Only 16 miles east of
Jacksonville, the moss-draped laurel and live oaks of
Fort George Island welcome visitors to this historic unit in the Talbot Islands State Park complex.
Some traces of man's 6,000-year continuous occupation of this paradise remain as well; today, the Rollins Bird Sanctuary occupies most of one end of the island, home to a great number of protected birds. Bicycling, hiking, and fishing are offered along the island's backroads and trails. A self-guided tour around the island can be followed after obtaining a guidebook at Fort George's Ribault Clubhouse or the ranger station at Little Talbot, 3 miles south.