Ed Austin Regional Park

History and Overview

Nestled in the Arlington area of Jacksonville, Florida, Ed Austin Regional Park spans a generous 144 acres of public green space. Formerly known as District II Regional Park, it was rechristened in May 2005 to honor former Jacksonville Mayor Ed Austin.

The City of Jacksonville snagged this property in 1994, which had a previous life as the Dunes Golf course. This golfing past explains why you'll discover some surprising hills throughout the park - these are actually ancient sand dunes, a refreshing break from Jacksonville's typically flat landscape.

Disc Golf

A major attraction at Ed Austin is the Fore Palms Disc Golf Club, considered one of Jacksonville's top disc golf courses. The 18-hole course features a mix of open fairways and more technical tree-lined holes that provide challenges for both beginners and experienced players.

With three different tee pads for varying skill levels and regularly rotated pin locations, the course stays fresh and engaging. If you're new to the sport, don't worry - the regular players are known to be welcoming and often happy to show beginners the ropes. The course hosts tournaments and weekly meetups that have fostered a tight-knit community of disc golf enthusiasts.

Trails and Landscape

Feel like stretching your legs? The park features an extensive network of walking and biking trails, including a 1.75-mile paved path that loops around the perimeter. Most of these trails wind through shaded areas, which is particularly nice during hot Florida summers.

The abundant tree canopy creates cool, dappled pathways fantastic for morning jogs or evening strolls, making this a go-to spot for locals looking to get their steps in without melting in the heat.

Sports Facilities

Sports enthusiasts will feel right at home with the park's array of lighted facilities. Baseball diamonds, soccer fields, football fields, and basketball courts are all available and regularly host community leagues.

The skate park is another popular spot, where you'll find everyone from kids just learning to ollie to experienced skaters working on their latest tricks. These facilities are regularly used for local athletics and community sports programs throughout the year.

Playground Areas

Kids have plenty of room to burn off energy at the recently renovated playground areas. Instead of the usual sand or mulch that finds its way into shoes and socks, these playgrounds feature artificial turf surfacing - a thoughtful touch parents will appreciate.

The fully fenced play areas provide peace of mind while children explore swings, slides, climbing structures, and even an outdoor xylophone. With equipment designed for various age groups, it's an ideal spot for families with children at different developmental stages.

Dog Area

Four-legged family members haven't been forgotten! The park includes dedicated dog areas separated into sections for small pups (under 25 pounds) and their larger counterparts. These wooded, off-leash spaces give dogs the freedom to run, play, and socialize in a secure environment.

You'll find all the essentials here - water stations, waste bag dispensers, trash cans, and shaded picnic tables where you can relax while your dog makes new friends.

Amenities and Community Features

Scattered across the park are various picnic areas with tables and shelters, ideal for family gatherings or casual outdoor meals. The park is also home to a community center run by the Police Athletic League (PAL), offering additional recreational and educational programs for local residents.

Restrooms are available near the playground and sports fields, but they can sometimes be a bit tricky to find and maintenance quality varies depending on when you visit.

Special Events

All year long, Ed Austin Regional Park transforms into a hub for community gatherings. From sports tournaments and 5K races to seasonal celebrations, there's often something happening here that brings neighbors together.

The park's Fourth of July fireworks display has become something of a local tradition, drawing families from across Jacksonville for an evening of celebration under the summer sky.