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Fort George Island Cultural State Park
Discover the rich history of this site, where Native Americans feasted, colonists built a fort, and the Smart Set of the 1920s vacationed.
For over 5,000 years, Fort George Island has been a site of human occupation. The island was named after the 1736 fort constructed to protect the southern flank of Georgia during its time as a colony.
Today, visitors flock to the park for various outdoor activities including boating, fishing, off-road bicycling, and hiking. A highlight is the meticulously restored Ribault Club, once an exclusive resort now serving as a visitor center with event space for special occasions. Nearby, visitors can launch small boats, canoes, and kayaks into the tidal waters.
Ribault Clubhouse
Perched on shell middens left by ancient natives, the Ribault Club was constructed in 1928 and symbolized the carefree spirit of the 1920s for wealthy northerners and Jacksonville residents. Despite facing financial struggles during the Great Depression, the club was eventually acquired by the Florida Park Service in 1989.
Today, through collaborative efforts of the Florida Park Service, the National Park Service, and Jacksonville city, the Ribault Club has been revitalized. The club now houses the park’s visitor center and offers rental spaces for meetings and events, inviting visitors to relive the glamour of a bygone era.
Acquisition Article
In 1989, the state of Florida acquired 581 acres on Fort George Island as part of the Conservation and Recreation Lands (CARL) program, ensuring the preservation of valuable natural and cultural resources for public enjoyment.
Hole One
In the 1920s and 30s, Ribault Club members engaged in various recreational activities such as lawn bowling, yachting, and golf. The Scottish-style golf course on the island featured natural landscapes and fairways.
Managed by the Florida Park Service until 1991, the golf course has since been restored to its natural state.
Tabby House
Constructed in the mid-1800s, the Thompson Tabby House’s origins remain shrouded in mystery. Named after Charles Thompson, who acquired the island in 1854, it is believed he was the home’s builder.
The house, made of tabby, a blend of crushed oyster shell, sand, and water, was a testament to using locally abundant resources for construction.
Fort George Road
Embark on a journey through time by driving along Fort George Road adorned with majestic live oak trees. Dive deeper into the island’s history with a virtual ranger tour along the Saturiwa Trail, a portion of Fort George Road.
Enhance your experience by acquiring a CD of the tour from the Ribault Club or ranger station to enjoy during your drive.
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