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With its privileged location in the northeastern corner of the state, the city of Jacksonville, FL is not only a great destination by itself, but also an excellent base to explore nearby nature reserves, state parks, and national forests. If you like birdwatching or other outdoor activities and are looking for places to visit, these are some beautiful spots you can reach in less than two hours from the Jacksonville downtown area. more 3 Favorite Spots for Birdwatching Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge Established in 1937, Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is one of the largest and most beautiful nature reserves in the region, spanning over 400,000 acres of territory across the states of Georgia and Florida. Welcoming almost half a million visitors each year, this wildlife refuge offers plenty of opportunities for birding, wildlife watching, hiking, fishing, canoeing, and boating. This nature reserve is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and can be visited year-round between 7:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. The visitor center and the main entrance of Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge are located about 60 miles northwest of downtown Jacksonville, a distance that can be covered in a little over an hour by car along routes GA-121 and GA-23. Known for its abundance of animal and plant species, this beautiful refuge is home to large populations of red-cockaded woodpeckers, egrets, herons, wood storks, brown creepers, and European starlings. 2. Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve Covering over 46,000 acres of wetlands along the northeastern coast of Florida, Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve receives a little under one and a half million visitors each year, making it one of the most popular nature reserves in the entire state. This beautiful spot is home to a vast array of different bird species, including ospreys, bald eagles, northern harriers, reddish egrets, gray kingbirds, ovenbirds, blue-headed vireos, and worm-eating warblers. Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve is located just 13 miles east of downtown Jacksonville, making it possible to reach it in as little as 20 minutes by car under regular traffic conditions. Besides birding and wildlife watching, this expansive nature reserve is an excellent spot for other activities including kayaking, boating, hiking, and picnicking. This place can be visited free of charge and is open between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. 3. Osceola National Forest Established in the early 1930s and covering an area of about 200,000 acres, Osceola National Forest is another popular spot for birding and wildlife watching in the Jacksonville Area. Home to large populations of sandhill cranes, red-cockaded woodpeckers, prothonotary warblers, and snowy egrets, this national forest is a great day trip destination for solo travelers, families, and groups of friends. Getting here from downtown Jacksonville takes about 50 minutes by car, driving west along route I-10. If you are looking for a new vehicle to visit the best nature reserves in the area, stop by Tom Bush Volkswagen. Check out our different models of new and used cars, learn more about our attractive financing plans, and find the vehicle that best suits your needs.

Jacksonville, FL, is a coastal city with a population of over 800,000 people. There are lots of things to do in the city, including enjoying its 22 miles of beaches, going on a fishing expedition, and exploring historic neighborhoods. Its perfect location also makes it an ideal place for day trips to neighboring cities. Want to see more beaches? Visit the car racing capital or maybe explore state parks? Let's look at places to visit for a quick trip. more 5 Fun Day Trips You Can Take From Jacksonville, FL 1. Salt Springs Salt Springs is in the heart of the Ocala National Forest and is home to a wide variety of wildlife and plant life, including dozens of endangered species like the Eastern Indigo Snake and Bald Cypress Trees. There are a variety of activities to enjoy, such as canoeing, kayaking, fishing in the basin, or hiking through the forest to view its diverse ecosystem. Salt Springs has been featured in films like Tarzan and Jurassic Park III. 2. Daytona Beach Also known as "The World's Most Famous Beach", this city is famous not only for its beaches but also for being the capital of car racing. You can spend the day surfing, boating, or fishing. Stroll the pier and boardwalk, then take a tour of the Daytona International Speedway that includes the Motorsports Hall of Fame America. You'll also find the Jackie Robinson Ballpark, a local stadium and now a shrine for the late Hall of Famer. 3. Amelia Island This popular vacation destination is home to the prestigious Amelia Island Plantation. It also has many other luxurious hotels, golf courses, and beaches. If you're a history lover, you'll enjoy Fort Clinch State Park, where you can learn about the life of a Union soldier while touring through the fort's rooms, grounds, and galleries. You'll also find the Big Talbot Island State Park and the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve here. 4. Cross Creek Cross Creek is a historic site in Florida that was once the home of Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, author of the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, " The Yearling". Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park commemorates her life and work. The state park offers an interpretive center with displays of her life, as well as a one-mile hike that leads to the sites mentioned in the book. 5. De Leon Springs Take a trip to De Leon Springs, home of The Sugar Mill Restaurant. Open for breakfast and lunch, this restaurant is a century-old replica of the 1830s mill that once stood here. In the cooler months, restaurant patrons can relax next to a crackling fire while their food is prepared. You'll also see The Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge and its exhibits on native wildlife. Don't forget to book a Fountain of Youth ECO/History tour. 6. Gainesville Gainesville is home to many of Florida's top industries, including the aerospace industry. You'll also find the University of Florida, which has one of the best STEM programs in the state. Browse for art and antiques in the quaint town of Micanopy. Don't miss the Florida Museum of Natural History where you can witness birds and butterflies flying free in the Butterfly Rainforest. Jacksonville may have many things to boast about, but you'll find other places that you'll also enjoy nearby. Before you go on that day trip, schedule an oil change and tire check at Tom Bush Volkswagen. We might even recommend other places you'd be interested in.

Situated on the mouth of St. John's River, Jacksonville, FL sits at the top of the list for fishing spots in the southeast region, with offerings for every type of angler. From deep-sea fishing to dropping a line off one of the city's many piers, this locale has something for everyone. more 6 Favorite Fishing Spots Near Jacksonville, FL 1. St. John's River Spanning 310 miles, St. John's River boasts countless places to drop a line; with both saltwater and freshwater options available, anglers everywhere name this the top spot to fish. You can find a variety of species, including trout, redfish, tarpon, and Spanish Mackerel to name a few. Further inland, you might catch freshwater fish like bass, catfish, and crappie. 2. Nassau Sound Fishing Bridge A one-mile pier that crosses the Nassau Sound, George Crady Bridge is another prime location. This spot is geared for novice and experienced anglers alike, with a cleaning station at the north end; you can also net your own bait if you prefer. This pedestrian-only bridge can be accessed via Amelia Park and requires a $2 park entrance fee. 3. Lake Ponte Vedra Lake Ponte Vedra is located within the Guana River WMA. While the north side of the lake is occasionally closed to fishermen for hunting or drawdown, you can always get bites on the south side with 24-hour access. Beware of dropping stringers here, as they attract gators. 4. Intracoastal Waterway Running nearly 1,100 miles from Norfolk, VA to Miami, FL, the Intracoastal Waterway offers a wide range of places to fish- from wetlands to the various marshes and creeks along the way. If you are looking for views and tranquility, you should drop a line at the Dutton or Castaway Island Preserves. 5. The Gulf Stream Just sixty miles off the Florida coast, The Gulf Stream is the perfect place for deep-sea fishing. This current boasts a variety of fish, large and small, depending on the season. Species found in the Gulf Stream include snapper, grouper, cobia, and much more. There are plenty of boat charters that know all the best places if you don't have a vessel of your own. 6. Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier It's not uncommon for anglers to be seen dropping a line off the local piers along the beach. Whether you are a novice or more experienced angler, you will enjoy fishing off the Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier. You can get the experience of deep-sea fishing without the cost of chartering a boat. As an added perk, you do not need a saltwater fishing license; however, the pier charges a $3 fishing fee with a maximum of three rods allowed per person. Once the appropriate license is obtained, you are ready to enjoy all the fishing Jacksonville, FL has to offer. If you need a way to get there, stop by Tom Bush Volkswagen. We'll have the right vehicle to get you anywhere you want to go- even those secret spots you don't want to share. Happy fishing!

Jacksonville, FL is a popular destination for those that love the sun, surfing, and beautiful scenery. There are tons of awesome parks in the city, offering amazing facilities so you can enjoy the outdoors in a variety of ways. more 6 Wonderful Parks to Visit Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Memorial Park As you would expect from an area that was designed by the same architects responsible for Central Park in New York, Memorial Park is a special and beautiful place. Located right by the river, this scenic spot is ideal for walking, running, or relaxing in the large grassy areas with a book. The centerpiece of the park is a striking bronze statue, installed to commemorate those that lost their lives during WWI. 2. Ringhaver Park This lovely city park is a great place for a hike in nature. There are several trails to choose from. Both paved and dirt trails wind their way through the glorious green woods, offering many opportunities to take some great photos. There are two well-equipped and clean playgrounds for children of all ages to enjoy. Sports fans will also find their needs catered for with soccer fields, a baseball diamond, and tennis courts all available to use here. 3. Dog Wood Park This roomy, fenced area is one of the best places in the city to bring your four-legged friends! You will surely love watching your pet swim and splash around in the lake. There are several items for your dog to play with dotted around the park, like tubes and tires. A separate enclosure for small dogs means that all breeds are welcome here. Be aware that you must pay to access the facilities, with a daily pass (of $11) or monthly and yearly memberships available. 4. Kathryn Abbey Hannah Park It's easy to see why locals and visitors adore this action-packed park. The camping grounds here are affordable and well-maintained, allowing you to spend a few nights enjoying everything this place has to offer. The gorgeous beach is just a few steps away and has a section dedicated to surfing. There are miles and miles of trails teeming with wildlife to explore and lakes stocked for fishing. This is the perfect place to come with your family for a memorable weekend! 5. Losco Regional Park Losco Park is the perfect destination for families looking for a place where their kids can burn off some excess energy. The unique playground includes a fun and challenging obstacle course for adventurous children to climb. The popular splash pad is a great place to cool off and frolic on hot days. 6. Mandarin Park Here is another excellent area on our list that is on the banks of St Johns River. Mandarin Park has a fishing dock and a boat ramp for those wishing to take to the water. This is also the ideal location for a picnic as the park is furnished with many covered tables and metal BBQ grills. Check out the inventory of new and used vehicles on offer at Tom Bush Volkswagen today!

Some of the country's best campgrounds are near Jacksonville, Florida.  If you are looking for a great place to camp near Jacksonville, FL check out these five awesome spots! more 4 of the Best Campgrounds Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Little Talbot Island State Park Little Talbot Island State Park offers a quiet, relaxing getaway with 40 campsites and wooded nature trails.  Beaches are on one side of the island, while salt marsh makes up most of the other areas. Located between Jacksonville and Amelia Island, the park's quiet, relaxing atmosphere makes it perfect for anyone looking to spend some time away from their busy lives! Little Talbot Island is a barrier island in Northeast Florida. The site has miles of beach, bike trails, and incredible wildlife like river otters and bobcats. The undisturbed beauty of the park and its habitats is truly a treasure. You can enjoy birdwatching, fishing, hiking, and kayaking, or you can just relax on the sand and watch the surf. 2. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park You don't have to camp out in a remote wilderness to have an adventure. Head on down to Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park in Jacksonville instead, where there's plenty of fun for kids and their furry friends! You'll find more than 20 miles of trails to explore, and the paths lead across sandy beaches and through cool forests. The kids will love the children's splash park nearby--proving there is something for everyone. If you love the water, take some time out on the freshwater lakes at Hanna Park. The 60-acre freshwater lake is excellent for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. You can rent a paddleboat, kayak, or other gear at the park. Leashed pets are permitted at all times, so have them come along too! 3. Huguenot Memorial Park Huguenot Memorial Park is a 295-acre park with over 70 campsites. The park, which is almost entirely surrounded by water, has waterfront campsites, boating, surfing, and fishing. Huguenot allows you to drive up on the beach, but park officials strongly recommend that you take a four-wheel-drive vehicle. The park has truly stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding wildlife. The park has a bird observation deck which makes it phenomenal for observing sea ducks and loons. Take a break under a seaside pavilion or cook on a grill in one of the picnic areas. Huguenot Memorial Park is one of the best ways to enjoy the great outdoors. 4.  Flamingo Lake RV Resort Enjoy upscale camping at the Flamingo Lake RV Resort. The resort, located in Jacksonville, has 288 RV sites and includes furnished cabins, a restaurant, and a store. Flamingo Lake also has swimming, a lake, and fishing at the resort. Amenities include electricity, laundry facilities, a fitness center, cable, and wireless internet. If you want an adventure or just want some time away, these campsites are perfect destinations. When you return from camping, stop by Tom Bush Volkswagen and check out our new cars. We'll be happy to provide information and schedule a test drive.

The beautiful weather and picturesque shores of Jacksonville, FL make it a great destination for beach lovers. Are you excited to discover new sights and visit the best beaches in town? Take a look at our top picks and see which ones suit your taste. more 6 of the Best Beaches Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Atlantic Beach Get to know the relaxed, laid-back coastal community near Jacksonville and visit Atlantic Beach for some fun. Here you can meet many locals and tourists who are into outdoor activities like surfing, cycling, golfing and more. It's a family-friendly place with casual upscale dining options and clean, well-maintained areas where you can stroll and walk barefoot. 2. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park Beach Kids and adventure lovers will love Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park. It is an oceanfront site with areas for picnics and camping, together with a 60-acre lake for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. The beach has lovely, 1.5-mile-long sugar-white sand and is home to many surfers and beach lovers. With ample space in between campsites, you'll enjoy your privacy and the overall experience here. 3. Ponte Vedra Beach Ponte Vedra Beach is a popular choice for an upscale beach experience. It offers breathtaking views of towering dunes, luxurious hotels, and expensive beach rentals. If you fancy early morning walks or evening walks by the shore, this is the place for you. The beach stretches out for miles and is clean, well-maintained, and not too crowded. You'll love the soft pale sand with unobstructed views of the beach at Ponte Vedra, a destination that's perfect for solo travelers or couples. 4. Fernandina Beach Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island has plenty of space for families who want to picnic, play, and relax. This laid-back, uncrowded spot is an ideal destination for those who want to enjoy simple island life. Boat and kayak tours are also available, so you can see up close what the area has to offer. And with many different options for shopping and dining, you won't run out of new things to try during your stay. 5. Mayport Naval Station Beach Would you like to visit a secluded beach and explore one of Jacksonville's hidden gems? Then you should check out Mayport Naval Station Beach and discover piles of white sand, shark's teeth, and incredible shells. You can bring these small items home together with happy memories of running on the beach and splashing in the waves. Dogs are welcome on the beach, too. 6. Little Talbot Beaches On Little Talbot Island, you'll discover some of the most pristine beaches in Florida. If you're looking for clean, white-sand beaches and beautiful dunes, you should visit this place and check out the park with salt marshes and coastal forests. When it comes to discovering the beauty of nature, there are plenty of beaches to explore near Jacksonville. Which one of these locations makes you excited to visit? We'd love to help you get wherever you wish to. Visit Tom Bush Volkswagen and lease your next car for a great traveling experience. We can't wait to see you schedule a test drive and get behind the wheels!

Is there any better feeling than soaking up that sweet Vitamin D while having fun outdoors? There are lots of fun outdoor activities to keep everyone occupied here in Jackson, FL, so we've decided to share some of our favorites with you. Once you've read this, get ready to pack the family up for an adventure. more 6 Favorite Outdoor Activities in and Around Jacksonville, FL 1. e2ride Bike Tours A bike tour is a great way to learn more about the area while soaking up some rays and having fun at the same time! e2ride has a range of different tours starting from $45 for three hours. They are an award-winning tour company and know their stuff. Their tours run several times daily; all they ask is that you bring your own bicycle. 2. Adventures up the Creek If you're looking for something more adventurous, why not book a kayak tour and explore the beautiful waterways in Jacksonville? This company provides all the equipment you will need and supplies you with snacks to keep you energized throughout the day. Don't worry if you have little to no kayaking experience; the instructors will teach you everything you need to know. 3. Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens Jacksonville Zoo is just over 73 acres and is always a great day trip. With so much to see and do here, you'll always learn something new and see something you haven't seen before. They have over 2000 animals, so make sure you get here early to make the most of the day. They run great educational programs for kids and have won many awards for conservation and wellness towards animals. 4. Jax Jet Ski Rentals If you want to kick it up a notch exploring the waterways, you can always rent a jet ski. Their staff will show you everything you need to know, so there's no need to worry if you've never been on a jet ski before. Just show up and be prepared for a wild adventure on the water. 5. Atlantic Beach If you'd prefer to lounge and work on your tan, the beach is always an excellent spot for that. This beach is well maintained and clean, with lifeguards on duty. There are also lots of excellent dining facilities nearby if you get hungry. 6. Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary Catty Shack is a wildlife sanctuary that provides a safe home for endangered big cats. They offer daily tours as well as nighttime feeding events. A trip to Catty Shack allows you the chance to get up close and personal with some of your favorite big cats. All the cats here have been rescued, and their keepers will educate you on every animal's backstory that brought them to live at the sanctuary. These are only a few of the incredible activities you can do in the area, and we hope you find them as much fun as we did! While you're nearby, we'd love you to visit us at Tom Bush Volkswage n, where we can discuss some of our great car deals with you.

Jacksonville, FL, has some of the most scenic biking trails in the state. The trails range from easy to difficult and run through a diverse landscape with breathtaking panoramic views. Here you can ride on paved trails in the shade under the tree canopy, over bridges, or on the sand down a stretch of beach and appreciate the picturesque scenery. more 6 Popular Biking Trails in and Around Jacksonville, FL 1. The Jacksonville Baldwin Trail This shady 15-mile paved trail is one of the oldest in the area and suitable for all types of bikes and skill levels. The path runs under a dense tree canopy through wetlands, hardwood forests, and flatwoods. A great spot to take a breather is at Camp Milton Historic Preserve halfway down the trail. The best place to start is the Imeson Road trailhead. There are also restrooms and benches along the tail. 2. A1A Ocean Islands Trail This 40-mile scenic trail is one of the newest paths and starts at the Amelia Island Bridge and runs to Big and Little Talbot Island State Parks. You will ride through lush forests and along beautiful beaches. You can take the St. Johns River Ferry, a highlight of the tail, and ride on to Mayport, Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, and Jacksonville Beach. The trail also gives cyclists access to the Timucuan Trail. 3. Timucuan Trail Take a scenic and moderate ride through Big Talbot and Little Talbot State Parks. Some sections of the trail are along the road and A1A bike lane. In Little Talbot Island State Park, the path runs along the park's road and then crosses the Amelia River. The trail is part of the East Coast Greenway trail network that stretches from Florida to Maine. It is a picturesque ride not to be missed when you want to experience panoramic views and natural scenery. 4. Kathryn Abby Hanna Park Trails Over 15 miles of mountain bike trails snake through the park. The trails marked as difficult are regarded as the most hardcore trails in the region. The surfaces change from sand to dirt and mud constantly. Also, watch out for exposed tree roots along the way. All the trails run in the same direction, so at least you don't have to worry about traffic coming from the front. 5. WKC Trail This loop mountain bike trail in the Tillie Fowler Regional Park is flat and snakes around trees but offers little side loops with increased difficulty for a more challenging ride. You have to navigate around tight corners, over roots, and over log crossings. The trail gives riders access to an advanced section and a jump line and drop. 6. Beach and Peach Trails Beach and Peach Urban Park welcomes anyone on a bike, doesn't matter what your skill level is, to enjoy the trails that run through the park. The paths and jumps in the park were hand-built by volunteers who love biking. The park offers a fun biking experience where you can practice your skills before you tackle those hardcore trails in the region. The city has loads of on and off-road trails. The trails are for all skill levels, and scenic rides and practice runs. Contact Tom Bush Volkswagen today and let one of our friendly and knowledgeable team members assist you with any of your vehicle requirements.

The untouched, natural beauty of Little Talbot Island State Park, the diverse habitat, and the abundant wildlife make this little island paradise a haven for nature lovers. As one of only a few undeveloped barrier islands that remain in the region, visitors are treated to picturesque beaches, lush forests, and breathtaking vistas. more 6 Fun Activities to Enjoy at Little Talbot Island State Park 1. Hiking Explore the pristine island wilderness on foot along the one-mile Nature Trail that begins at the salt marshes of Myrtle Creek and meanders past sand dunes and through the maritime forest. The trail has interpretive signs along the way on the indigenous plants and animals in the park. To make the trail fun for the kids, get Hide and Seek instructions from the ranger station and find treasures along the path. The 4-mile Dune Ridge Trail loops through a hammock, past a beach dune, a marsh, and ends with a leisurely stroll down the beach. 2. Bicycling Cyclists have a choice of on and off-road trails that run through the park. There is the 2.5-mile paved, multi-purpose Timucuan Trail and the off-road Dune Ridge Trail. On the Timucuan Trail, there is a pavilion, benches, a water fountain, and free air to inflate your bike's tires. The trail also has interpretive panels with information on the fauna and flora in the park. The Dune Trail runs through the forest and along the beach. 3. Paddling Long Island Outfitters and Kayak Amelia have everything you need to enjoy the water. They have canoe and kayak rentals and offer guided trips and informative tours around the island. If you have your own kayak or canoe, there is a launch at the campgrounds. 4. Birding There are an abundance of birds on the Atlantic Coast. The park is home to a wide variety of migrating birds, songbirds in the hammock forest, and wading birds down at the marsh. Be on the lookout for painted buntings, red knots, plovers, terns, and great horned owls. During the late spring and summer, you will see nesting shorebirds and their young. 5. Fishing For fishermen, the five miles of beach and the salt marsh offer excellent fishing opportunities. At the salt marsh, anglers hook black drum, redfish, flounder, and trout. The On The Line Bait shop at Kayak Amelia has everything you need. The owners are helpful and eagerly offer advice on fishing in the park. Make sure to get a free edition of the Fishing Connection magazine for inside fishing tips, the best bait to use, and where what is biting at the ranger station. The campground has a bait cleaning station and a dock into Myrtle Creek. 6. Camping Camp under the stars between ancient dunes and a hammock of live oaks, holly, and magnolias. The park has RV and tent sites with electricity, picnic tables, fire rings, and drinking water. The restrooms have hot showers, there is a laundry, and a dump station. You can bring your pets along if they are well-behaved and leashed. Pets are allowed on the trails but not on the beaches. Pack your picnic basket and enjoy the day in the park. Stroll through the forest, swim in the ocean, and have lunch at one of the beach-side pavilions. Contact Tom Bush Volkswagen today for the best quality new and pre-owned vehicles.