In the middle of the St. Johns River, 2,000-year-old shell midden mounds are found along the shoreline and in the interior of Hontoon Island. Intricately carved wooden animal effigies have been recovered from these midden mounds.

Trails through the island park take visitors past these ancient remains, and replicas of the animal effigies are on display in the picnic and playground area. A visitor center contains exhibits about the many inhabitants and uses of Hontoon Island over the past 2,000 years. Boat accessible only.

Information provided by Florida Department of State.

Photo courtesy Hontoon Island State Park.