Princess Place Preserve

Flagler County's Princess Place Preserve (also known as Cherokee Grove), located south of St. Augustine, encompasses and protects the oldest European homestead in the county. This park boasts more than five miles of hiking and equestrian trails, cottages, campsites, and docks for canoes and kayaks. Located at the intersection of Pellicer Creek and the Matanzas River, Princess Place Preserve can be enjoyed by birders, campers, and fishermen alike. Natural areas within the park include a salt marsh, an artesian spring, and a live oak stand. Princess Place Preserve also welcomes couples to use the park as a wedding venue.

History of Princess Place Preserve

Among the natural resources at Princess Place, there is also history to be found here. Indeed, the historic lodge at Princess Place is the oldest intact structure in Flagler County.

In 1791, the King of Spain granted the land to Francisco Pellicer, who created an orange grove on the property, which became known as Cherokee Creek. Nearly 100 years later, Cherokee Creek passed into the hands of Henry Cutting, who then had an Adirondack-style lodge built on the Matanzas River shores, using local materials.

As for the name "Princess Place," after Cutting died, his widow Angela married an exiled Russian prince. Together, they lived in Cherokee Grove, entertaining royalty in a royal setting, leading to the name "Princess Place." The homestead became a park in 1993. In 1997, it was listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

Those interested in the buildings and the Princess Place Preserve history may take a tour of the property at 2:00 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays (weather permitting — first come first serve).

Amenities at Princess Place Preserve

• Interpretive Exhibits
• Guided Tours 
  • Historic Lodge Tours — Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 2:00 p.m.
• Hiking Trails (Paved & Unpaved)

• Bicycling Trails
• Campfire Rings
• Canoeing / Kayaking Docks
• Fishing Access
• Restroom Facilities
• Picnic Pavilions
• Primitive Campsites ($)
• Equestrian Campsites ($)
• Cottages ($)
• Pet Friendly (Dogs must be on a leash)

No motorized vehicles are allowed at Princess Place Preserve. 

Visit Princess Place Preserve

Admission: Free. Most amenities are free, as well. See "Reservations" section below for what amenities require fees.

Address: 2500 Princess Place Rd, Palm Coast, Florida 32137

Parking: Free. There are multiple parking lots throughout Princess Place, the largest being at the Historic Lodge.

Reservations: Visitors must pay a fee to use the campsites (primitive and equestrian options available), cottages, and event grounds. To make reservations, or to schedule a wedding or event at Princess Place Preserve, call (386) 313-4020. 

Other Parks Near St. Augustine

With such a diverse array of natural resources, the area has dozens of unique parks — from marshland to forest trails and more. Explore our local Parks Directory or read insider articles about Camping in St. Augustine or Exploring Nature around the Ancient City.