern section of the city. Known as the “Biggest Little Fair in Florida,” this event significantly exceeds expectations.

As anticipated, the fair features a comprehensive lineup of 4H and FFA activities, primarily emphasizing beef and swine, alongside horticulture and home arts displays, and an annual Queen Pageant.

Of course, a midway will feature many rides and games, complemented by lively entertainment, a rodeo, and the beloved fair cuisine.

Moreover, keep an eye on the event calendar at the fairgrounds, where car shows and NBHA races occur throughout the year.

4. Osceola National Forest

Source: Robert J Richter / shutterstock

Just a few miles west of Macclenny along I-10, one enters over 200,000 acres of protected wilderness, primarily comprising pine flatwoods and cypress swamps. Before its designation as a national forest under Herbert Hoover’s proclamation in 1931, this land served as a crucial source for pine timber and turpentine.

The forest’s trails are popular among hikers, cyclists, wildlife observers, and amateur photographers. For those preferring to remain dry, long stretches of elevated boardwalks provide a platform for observing diverse wildlife.

The Fanny Bay Boardwalk Interpretive Trail is particularly accessible from Macclenny. This 1.1-mile loop traverses cypress swamps and is conveniently located near a rest stop off I-10.

Nearby, one can also access the Florida National Scenic Trail, which extends for 28 miles through the forest.

5. St. Mary’s Shoals

On the pristine sandy banks of the St Marys River lies a charming recreational area spanning over 2,600 acres.

In a setting reminiscent of old Florida, St Mary’s Shoals accommodates both motorized and non-motorized activities. On one side, over 24 miles of trails are designated for ATVs and other Off-Highway Vehicles.

Conversely, the opposite side exclusively caters to hiking, horseback riding, and cycling, boasting more than 22 miles of dedicated trails.

This landscape is a pleasure to navigate, featuring mature woodlands, downed trees, and abundant wildlife. Notably, deer and wild hogs, in addition to black bears, have been spotted within St Mary’s Shoals.

6. Macclenny Memorial Park

The city’s other municipal park is situated on the northwest side of downtown. One notable aspect of Macclenny Memorial Park is the illuminated trail equipped with exercise stations.

This trail remains accessible 24/7, while other amenities operate only during daylight hours. Therefore, if one intends to exercise in the evening, this option traces the park’s northern section for approximately half a mile.

The park also features two picnic pavilions, a gazebo, a children’s playground, and a pond complete with a dock.

7. Island Oaks RV Resort

Located on 121 scenic acres just five minutes away in Glen St Mary, the Island Oaks RV Resort opened its doors recently.

The resort offers around 400 fully-appointed RV sites, providing amenities such as free Wi-Fi and daily trash collection. RV rentals are also available, along with an array of facilities designed to enhance one’s stay.

These amenities include a year-round heated swimming pool, a hot tub, an arcade, mini-golf, seasonal swimming lake, and a fishing lake. The resort also caters to various sports, including basketball and pickleball, in addition to a fitness center and a playground for children.

8. Jacksonville Baldwin Rail Trail

Located at Brandy Branch Road, just five minutes east of Macclenny, one can access the western trailhead for the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail.

Stretching over 14 miles to Imeson Road in Jacksonville, this trail occupies a 100-foot-wide corridor, containing a 12-foot paved section along an abandoned railbed originally installed by the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad at the beginning of the 20th century.

Additionally, there are parallel trails designated for horseback riding and off-road biking. The route navigates through picturesque rural landscapes predominantly comprised of hydric pine flatwoods and wetland mixed forests.

An intriguing detail along the trail is the site of Camp Milton, which served as Florida’s largest encampment of Confederate Forces during the Civil War in 1864, housing over 8,000 troops.

9. St Mary’s Cove

Marking the boundary between Florida and Georgia, the St Marys River presents stunning scenery. This waterway meanders gently past pine trees, giving the clear water a unique tannic hue, while the banks feature perfect white sandy beaches.

This idyllic setting awaits you at St Mary’s Cove, a riverfront RV campground in Macclenny. In fact, the beach here is regarded as the finest in Baker County, while the entire area is enveloped in lush pine and oak woods, perfect for re-engaging with nature.

While staying at the campground, visitors can launch kayaks onto the river and enjoy picnics beneath majestic live oaks.

10. Old Baker County Courthouse

The most distinguished architectural masterpiece in downtown Macclenny is the former Baker County courthouse, constructed in 1908.

This building, designed in the Colonial Revival style, served its original function until 1948. The current courthouse located at 339 E Macclenny Ave was established as part of a WPA project that began in 1941.

The original courthouse remains an exquisite structure, featuring octagonal wings and a cupola, reflecting the area’s transition from subsistence farming to industrial agriculture in the early 20th century.

Today, the courthouse houses the Emily Taber Public Library, a valuable resource for the Macclenny community, particularly benefiting families with young children, as it offers a delightful children’s section and a range of programs including storytimes and seasonal events.

11. Olustee Battlefield State Park

Source: Kevin Winkler Photography / shutterstock

Approximately 15 miles west of Macclenny, Florida’s largest Civil War battle unfolded. This Confederate victory, the Battle of Olustee, occurred on February 20, 1864, and was notably bloody.

The casualties sustained by both sides represented some of the highest percentages of the entire war. By the conclusion of the battle, one-third of Truman Seymour’s Union force of 5,500 was either killed, injured, or unaccounted for.

In 1912, the battlefield was designated as Florida’s first historic site, allowing visitors to retrace the events of that day along an informative mile-long interpretive loop, which delves into the buildup and military strategies employed.

Annually, a large-scale reenactment of the Battle of Olustee takes place in the state park around the anniversary of the battle.

12. The Coop

Source: The Coop / Facebook

Recognized for its wing dishes, this establishment opened on W Macclenny Ave in 2014, quickly gaining acclaim as a destination for delectable comfort food, offered at reasonable prices within a cozy, rustic setting.

The wings are available in both boneless and traditional styles, offered in a variety of flavors, including classic options such as Buffalo, BBQ, Lemon Pepper, Cajun Ranch, and Honey Mustard. To maintain an authentic experience, sweet tea is the recommended accompaniment.

However, do note that unlike most other eateries in the vicinity, The Coop remains closed on Saturdays and Sundays, necessitating a weekday visit if your schedule permits.

13. Sixth Street Steakhouse

In spite of its name, this establishment located along S Sixth St, not far from the interstate, functions more as a diner with a Southern flair.

Steaks are indeed featured on the menu, including sirloin, T-bone, filet mignon, and prime rib, all prepared to a precise temperature. Furthermore, a vast selection of breakfast items, sandwiches, Southern-style seafood, burgers, soups & salads, and shareable appetizers are offered. The salad bar is particularly noteworthy, as is the traditional banana pudding, which provides an authentic dessert conclusion.

If you arrive early with a hearty appetite, it is advisable to consider the extensive Sixth Street Breakfast, which includes ham, eggs, grits, and toast.

14. Baker County Veterans Memorial Park

Just a couple of minutes west on US 90 from Macclenny lies another stunning park. Nestled on the outskirts of the city, this area feels remarkably secluded and serves as an ideal spot for a picnic on a sunny day.

The park is located along the South Prong of the St Marys River, featuring a sizable lake equipped with four fishing docks and pavilions dotted along its shores.

True to its name, Veterans Memorial Park hosts events organized by the Baker County Veterans Council, which include fishing derbies and Memorial Day ceremonies.

15. Jacksonville

Downtown Macclenny is conveniently situated just a few miles from Jacksonville’s city limits. It is worth mentioning that Jacksonville is the largest city in the United States by area, extending from here all the way to the Atlantic coast, approximately 40 miles away.

Downtown Jacksonville can be accessed within half an hour, thereby placing a multitude of regional attractions within easy reach. A cultural highlight is the Cummer Museum of Art, renowned for its exquisite gardens along the St. Johns River.

The longest and most celebrated river in Florida meets the Atlantic at Jacksonville and is best viewed from the Riverwalk or via the St. Johns River Taxi. Additionally, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens represents a prime family attraction, alongside breathtaking natural vistas awaiting exploration.

Moreover, do not overlook the remarkable estuarine habitats found within the Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve, as well as the expansive sandy beaches along the Atlantic at Jacksonville Beaches.