Some people believe that outdoor picnics are a thing of the past, but this list is going to present some of the best spots in Palatka to have one. Outdoor picnics over the years have become less common due to the abundance of dine in restaurants or other takeaways from the old tradition. This old tradition, however, is one that should not be forgotten as it presents an experience like no other. Outdoor picnics allow us to experience the outdoors and bask in the face of nature and the wonderful clean air it provides. The pureness of being outside while eating is incomparable to anything else.

Outdoor picnics can foster family rituals or introduce a plethora of outdoor activities to the family. Small games or tricks can be played with or on one another which help to create those core memories that will last a lifetime. Consuming healthy food made at home provides the energy needed to be active and energetic throughout these activities. Eating outdoors is a natural mood booster and the lack of sun in people’s bodies can affect mood. Having the fresh air, sunshine, and nice breeze can motivate anyone to want and get some exercise.

 

RAVINE GARDENS STATE PARK

The Ravine Garden State Park features a 1.8-mile paved ravine perimeter road. There are accessible picnic tables and even grills available throughout the park. The Ravine Garden State Park also features stairways and trail access into the ravines which are located near each picnic area. The Ravine Garden State Park was transformed into a dramatic garden by the federal Works Progress Administration in 1933. The Ravines has changed a lot over the years from the underground water bubbling up, cutting into the bank, carrying sand and soil downstream to the St. Johns River. A changing landscape with beautiful sights and an amazing Park Staff, this is not a place to miss when planning an outdoor picnic in Palatka.

PALATKA RIVERFRONT PARK

The Palatka Riverfront Park has changed drastically over the years, and it has never looked better than it does now. A great amount of effort from the city has allowed for this park to flourish. The park rests with inspiration from William Bartram and offers plenty of historic focal points in the extent of observation stops that extend for a quarter mile along the waterfront, passing the new playground. With plenty of open grassy areas, shade from trees, and seating from benches or the fountain, this spot is perfect for the ideal outdoor picnic. The nature and beauty of the Riverfront are the focal points that make this spot one of a kind.

BRONSON MULLHOLLAND HOUSE

The Bronson Mulholland house features a stunning 3-acre garden out front of the house with live oaks and magnolias. It is owned by the City of Palatka and is open for anyone to freely enter the beautiful garden. The garden is a natural parkland with palm trees and brick paths throughout the courtyards. This spot is a perfect outdoor picnic spot for those wanting to also revisit some of Palatka’s history with a great view of the Bronson Mulholland House. The house was built in 1854 and has been a staple in Downtown Palatka for its historical significance.

RODMAN RECREATION AREA

Rodman Recreation Area offers picnicking at the pavilions or in the open grassy areas of the campground. This recreation area also has the Florida National Scenic Trail that runs across the Kirkpatrick Dam westward into the Ocala National Forest and eastwards 1.4 miles to the Rodman Campground. A lot of the trails have spots that can be easily adapted to form an outdoor picnic if the outside pavilions or open grassy areas are not warranted.