Bethesda Fish Management Area

So very pretty and perfect day of fishing with my kids. I will definitely make this a regular on our outings.

We can by here to try and get out and get some fresh air but it's a bit sketchy back there. The visitor center was closed but some sketchy people were hanging out back there. There are some fishing piers and boardwalks, but I didn't feel comfortable being alone back there. Maybe I watch too much of the First 48?

A piece of paradise in the big city.I love nature, it brings me closer to God. Being disabled in the big city it's a miracle to find such tranquility. The perfect place for respite in our hectic lives. So whether it's fishing, meditating, picnicking, or celebrating this is the perfect spot. It's hidden, so you will never run across it unless you are looking for it!So relaxing, handicapped accessibility, even two cottages for romantic get a ways. For groups they have a large meeting facility available, the pond is stocked for fishing, and just visiting is free. It's like going to church without the collection plate. Guilt free time away to recharge one's weary soul.It's easy to find shade. The breeze off the lake is refreshing. I almost fell asleep fishing.No swimming though, I saw a large gator enjoying the stocked lake as well. Nature in Jacksonville at it's finest!

Bethesda Park is a beautiful hidden gem of a park, created for disabled people and others. Everything is accessible, from the lodge to the cabins to the fishing pier and boardwalk. Picnic tables are located in the gazebos on the boardwalk and the pier, overlooking the lake. Public bathrooms are accessible in the lodge.There is no playground and only service animals are allowed, but it is a lovely place for the whole family to have an enjoyable nature experience in.

Bethesda Fish Management Area is located near the intersection of I-295 and Dunn Ave. Tucked back in an unassuming suburb, you'd never guess that a park this big was back there. My husband often goes to the lake to fish for bass and we have taken several hikes around the lake [I'm not a great fisherwoman], which takes about twenty minutes. It's got some nice scenery and is a nice way to spend time outdoors.There are several big docks for fishing with boardwalks connecting them. There are a lot of buildings surrounding the lake, and we have looked around for bathrooms many times, but haven't ever been able to find any. The buildings appear to be pavilions you could rent out for events and this would be a great place to host a birthday party, work party, or family reunion.Overall it is a beautiful park that never seems too crowded. I would recommend it for walking or jogging, or just catching a breeze off the water while enjoying a little sunshine.