Alpine Groves Park

This wooded park on the bluffs of the St. Johns River was once a flourishing citrus grove. Over a mile of paved walking and biking trails meander through upland pine/hardwood forest near the entrance and riparian hardwood forest down by the river, where Louisiana Waterthrush, Prothonotary Warbler and Blackburnian Warbler may be encountered during spring and fall migration. Wander among the stately live oak trees and historic 19th century-era structures by the bluff, searching for songbird migrants like American Redstart and Ruby-crowned Kinglet. Or just relax and bird from the big swings under the oaks or the new observation pier – the scenic river vista alone is worth the trip. The upper and lower butterfly gardens attract Ruby-throated Hummingbirds between April and August as well as Southern Hairstreak and Zebra Swallowtail butterflies. For the more adventurous birder, a canoe/kayak launch structure is provided. Bring your own boat and head out onto the river to search for Wood Ducks, both species of night heron, Bald Eagle and Spotted Sandpipers.