Osteen: Discover Rural Florida Beauty
A Peaceful Inland Community Near New Smyrna Beach

Welcome to Osteen — Step off the coast and into Old Florida charm in Osteen, a quiet inland community just southwest of New Smyrna Beach. Surrounded by oak hammocks, cypress trees, and scenic waterways, Osteen is where Florida’s natural beauty and small-town hospitality come together. From wildlife preserves and rail trails to classic Southern comfort food, Osteen offers a refreshing change of pace — the perfect day trip for those who love nature, history, and local flavor.
Natural Wonders: Beck Ranch Park
Once a working cattle ranch, Beck Ranch Park is now a 25-acre oasis for outdoor lovers. The park features open pastures, walking paths, and picnic areas where visitors can take in peaceful views of Florida’s countryside. It’s a popular spot for family outings and community events celebrating Osteen’s agricultural roots.
Today, Beck Ranch Park blends its heritage with modern recreation, offering plenty of space to roam, relax, and reconnect with nature. Interpretive signage shares the history of the ranching era, while shaded pavilions and wide-open fields make it ideal for gatherings, kids’ playtime, or simply unwinding under the live oaks. Whether you’re stopping for a scenic break along the River of Lakes Heritage Corridor or exploring the area’s rural charm, Beck Ranch Park offers a quiet, authentic slice of Old Florida.
Wildlife Encounters at Hickory Bluff Preserve
Spanning 150 acres along the St. Johns River, this scenic preserve showcases a diverse mix of ecosystems — from oak hammocks and cypress domes to floodplain swamps and wet prairies. While exploring, keep an eye out for osprey, bald eagles, gopher tortoises, deer, and even river otters. The preserve’s elevated bluff offers a tranquil overlook of the St. Johns River — perfect for birdwatching or photography.
Well-marked trails wind through these natural habitats, giving visitors a chance to experience the quiet beauty of the St. Johns River basin up close. Interpretive signs share insights into the area’s ecology, while shaded pathways make it easy to explore at your own pace. Whether you’re hiking, wildlife watching, or simply soaking in the serenity of the waterfront, the preserve offers a peaceful escape and a meaningful connection to Central Florida’s most remarkable natural landscape.
East Central Regional Rail Trail
The East Central Regional Rail Trail is one of Florida’s premier multi-use trails — and Osteen sits right at the heart of it. Stretching across Volusia and Brevard counties, this scenic trail follows former railway lines through forests, wetlands, and countryside. The Osteen section is especially beautiful, featuring a 6-mile shaded route to Green Springs Park, ideal for cycling, walking, or birdwatching.
This trail highlights are many. It is the longest rail-to-trail conversion in Florida, including a scenic 6-mile section between Osteen Trailhead and Green Springs Park. Accessible trailheads with rest areas and parking are available, and the nearby Osteen Diner is an excellent stop for refreshments.
📍 Osteen Trailhead: just east of SR 415 on New Smyrna Blvd
Must-Do:
The Osteen Diner
No visit to Osteen is complete without a stop at the Osteen Diner, where locals and travelers alike gather for hearty comfort food and Southern hospitality.
Try “Mom’s Breakfast”, a local favorite, or the old-fashioned pot roast for a true taste of Florida country cooking. Located just a few blocks from the Rail Trail, it’s the perfect pit stop after a morning of exploring.
Find Your Stay
Near Osteen
Osteen is conveniently located near New Smyrna Beach, Edgewater, and Port Orange, making it the perfect home base for exploring and staying close to many other attractions.
Choose from the area's charming vacation rentals, RV parks, and boutique hotels for an easy, relaxed getaway.
