Douglas C. Crane Park

Located at 1039 Shore Drive in St. Augustine, Douglas C. Crane Park provides free public access to the Matanzas River via two concrete boat ramps designed for small craft, kayaks, and canoes. The facility offers a straightforward launch point for exploring this scenic coastal waterway without any launch fees or vehicle parking charges.

The Matanzas River is a brackish estuarine system characterized by salt marsh and mangrove tidal wetlands, making it ideal for paddling and small boating. The area's calm waters and proximity to historic St. Augustine make it a popular destination for recreational kayakers and canoeists. The park also provides amenities for a full day of recreation, including shoreside walking areas and picnic facilities.

Nearby attractions include the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument and the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve, both accessible by water or a short drive from the ramp. Be aware that tidal conditions influence water levels and currents in this estuary, so paddlers should plan their trips accordingly.