Providing quality childcare for over 65 years
A Hidden Gem in Jacksonville
Covered in beautiful ancient live oak trees and bordering the ecologically-sensitive Silversmith Creek, Happy Acres Ranch sits on 10 beautiful wooded acres in the Holiday Hill – Glynlea neighborhood in the Southside area of Jacksonville. Our property and buildings create a relaxed, country atmosphere that is centrally located in the heart of the urban area we serve.
Farm & Forest School
Playschool, Preschool & Kindergarten
Farm Club
Seasonal Camps
RENTALS
Event Space Rentals
Happy Acres Ranch can be used for a variety of occasions. In the past we have hosted school field trips, weddings, family reunions, and more! At Happy Acres Ranch, we are proud to offer our unique space for whatever event you may have.
About us
History and Accreditation
Happy Acres Ranch was founded by Marion Scarborough in 1953. The property consists of 10 acres extending from Crane Ave. to Silversmith Creek. The camp has been accredited by the American Camp Association since 1966.
4+ acres
Playgrounds and fields spanning
1.5 acres
preschool-only outdoor play areas
Themed Weeks
Over 50 days of
summer adventure!
The Summer Camp program is divided into 10 different themed weeks. Each week has daily special events and new activities. All campers are eligible to take a lesson in any one (or all!) of our program areas.
testimonials
Come join us to Play, Learn, Discover and Grow!
Facebook review"My children are the fourth generation of kids in my family to attend Happy Acres summer camp. They have a special place in my heart. This is a true camp experience with all of the dirt that comes with being outside. My kids come home cov..." Read more
Google review
"Kids love it for before and after school care, and camp during the summer!"
"This is our second summer here and my daughter loves it. She’s excited for each day and can’t talk about how much fun she had when she gets home each evening. Definitely recommend!"
"To arrive and get out of my car to the sound of children laughing and playing was music to my ears! So welcoming on our first day here and my son is just going to live this school! I just know it!"
"Thanks for our fantastic stay with you recently!! We loved it. Jenny, Felicity and Kath!! X"
"This is my daughters 5th year going to HAR for the summer. She loves it so much and so do we. Where a kid can be a kid. Great experience. If you have never signed your child up for the summer you should. They are missing out on an AMAZ..." Read more
"My son has gone to Summer camp and now is in Winter camp. I love that he is playing outside, learning about nature and animals everyday. This is way more than a daycare/ camp. Best choice I’ve ever made is enrolling my son at Happy Acres. H..." Read more
"My family and I visited this place today for the Christmas event they had going on and let me just say we had a fantastic time . Everyone was so friendly , the atmosphere was light and inviting and put us in the Christmas spirit . We have a..." Read more
"My son loves this place great friendly staff and very fun for the kids so happy he went her for summer camp will be returning next summer."
"I can't find better place for my son! all is nature and adventure.. we are extremely happy with this place"