Green Cove Springs brings together its connection to the river, city history, and art. Spring Park is on the west bank of the St. Johns River; in the 19th century, the natural spring “The Boil” helped make the city a major attraction and tourist destination. The city is also home to a museum featuring exhibits on everyday life in Clay County and an art space dedicated to Augusta Savage.

Places on the St. Johns River

Spring Park is on the west bank of the St. Johns River.

The City Pier is at the eastern end of Walnut Street. It is 500 feet long and has twelve boat slips.

City History and Art

Green Cove Springs’ natural spring, also known as “The Boil,” is on the St. Johns River. In the 19th century, it helped make the city a major attraction and tourist destination. The river is therefore connected not only to the way visitors experience Spring Park today, but also to Green Cove Springs’ established history as a tourist destination.

The Historical Museum is in an annex of the Historic Clay County Courthouse, near the Red Caboose, at 915 Walnut Street, Green Cove Springs, Florida 32043. The Clay County Historical Museum features numerous exhibits on everyday life in Clay County during the past century. The Boil contributed to Green Cove Springs’ importance as a tourist destination in the 19th century; the museum shows what everyday life in Clay County was like during the past century.

The Clay County Historical Museum welcomes visitors Fridays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Sundays from 2 to 5 p.m., except on holidays. Check these hours before your visit. Tours for larger groups are available on request.

The Augusta Savage Museum and Mentoring Building offers a different cultural perspective. This art space honors the life and work of sculptor Augusta Savage. While the Clay County Historical Museum focuses on everyday life during the past century, this museum centers on one artist.

Kayak Launch and Visitor Planning

Spring Park has a kayak launch at South Dock on the St. Johns River, at the corner of Spring Street and Ferris Street. If you’re considering a kayaking trip, you can use this precise location to plan. Check the latest information about the launch before your visit.

For your stay, you can choose what to focus on: the river and kayak launch, the history of tourism and everyday life in the county, or the tribute to Augusta Savage. Whether you focus on one of these or combine several depends on which side of Green Cove Springs you want to shape your trip.

Discover more destinations: Frostproof, Lakeside, Fleming Island, Middleburg, Keystone Heights, Orange Park.

Return to the main travel guide: Clay.