Parks & Recreation

Overview

The St. Johns County Parks and Recreation Department is committed to a thriving local park system, opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy healthy, active lifestyles, and preserving the natural beauty of our environment. Explore the many ways Parks and Recreation is making our communities happier and healthier by providing a place where it all comes together – a sense of community, an appreciation of history, and a respect for nature.

A kayaker watches a sunset from a patch of vegetation in a river.

Discover SJC Parks & Recreation

Parks bring community, history, and nature together.

SJC Parks & Rec News

SJC Parks and Recreation Renews Certified Autism Center Designation

The St. Johns County Parks and Recreation Department has renewed its Certified Autism Center designation, with at least 80% of staff completing updated autism and sensory training.

Parks & Rec Hosting Third Annual Family Color Run 5K at SJC Fairgrounds

On Saturday, November 14, the Parks and Recreation is hosting its third annual Family Color Run 5K at 9 a.m. at the St. Johns County Fairgrounds (5840 SR 207 E., Elkton).

Pink Walk Oct. 10 | 8 a.m.

On Oct. 10, come join the 2026 Pink Walk through Hastings in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Wear your best pink-forward outfit and join us for a walk supporting community members impacted by breast cancer. Folks of all ages and abilities are welcome!
Walkers will gather at the W.E. Harris Community Center (400 E. Harris St., Hastings) at 8 a.m. For more information, contact Latoya Coleman at (904) 209-0373.

Night Under the Stars Oct. 16 | 7 p.m.

We’re once again partnering with the Ancient City Astronomy Club for another Night Under the Stars at the St. Johns County Equestrian Center (8200 Smith Road, Hastings). Come out at 8:30 p.m. on Oct. 16 for a hands-on introduction to astronomy, where you can learn about everything there is to spy in the night sky! Whether you’re a longtime stargazer or new to even using a telescope, you’ll love this program.

Hastings Trunk-or-Treat Oct. 24 | 5 p.m.

Want to try out your Halloween costumes before the big night? Join us at the 2026 Hastings Trunk-or-Treat at Al Wilke Park (6150 S. Main St.) on Oct. 24 for a safe, spooky time with friends and neighbors, co-sponsored by Parks and Recreation, the Hastings Branch Library, and Team Up Hastings. The trunk-or-treating starts at 5.
Stick around until 7 for our Movie in the Park: Toy Story 5.
To register your trunk or receive more information, please call Tess Simpson at (904) 209-0375 or Emily Fox at (904) 827-6972.

Family Color Run 5K Nov. 14 | 9 a.m.

Gather your friends and family for a morning filled with laughter, health, and vibrant colors at the St Johns County Fairgrounds! Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a casual jogger, this event is perfect for all ages and fitness levels.

SJC Parks & Recreation Recognized as a Certified Autism Center

Children play at a playground in St. Johns County. The Certified Autism Center logo is pictured at the bottom of the image.

In April 2024, St. Johns County Parks & Recreation earned the Certified Autism Center designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).

This distinction follows a comprehensive staff training program, heightened awareness efforts, and an on-site review of county parks and facilities.

Learn more about the celebration of this milestone

Resources