TOP 10 Outdoor picnic areas in Gainesville, Florida

Visit Gainesville, Alachua County, FL is a local government office and tourist attraction located at 33 North Main Street in Gainesville, Florida, United States. Visitors can enjoy world-class museums, performing arts, and live music, as well as explore 8 state parks with over 100 miles of trails for biking, birding, and hiking. Cool off in crystal-blue freshwater springs or plan a road trip adventure for the family with affordable local attractions and fun things to do. The institution also offers a list of upcoming spring festivals in Gainesville and Alachua County for travelers to plan their visit. Explore the outdoors on hiking and biking trails, paddle on the Santa Fe River, and relax at the end of the day on the Sippin’ Seven Alachua County Ale Trail. For more information and travel planning assistance, contact the Alachua County Visitors & Convention Bureau at (866) 778-5002 or (352) 374-5260, or email info@visitgainesville.com. Photo of Sweetwater Wetlands Park by Wesley Hetrick.

Must Love Dogs Park is a charming and vibrant park located in Gainesville, Florida. As the name suggests, this park is a haven for dog lovers and their furry companions. Situated at 5505 Southwest Archer Road, this park is a popular tourist attraction for both locals and visitors alike. At Must Love Dogs Park, you can enjoy a variety of amenities and activities designed specifically for dogs and their owners. The park features spacious off-leash areas where dogs can run and play freely, as well as agility equipment for those looking to challenge their pups. There are also walking trails, picnic areas, and water stations to keep both dogs and their humans hydrated.

Welcome to Lucky Charm RV Park in North West Florida! Your luck will change when you stay with us in beautiful, sunny Old Town, Florida. Located just 42 miles west of Gainesville, this little slice of heaven offers peaceful, natural surroundings and lots of large oak trees for plenty of shaded RV campsites. Nearby attractions include Fanning Springs State Park, Fort Fanning, and Fanning Springs Trailhead, as well as the Nature Coast State Trail and Andrews Wildlife Management Area. Our 40 or older park is perfect for those looking for a quiet and relaxing getaway, as we do not allow children. Our amenities include electric hook up, water & sewer connections, oversized pull-thru lots, internet access, a laundromat, screened-in swimming pool and hot tub, clubhouse with a billiards table, an open library, a pet-friendly park, bath house and restrooms, picnic tables, and fire pits. Come stay with us at Lucky Charm RV Park for a truly lucky and enjoyable experience!

Santa Fe Palms RV Resort is a beautiful campground located at 3013 Northeast 53rd Avenue in Gainesville, Florida. This resort offers a peaceful and scenic retreat for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors. With spacious RV sites, cozy lodging options, and plenty of amenities, Santa Fe Palms RV Resort is the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway. Guests can enjoy the park-like setting, take a dip in the pool, explore the nearby hiking trails, or simply relax and unwind in nature. Whether you're traveling in an RV or looking for a cozy cabin to stay in, Santa Fe Palms RV Resort has something for everyone. Come and experience the beauty of this tranquil oasis in the heart of Florida.

Jonesville Park is a scenic green space located on Northwest 143rd Street in Gainesville, Florida. This peaceful park offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors of all ages, including playgrounds, walking trails, picnic areas, and sports fields. The lush surroundings and well-maintained facilities make it the perfect spot for a family outing or a relaxing day in nature. Whether you're looking to play a game of soccer, have a leisurely stroll, or simply enjoy a picnic with loved ones, Jonesville Park has something for everyone to enjoy. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of this beloved community park in the heart of Gainesville.

Magnolia Parke is a beautiful park located in Gainesville, Florida, United States. Situated on Northwest 39th Avenue, this institution offers a serene and picturesque environment for visitors to enjoy nature and relax. With lush greenery, blooming flowers, and peaceful walking paths, Magnolia Parke is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're looking to have a picnic, go for a jog, or simply unwind in a tranquil setting, Magnolia Parke provides a welcoming oasis for all to enjoy.

Forest Park, located at 4501 Southwest 20th Avenue in Gainesville, Florida, is a popular tourist attraction and park. Recently renovated in 2023, the park offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. With 4 multi-purpose fields, volleyball, basketball, and pickleball courts, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Dog owners can also bring their furry friends to the dog park areas for some active play. Visitors can relax under one of the pavilions and take in the beautiful greenspace. The park is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on observed holidays. Funding for the renovation came from the City of Gainesville’s Wild Spaces & Public Places program and a grant from the Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program.

Roper Park is a picturesque green space located at 401 Northeast 2nd Street in Gainesville, Florida. Situated within walking distance of downtown, this park offers a peaceful environment for play and relaxation. The park holds historical significance as it was once the parade ground and barracks for East Florida Seminary, with a marker on the grounds providing details about its past. Visitors to Roper Park can enjoy amenities such as a playground, rock wall, shade structures, picnic tables, and grills. The park is also dog-friendly, allowing leashed pets to accompany their owners. Roper Park is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with closures on observed holidays. Whether you're looking for a place to unwind or engage in outdoor activities, Roper Park is a perfect destination for all ages.

Springtree Park, located at 2700 Northwest 39th Avenue in Gainesville, Florida, is a beautiful outdoor space that offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy. The park features a small playground, picnic pavilion, fitness equipment, and nature trails that wind through the flatwoods with towering pines and fern-covered slopes near Three Lakes Creek. Visitors can relax on the deck overlooking the creek or take a leisurely stroll along the improved trails. The recent improvements to Springtree Park, completed in July 2020, have enhanced the overall experience for visitors. The addition of a new playground, adult fitness stations, a pavilion, and park signage have made the park even more welcoming and enjoyable. The project, which cost $197,609, has transformed Springtree Park into a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Squirrel Ridge Park is a charming and picturesque park located at 1603 Southwest Williston Road in Gainesville, Florida. This popular tourist attraction offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, winding paths, and a serene pond. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply relax and take in the natural beauty of the surroundings. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including playful squirrels that can be spotted darting across the grounds. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun outing with family and friends, Squirrel Ridge Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Albert Ray Massey (Westside) Park is a charming and family-friendly park located in Gainesville, Florida. Situated at 3100-3346 Northwest 8th Avenue, this park is a popular tourist attraction for both locals and visitors. With its lush greenery, picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking trails, it offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with loved ones, or simply relax in nature, Albert Ray Massey (Westside) Park is the perfect destination for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

Sweetwater Preserve is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction located at 309 Southeast 16th Avenue in Gainesville, Florida, United States. This stunning natural oasis offers visitors the chance to explore lush greenery, serene waterways, and diverse wildlife. With miles of scenic hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for birdwatching, Sweetwater Preserve is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an active adventure, this hidden gem in Gainesville is sure to captivate visitors of all ages.

Boulware Springs Park, located in Gainesville, Florida, is a popular tourist attraction and park that serves as a trailhead for the 17-mile Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, hiking, biking, and horseback riding along the scenic trail. The park offers picnic facilities, parking, and an area for unloading horses. City staff and volunteers are working to restore the sandhill and upland pine forest near the parking lot. In January 2020, a new metal roof was installed on the park's pavilion by American Roofing Company, a local business. The project cost $5,495. Boulware Springs Park is open daily from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. from March 15 to September 30, and from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. from October 1 to March 14. The park is also open on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with observed holidays. Visit Boulware Springs Park for a day of outdoor fun and relaxation in beautiful natural surroundings.

Smokey Bear Park is a charming outdoor space located at 2300 Northeast 15th Street in Gainesville, Florida. This park is dedicated to promoting fire safety and conservation efforts, inspired by the iconic symbol of forest fire prevention, Smokey Bear. Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities such as picnicking, hiking, and bird watching in a peaceful and natural setting. With its scenic trails and educational displays, Smokey Bear Park is a great destination for families and nature enthusiasts alike. Come and explore this beautiful park and learn about the importance of protecting our forests for future generations.

Unity Park, located at 1710 Northeast 31st Avenue in Gainesville, Florida, is a vibrant community park that has been recently renovated in 2021. The park features new playground equipment and play areas, as well as two basketball courts, tennis courts, picnic tables, a pavilion, and grills for visitors to enjoy. In addition to these amenities, Unity Park also offers a walking loop with fitness stations and a community garden for those looking to stay active and connect with nature. Dog owners are welcome to bring their furry friends along, as long as they are kept on a leash.

Fred Cone Park is a charming and picturesque park located in Gainesville, Florida. Situated at 2801 East University Avenue, this park is a popular tourist attraction for visitors and locals alike. With its lush greenery, walking trails, and serene atmosphere, Fred Cone Park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply relax and enjoy the natural beauty, this park is the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature.

Copeland Park is a charming green space located at 7020 Northeast 27th Avenue in Gainesville, Florida. This beautiful park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with well-maintained walking trails, lush grassy areas, and plenty of shade from towering trees. Visitors can enjoy picnics, leisurely strolls, or simply relax and soak in the natural surroundings. Copeland Park is a popular spot for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts looking to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature in the heart of Gainesville.

Green Acres Park is a serene and picturesque park located at 643 Southwest 40th Street in Gainesville, Florida. This lush green space offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with winding pathways, shady trees, and beautiful gardens to explore. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply relax and take in the natural beauty of the surroundings. With its tranquil atmosphere and scenic views, Green Acres Park is the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature.

Cynthia Moore Chestnut Park and Clark Butler Nature Preserve is a beautiful park located at 2315 Southeast 35th Street in Gainesville, Florida. This institution offers visitors the chance to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of Florida, with walking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views. The park is home to a variety of wildlife and native plants, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful walk in the woods or a relaxing picnic with family and friends, Cynthia Moore Chestnut Park and Clark Butler Nature Preserve has something for everyone to enjoy.

Hogtown Creek Headwaters Nature Park is a serene and picturesque park located at 1500 Northwest 45th Avenue in Gainesville, Florida. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of Florida with its lush greenery, winding trails, and diverse wildlife. The park is perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day in nature or a fun adventure with family and friends, Hogtown Creek Headwaters Nature Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Possum Creek Park, located in Gainesville, Florida, is a popular tourist attraction known for its mowed recreation fields, playground, picnic pavilion, and jogging trail. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as ballgames, flying kites, frisbee, and hiking along scenic nature trails. The park also features a contemporary skate park with modern plaza elements and a multi-level bowl, making it one of Florida's premiere skateboarding landscapes. Additionally, there is an off-leash dog area for furry friends to roam freely. Possum Creek Park is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and closed on observed holidays. Come explore and enjoy the natural beauty of Possum Creek Park!

Monteocha Park is a charming and picturesque tourist attraction located at 803 Northwest 192nd Avenue in Gainesville, Florida. This serene park offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its lush greenery, scenic walking trails, and tranquil ponds. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply relax and unwind in nature, Monteocha Park is the perfect destination. Come and explore this hidden gem in the heart of Florida.

Cora P. Roberson Park is a beautiful outdoor space located in Gainesville, Florida. Situated at 600 Southwest 6th Street, this park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With lush greenery, walking paths, and picnic areas, visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll or a relaxing afternoon with family and friends. The park is a popular spot for outdoor activities such as jogging, biking, and birdwatching. Whether you're looking to unwind in nature or get some exercise, Cora P. Roberson Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

San Felasco Park, located at 6400 Northwest 43rd Way in Gainesville, Florida, is a stunning forested oasis at the city's northwestern edge. Visitors can immerse themselves in the sounds of birdsong, the smell of pine trees, and the sight of colorful wildflowers as they wander through the park's hiking trails and boardwalks that wind through pine flatwoods and cypress swamps. Families can enjoy a playground, picnic shelters, and multiple grills, making it the perfect spot for a day outdoors together. The park also serves as a conservation area, with ongoing restoration activities on the north end. The City of Gainesville is dedicated to managing the natural area to benefit native plants and animals, including using prescribed fires to maintain the ecosystem. Visitors interested in learning more about prescribed fires can visit whyprescribedfire.org.

Westside Park Playground is a vibrant and engaging recreational space located in Gainesville, Florida, United States. This beloved community institution offers a wide range of amenities for children and families to enjoy, including colorful play structures, swings, slides, and picnic areas. The playground is surrounded by lush greenery and provides a safe and welcoming environment for kids to run, climb, and explore. With its convenient location and well-maintained facilities, Westside Park Playground is the perfect destination for a fun-filled day outdoors.

Prairie Creek Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located in Gainesville, Florida, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors the chance to explore diverse ecosystems, including prairies, wetlands, and forests. With miles of hiking trails, visitors can immerse themselves in nature and observe a variety of wildlife, from birds to deer. The preserve also features picnic areas, perfect for enjoying a meal surrounded by the peaceful surroundings. Prairie Creek Preserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience the beauty of Florida's natural landscapes.

Westchester Pool and Pavilion is a premier recreational facility located in Gainesville, Florida. Situated on Northwest 82nd Boulevard, this institution offers a serene and inviting atmosphere for individuals and families looking to relax and unwind. The pool is impeccably maintained and perfect for swimming laps or simply lounging by the water. The pavilion provides a shaded area for picnics, parties, and gatherings, making it an ideal spot for hosting events. With its convenient location and top-notch amenities, Westchester Pool and Pavilion is the perfect destination for those seeking a fun and enjoyable day out in the sun.

H. Spurgeon Cherry Westside Pool, located in Gainesville, Florida, is a full-featured aquatics facility offering a range of amenities for swimmers of all ages. The pool includes short course lap lanes, a splash pad, diving boards and towers, a disabled access ramp, aqua slide, and a picnic area. The bathhouse and showers are available for use, and the pool is staffed by trained professionals. There is also deck space for sunbathing, swim lessons, and relaxation. The pool operates on a seasonal schedule, with specific hours for lap swim, open swim, and special events. For information on fees and schedules, visit the "Aquatics" section of the website. Special events or pool rentals can be arranged by contacting the Aquatics Supervisor.

The T B McPherson Recreation Complex is a vibrant park located at 1717 Southeast 15th Street in Gainesville, Florida. This recreational facility offers a wide range of amenities and activities for visitors of all ages. From playgrounds and sports fields to walking trails and picnic areas, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this family-friendly park. The T B McPherson Recreation Complex is the perfect place to spend a day outdoors, whether you're looking to relax and unwind or get active and play. Come visit this beautiful park and experience all that it has to offer!

The T.B. McPherson Center, located at 1717 Southeast 15th Street in Gainesville, Florida, offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy. These amenities include parking, restrooms, basketball courts with lighting, diamond fields for baseball and softball, tennis courts with lighting, unpaved trails, picnic tables, grills, a pavilion, playground, and a pool. Dogs are allowed on leashes in the park. The center also features fitness stations along the trail for activities such as sit-ups, push-ups, and dip-training. Gainesville's Aces in Motion (AIM) program operates from the park, providing after-school activities for disadvantaged youth and people with disabilities. The tennis courts are frequently used by the program.