Citizen's Lodge Park in Marianna, Florida
Nestled in the heart of Jackson County Parks, Citizen’s Lodge Park offers visitors a beautiful setting filled with scenic trails, outdoor activities, and plenty of spots to relax and unwind. Whether you’re here for a fitness trail jog, a disc golf session, or to get the kids out of the house, Citizen’s Lodge is a great place for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
When we visited the park, we were staying at a rental home just down the street, across from the Florida Caverns. The boys had a lot of built-up energy, so we found the park. It was a great place to let them run, play on the playground, and grab a few geocaches.
Citizen’s Lodge Park is one of the newest parks in the Jackson County Parks system and has quickly become a beloved destination for locals and visitors. The park is known for its peaceful atmosphere and privacy, perfect for those seeking enjoyment in a natural setting. With its well-maintained walking trails, a disc golf scene that draws players from around the region, and regular community events like US Road Running Club races and half marathons, this park offers something for everyone.
If you’re a club member of local running or outdoor groups, you might already be familiar with Citizen’s Lodge as a key venue for packet pickup and on-site registration during race days. It’s not just a park — it’s a hub for community gatherings, fitness challenges, and outdoor recreation.
Amenities & Facilities at Citizen's Lodge Park
Camping
Citizen’s Lodge Park does not have any camping sites.
You can rent their lodge facility, though, at the following prices:
- Gazebo $80.00
- Lodge $250 + $200.00 deposit
- Large Pavilion $100.00
- Small Pavilion $80.00
- Stage $250.00
Check-In Procedures
Checking in at Citizen’s Lodge Park is streamlined and visitor-friendly. Campers and event participants can use on-site registration or complete their check-in online in advance, ensuring a smooth start to their stay or race. Staff members are well-trained to assist with occupancy load and seating capacity concerns, helping maintain a safe and enjoyable environment.
For race participants, check-in usually begins well before the race start time, with options for packet pickup available to club members and new registrants. Visitors are encouraged to review the park’s privacy policy and terms of use to ensure a better browsing experience and understanding of data charges when using the park’s mobile services.
Citizen's Lodge Park Facilities
Visitor Center
There is no formal visitor center for this park. There’s just a small on-site building that can be rented out, and used for local community events.
If you’re attending a race or fitness event, the on-site building is often the place for packet pickup and purchasing themed medals or US Road Running Club shirts as memorabilia.
Geocache disguised as a large spider in the trees
Ryan on top of the rock near the playground
Looking for fish in the lake at the park
What to do at Citizen's Lodge Park
Outdoor Activities at Citizen's Lodge Park
- The park features designated bike trails and a growing disc golf course that has attracted enthusiasts interested in the disc golf scene. Both beginners and experienced players appreciate the varied terrain and scenic views offered by the course.
- Hiking and walking are popular, with the best walking app users praising the trail variety and scenery.
- Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy quiet spots along the water’s edge, while boaters have access to launch areas to explore the park’s waterways.
- Wildlife and bird viewing are also highlights, with many visitors spotting native species thanks to the park’s preserved natural habitats.
- The park’s open spaces and clear night skies provide excellent conditions for stargazing.
- For those into fitness challenges, Citizen’s Lodge often hosts walking challenges and group races.
- Runners and walkers alike use the pacer app or additional SMS features to stay connected, track their progress, and receive real-time updates during events.
- A small playground is available as a great place to let kids burn off some energy.
Citizen's Lodge Park Basics
4574 Lodge Dr
Marianna, FL 32446
Free
Central Time Zone
0
Location, Phone Number, and Address
Citizen’s Lodge Park is located in Jackson County in the Panhandle of Florida. The address is 4574 Lodge Dr, Marianna, FL 32446 and it can be reached by phone at 850-718-0437.
What are the Entrance Fees for Citizen's Lodge Park?
There is no entrance fee to go to the park.
What Time Zone is Citizen's Lodge Park in?
Marianna, Florida, is in the part of the Florida Panhandle that resides in Central Time Zone.
When is the Best Time to Visit?
The best time to visit Citizen’s Lodge Park depends on what you’re looking to do. Spring and fall bring mild temperatures, ideal for hiking and participating in walking challenges or group races, especially the popular US Road Running Club race series hosted here. The park is also the perfect place for a morning stroll with the best walking app loaded on your phone to track elevation gain and distance.
Evenings at Citizen’s Lodge are magical for stargazing, thanks to the park’s low light pollution and open spaces. If you want to catch a race or an off club race event, check the official calendar and be prepared for packet pickup or on-site registration at the beginning of the race.
How many campsites are there at Citizen's Lodge Park?
Citizen’s Lodge Park does not have any camping.
How Big is Citizen's Lodge Park?
The park is about 103 acres in north Florida.
Park Website
Travel Tips for Citizen's Lodge Park
Getting to Citizen's Lodge Park
Located off Lodge Drive in Marianna, Florida, Citizen’s Lodge Park is easily accessible from downtown and nearby highways. The park’s location makes it a convenient stop for residents of Jackson County and visitors passing through. Whether you’re driving in for a quick walk or staying for an extended weekend, finding places like Citizen’s Lodge Park is a breeze.
Because it’s within Jackson County Parks, it benefits from consistent maintenance and improvements, helping to ensure a better browsing experience for visitors exploring the park’s website or using mobile apps to plan their visit.
Tips for a Visit to Citizen's Lodge Park
- Download the best walking app before you go to track your distance and elevation gain along the fitness trails.
- Arrive early on race days for smooth packet pickup and to secure good parking spots near the lodge.
- Don’t forget your themed medal or club member shirt if you’re participating in one of the park’s races or half marathons.
- Use the disc golf courses to unwind after a hike.
- Bring binoculars for wildlife and bird viewing to get the most out of the park’s beautiful setting.
- Remember to respect the park’s privacy policy and terms of use, especially when sharing photos or group photos from events.
- Visit during spring or fall for the best weather and lower occupancy loads.
- Use Lodge Drive for your GPS and to find the main entrance easily.
What is the Nearest City to Citizen's Lodge Park?
Citizen’s Lodge Park is in the city of Marianna, Florida. You can find many facilities and amenities within the city.
What is the Nearest Airport to Citizen's Lodge Park?
The closest airport to Marianna, Florida is Marianna Municipal Airport (KMAI), located about 5 miles northeast of the city. While it’s a general aviation airport, meaning it primarily serves private and smaller aircraft, it’s the closest option. For commercial flights, the closest major airports are Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) in Panama City (about 45 miles away) and Dothan Regional Airport (DHN) in Dothan, Alabama (about 39 miles away).
What are the Closest Parks to Citizen's Lodge Park?
Jennings Park
1.5 miles • 5 minute drive
3 miles • 5 minute drive
8 miles • 10 minute drive