Laid out in 1894 with the arrival of the railroad from St. Marys, Kingsland is named after the former owner of the land, William Henry King. It lies along the St. Marys River, which marks Georgia’s border with Florida as it flows to meet the Atlantic Ocean at Fort Clinch.
Things to do in Kingsland
Enjoy a scenic journey through woodlands and marshes onboard the St. Marys Railroad Express, which is based 14 kilometres away in the town of St. Marys. Originally founded in 1865 by Captain Lemuel Johnson, the historic St. Marys & Kingsland Railroad went on to become the Atlantic, Waycross & Northern Railroad. Today, it offers heritage trips aboard 1950s passenger cars and open-air carriages.
A short walk from Kingsland’s railway station is Kingsland Veterans Memorial Park, which honours the soldiers who have sacrificed their lives for the United States. Planted with mature trees and lush greenery, it features paved walkways and colourfully painted walls depicting each of the military branches. Several picnic tables dot the park where you can enjoy a coffee or takeaway lunch from one of the nearby cafes.
East of Kingsland is the Laurel Island Links, an 18-hole golf course that opened to players in 1996. Designed by professional American golfer Davis Love III, it boasts magnificent views across the surrounding marshes from its fairways and greens. If you want to develop your game, there are professional instructors onsite, while after-round meals and drinks are available at Bogey’s Bar and Grille.
Getting around Kingsland
Kingsland is around 35 minutes’ drive from the centre of Jacksonville and 30 minutes from Jacksonville International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the United States. Long-distance buses travel to Kingsland while local services connect most of its attractions.