The John M. Golden Education Pavilion

On April 11, 2008, the University of North Florida dedicated the 1,000-square-foot Environmental Education Pavilion to John M. Golden, UNF’s first Chief Eco Adventure Ranger and Environmental Educator for almost 20 years. The education pavilion functions as the headquarters for environmental education programs, the annual summer Osprey Eco Camp, and many other University events.

The octagonal shaped pavilion is rustic and constructed from rough wood timbers. Nestled among the green tree canopy on the shoreline of Lake Oneida, the many windows in the pavilion showcase the beauty of the UNF nature Preserve. A wrap-around porch is adorned with rocking chairs and benches. While the pavilion lacks air conditioning, the many windows allow for plenty of air circulation, making the temperature pleasant, even during summer. The pavilion is equipped for internet access via Wi-Fi connections and is set up in a comfortable rustic lodge style. It easily seats 40 people and has a maximum capacity of 70. Restrooms are easily accessible.

The pavilion is located at the edge of the UNF nature Preserve, next to Lot 100 and Parking Services.

Pavilion Rentals

The facility is available for use by University organizations, departments and the general public. The pavilion is generally available for rental on weekdays from 3 p.m.-10 p.m. or weekends from 8 a.m -10 p.m.

Rental fees are based on the type of organization renting and the amount of time rented.  Users can choose from a half day rental of 1-4 hours or a daily rate . In addition to rental fee, a charge of $8.00 per hour is required for staffing the event throughout the duration of the event. Staff time will include 30 minutes before the event for any preparation, the duration of the event, and 30 minutes after the event for clean up.

For more information or to reserve the Golden Pavilion please contact Justin Hites, Coordinator of Environmental Education, at (904) 620-5952.

Regulations

• Users are welcome to bring their own food and refreshments or use Mayes Catering Services (904) 249-8437.
• Alcohol is not permitted
• Users will be billed for all staff time and additional rental fee if the event exceeds the contract time limits.

Birthday Party Package

Give your child a unique and unforgettable Osprey Party! Let us host your child’s birthday party!

In this party package a Ranger will open the Pavilion and give a brief introduction to the Sawmill Slough Preserve, including relevant safety points. Parents and children are then welcome to use the Pavilion and nature Preserve for activities of their choosing.

Our party package is 3 hours and is staffed by 1 Ranger. Price: $150 which includes a $25 non-refundable deposit is due at the time of booking.

Parties are offered on Thursdays-Sundays. (Exclude dates when the University is closed). Thursdays and Fridays parties are offered in the afternoon. Saturday and Sunday parties are offered in the morning & afternoon hrs. Party reservations should be made at least 2 weeks in advance.

Groups 20+ require an additional Ranger. The additional charge is $30. ($10 per hour).

View our party packet for more information.

Additional activities can be added on the Osprey Party Package for an additional cost that will be added onto the Osprey Party price. Activities on the lake include one lifeguard. Games are created by Environmental Education Rangers and will be primarily wildlife focused and age appropriate.

• Frequently Asked Questions

• Who provides the food, drink, and cake?
  You provide the food, drinks and cake of your choosing.
• How can I learn more about the games that will be played?
  A trained Ranger will pick a game suitable for the age of the group. The game will likely be wildlife focused and will allow the kids to learn about local flora and fauna while they play in the Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Where do the children canoe?
  In the nature Preserve of Lake Oneida, a freshwater lake. A UNF lifeguard, as well as the working Ranger, will be leading the canoeing activity.
• How and when do we pay?
  You pay with a credit card through our system, Active Net, though the Department of Recreation. You will be charged a $25 non-refundable deposit when you book in order to reserve your party, which will be deducted from the party package price. You will also pay the amount when you book your program.
• What is the cancellation policy?
  If you have to cancel your party you must notify us at least 48 hours prior to your party to avoid getting charged the entire amount. If you cancel more than 48 hours prior to the party you will get a refund, with the exception of the $25 non-refundable deposit.
• When should I arrive? Should I decorate?
  The working Ranger will open the pavilion at your party start time. You are welcome to begin the festivities then. Keep in mind that the pavilion is already decorated with various wildlife visuals, and the pavilion is surrounded by the beautiful Wildlife Sanctuary. 
• What should the kids wear?
  Kids should wear clothes that they freely move around in, and clothes that they can get dirty. If canoeing, wear a bathing suit underneath your clothes and remember to bring a towel. 
• What about sunscreen and bug spray?
  We always recommend that you sunscreen and bug spray the kids, either before you arrive or when you arrive. 
• Are the Rangers CPR and First Aid trained?
  Yes, all of our rangers are trained in CPR and first aid. 
• What happens if it rains?
  If you have a party with any of the additions, the working Ranger will make a cancellation decision the morning of the party, as all of the additions include outside activities. If you choose the Osprey package without additions your party may continue as normal through rain, as the pavilion is covered. In this case it is up to you whether or not you choose to have your party. Importantly, the cancellation decision must be made by 1pm the day of the party. If you cancel after 1 p.m. the day of the party you will be charged $50. 
• How do I contact a Ranger if I have questions?
  Please e-mail us at rectrail@unf.edu.