HISTORY
In late 2008, 20 acres of land on the north end of St. Simons Island were donated to the St. Simons Land Trust by the Sea Island Company. This generous donation became Frederica Park which, at the time, was the first new park on St. Simons in 50 years.
In partnership with the Land Trust, Sea Island Company oversaw the planning, design, construction and initial maintenance of Frederica Park.
The development of the park was made possible by a generous donation of $1 million from the estate of Alice Richards, who was a part-time resident of Sea Island. The Alice Richards Botanical Trail, which was designed and implemented by the Land Trust, can be found in Frederica Park. It features native plants, a wooded trail and a muhly grass labyrinth.
Today, Frederica Park is considered a Land Trust “partner property”. Glynn County manages the park and community members from all walks of life are able to enjoy it.
FEATURES
A four-acre playfield complex surrounded by viewing berms is available for soccer, lacrosse, field hockey, rugby, and other field sports. Organized games are scheduled through the Glynn County Parks and Recreation Department. At all other times, locals and visitors can throw Frisbees, fly kites, or play their own informal field games.
Much of the park is devoted to the Alice Richards Botanical Trail, where native plant species have been re-introduced to land that was previously used for timber farming. The trail features 13 interactive signs that highlight the plant life and species visible as one meanders through the woods. The trail features a gazebo, children’s area of faerie houses for imaginary play and a labyrinth in the woods for a quiet and contemplative respite.
Adjacent to the playfield are two picnic shelters, rest rooms, benches, children’s playground, dog park and hard surface jogging/running trail around the playfield. There is paved parking for up to 75 cars.
PARK OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE
Frederica Park and the Alice Richards Botanical Trail are maintained by Glynn County.
All maintenance and grounds concerns should be directed to the Glynn County Parks and Recreation Department.
(912) 554-7780
glynnrec@glynncounty-ga.gov
FUN FACT: YOU CAN SEE REINTRODUCED PLANT LIFE NATIVE TO THE ISLAND ON THE ALICE RICHARDS BOTANICAL TRAIL, SUCH AS EAST PALATKA HOLLY.
GALLERY
