Tree Hill Nature Center

The Tree Hill Nature Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and wilderness preserve in Jacksonville, Florida, organized for the purpose of providing an educational experience for visitors to appreciate and learn about the natural environment in Jacksonville. The land was acquired to preserve and protect an urban wilderness area containing sensitive plants and animals from surrounding development. The city park opened in 1971.The organization has participated in efforts that preserved other land and created other parks in Jacksonville.PropertyOriginalThe original property of 40 acres was split into multiple tracts, with the state of Florida purchasing most of the acreage in 1975, and ownership held by the Florida Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund . The TIITF board is composed of the Florida Governor and the cabinet .Ten moreThe city purchased an additional 10 acres in 1998, acquired through a grant from Florida Communities Trust (FCT). The land is the former location of Lone Star Stables.Development of the property was divided into three phases. The first, begun in 2002, included removing debris, property fencing, an environmental survey, and creation of a development plan. The city of Jacksonville allocated funds for completing phase 1 in 2004. Additionally, a grant was obtained from the Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program (FRDAP) to cover amphitheater construction, landscaping, parking, and construction of new trails with learning stations. Improvements began in 2006 which consisted of the amphitheater roof, restrooms and storage areas.HistoryThe property known as "Tree Hill" was put up for sale in early 1970 by private owners. Arlington residents from church and civic organizations formed Preservation Association for Tree Hill (PATH) during that summer and begin negotiating for the purchase of 21½ acres. PATH raised $10,000 in May 1971 to secure a lease with an option to purchase the parcel for $230,000. In 1971, the City of Jacksonville began providing funds for Tree Hill operations.