Yellow Bluff Fort Historic State Park

A Slice of Civil War History

Tucked away in Jacksonville, Florida, Yellow Bluff Fort Historic State Park might be small at just 1.3 acres, but it packs in some fascinating Civil War history. Sitting near where the St. Johns River meets the Atlantic, this spot once served as a strategic military position, armed with heavy artillery to guard river access.

Despite what the name suggests, you won't find an actual fort here. The site instead features T-shaped earthwork fortifications built in 1862 that changed hands between Confederate and Union forces throughout the war. Funny how history works sometimes - a "fort" that wasn't really a fort at all.

Military Footprints

At its busiest, this encampment housed over 250 soldiers. Today, the preserved earthworks and interpretive displays offer a window into Civil War-era military life.

A stone monument placed in 1950 by the United Daughters of the Confederacy marks the site's historical significance. Several replica cannons in various conditions are positioned around the grounds, representing the artillery that once protected this crucial vantage point.

What You'll Find

Nestled in a residential area off New Berlin Road, the park offers a modest parking area with just a handful of spaces. Need a quiet spot for lunch? A few picnic tables sit under the shade of gorgeous live oak trees.

One particularly impressive oak showcases its exposed roots along the trail - nature's own sculpture garden. A short nature trail loops around the earthworks, making for an easy exploration.

Beyond the Battlefield

Yellow Bluff Fort holds significance beyond its defensive role. It's also an important piece of African American history.

Companies of the U.S. Colored Troops were stationed here in 1864, marking it as a noteworthy site in the narrative of Black military service during the Civil War.

Before You Go

This is definitely a no-frills historical site - you won't find restrooms or playgrounds here. The quiet, secluded atmosphere makes it ideal for a brief historical visit or a peaceful picnic away from the hustle and bustle.

Note that the park sits very close to neighboring homes. If you're exploring Jacksonville and want to make a day of it, consider pairing Yellow Bluff Fort with nearby Dames Point Park for a more complete outing.