Alpine Groves Park
Alpine Groves Park spans 54.5 acres in Northwest St. Johns County between the St. Johns River and William Bartram Scenic & Historic Highway. The many unique features for visitors of all ages to experience and explore include recreational activities, three unique Florida habitats, and historic structures.
AMENITIES INCLUDE:
- Picnic tables
- Playground (orange grove themed)
- Fishing pier
- Restrooms
- Pavilion
- Trail (ADA accessible)
St. Johns County, Florida, has undertaken various efforts to improve and maintain Alpine Groves Park, focusing on conservation, recreation, and habitat restoration. Some notable initiatives include:
Habitat Restoration and Preservation
The county has worked to preserve the natural wetlands and native plant habitats within the park. This includes efforts to control invasive species, replant native vegetation, and restore natural water flow to support native wildlife.
Trail and Infrastructure Improvements
Improvements have been made to the park’s trails and facilities to enhance accessibility and safety for visitors. This includes adding or upgrading walking trails, picnic areas, and educational signage to promote environmental awareness.
Environmental Education and Outreach
St. Johns County has integrated educational programs and signage to inform visitors about the park’s ecosystems and conservation efforts, fostering community engagement and stewardship.
Partnerships and Funding
The county has collaborated with local environmental organizations, state agencies, and federal programs to secure funding and technical support for ongoing restoration and improvement projects.
Water Quality and Wetlands Management
As wetlands are a key feature of Alpine Groves Park, the county has implemented measures to protect water quality, manage stormwater runoff, and maintain healthy aquatic habitats.
Alpine Groves Park Timeline:
2003
The original owners of this property, Ruth Harris Bennett and her husband Wally, sold the property to the Trust for Public Land in 2000 and later, in 2003, the Trust worked with the St. Johns County Parks and Recreation Department to obtain a grant to purchase the property with the understanding that the park would remain a passive park for the public to enjoy.
This recreation park includes stormwater retention facilities, parking, access to S.R. 13, playground facilities, nature trails with boardwalks, picnic areas, and showcases existing historic structures.
2009
Construction of a new boardwalk/fishing pier allows residents and guests waterway access in the form of fishing as well as a place to educate people on the importance of keeping our river clean.
2019
Alpine Groves Park Farmhouse Restoration – Scope of work included stabilizing and repairing wood framing; repair of roof and replaced decking; repaired window lintels and exterior trim: repair/refinish floors and interior walls; install insulation, fire protection and alarm systems; and perform minor plumbing and electrical repairs/upgrades.
2022
Restoration improvements that included stabilization of the bluff and shoreline with native plants to restore wetland and natural landscaping.
Minor Improvements
2017
Removal and replacement of (180) lineal feet of nature walk.
2023
Alpine Groves Farmhouse wall and porch repainted.
Award Winning Park
In January of 2025, St. Johns County received the Northeast Florida Regional Council’s Resiliency Award for the completion of the Parks and Recreation Departments Alpine Shores Grove Park Shoreline Restoration Project. Click on the link below for the full story:
Additional history of Alpine Groves Park can be found here: History – Friends of Alpine Groves Park, Switzerland, Florida
The Friends of Alpine Groves Park is a dedicated organization committed to preserving and enhancing the natural beauty and historical significance of Alpine Groves Park in Switzerland, Florida. They are responsible for the maintenance of the Ruth Harris Bennet Butterfly Garden. Their mission focuses on maintaining the park’s rich heritage and providing educational opportunities for the community.
The Friends group offers monthly tours of the park, providing insights into the area’s history, including its origins as an orange plantation in the early 1900s.
They organize events such as the Winter Festival, featuring vendors and activities that celebrate the park’s heritage and natural surroundings.
For more information or to become a member, please visit their official website.