Children also enjoy walking along the river shore and watching the wading birds and crabs.
Also, an entrance to the St. Johns County beach is across the street from Fort Matanzas. Children age 6-12 are invited to explore the natural and historic aspects of the park by participating in the Junior Ranger Program. Junior Rangers visit the fort, watch the park movie, look at the exhibits, and use the trail guide to explore the nature trail. Completing four activities in the Junior Ranger Handbook earns them a Fort Matanzas Jr. Ranger Badge.