Nature parks in Jay, Florida

Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park is a sprawling natural oasis located in New Port Richey, Florida. This park covers over 8,000 acres of pristine wilderness, making it a popular tourist attraction for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore miles of hiking and biking trails, spot a variety of wildlife, and enjoy picnicking and camping facilities. The park also offers opportunities for fishing, birdwatching, and kayaking in its scenic waterways. With its tranquil atmosphere and abundant natural beauty, Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park is the perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

The Balm Boyette Scrub Nature Preserve is a 5,723-acre park and tourist attraction located at 15102 County Road 672, Wimauma, Florida, United States. The south part of the preserve is best known for its 25 miles of mountain biking trails, catering to riders of all skill levels. Beyond its recreational use, the preserve is home to over 800 acres of intact scrub habitat, supporting a variety of protected plant and animal species such as the Florida golden aster, Florida scrub-jays, indigo snakes, and gopher tortoises. For hiking opportunities, visitors can explore the Balm Boyette Nature Preserve - West located at 13998 Balm Boyette Road, Lithia, 33547.

Lake June-in-Winter Scrub Preserve State Park is a peaceful 845-acre park located at 630 Daffodil Street in Lake Placid, Florida. This park serves as a sanctuary for the endangered sand scrub ecosystem and is home to some of Florida's rarest plant and animal species, such as the Florida scrub-jay and gopher tortoise. Visitors to the park can enjoy bird-watching, nature study, hiking along white sand fire lanes, and fishing from the lakeshore. The park also offers a half-mile nature trail, a picnic area with shelter, and the opportunity to launch canoes or kayaks onto the lake.

Oscar Scherer State Park, located at 1843 South Tamiami Trail in Osprey, Florida, is a popular tourist attraction and park offering a variety of recreational activities for visitors. The park is currently experiencing some closures due to American Bald Eagle nesting season, with sections of the Red Trail closed until further notice. Additionally, Campground restroom No. 2 is closed for construction, limiting available campsites. Despite its location surrounded by urban areas, Oscar Scherer State Park serves as a peaceful oasis for nature lovers, offering 15 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and birdwatching. The park is home to the endangered Florida Scrub Jay and provides habitat for bald eagles in the winter. Lake Osprey is a popular spot for fishing and swimming, while South Creek attracts anglers, canoers, and kayakers.

Bray-Hendricks Park in Jay, Florida is a picturesque outdoor oasis located at 5259 Booker Lane. This park offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with lush greenery, winding walking paths, and tranquil picnic areas. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park, have a relaxing picnic with family and friends, or simply unwind and connect with nature. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun day out with loved ones, Bray-Hendricks Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

McDavid Park is a charming park located at 6218 Oil Plant Road in Jay, Florida, United States. This peaceful and picturesque park offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With lush greenery, winding walking paths, and a tranquil atmosphere, McDavid Park is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and connect with nature. Whether you're looking to have a picnic, take a leisurely stroll, or simply enjoy the fresh air, McDavid Park is a wonderful destination for visitors of all ages. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of McDavid Park today.

Located at 12108 Rhodine Road in Riverview, Florida, the Rhodine Scrub Nature Preserve is a 448-acre park and tourist attraction in the heart of Hillsborough County. This unique preserve is home to the Florida Scrub habitat, known as the "Florida desert," which supports a variety of plant and animal species not found anywhere else. Visitors can explore two miles of trails that wind through the scrub and around an open water marsh, providing opportunities to spot a diverse range of bird species such as blue-gray gnatcatchers, mockingbirds, and blue jays. Keep an eye out for mammals like raccoons, bobcats, and opossums, as well as reptiles including black racers and the keystone species, the gopher tortoise. Rhodine Scrub Nature Preserve offers a one-of-a-kind experience to connect with nature and learn about the unique ecosystems of Florida.

Balm Boyette Scrub Nature Preserve - West is a 5,723-acre park located at 13998 Balm Boyette Road in Lithia, Florida, United States. The west part of the preserve features a 2-mile hiking trail through scrub habitat, offering visitors the opportunity to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Beyond its recreational use, the preserve is also home to over 800 acres of intact scrub habitat, which is crucial for the survival of many protected plant and animal species. Species such as the Florida golden aster, Florida scrub-jays, indigo snakes, and gopher tortoises rely on this rare and declining habitat for their survival.

Golden Aster Scrub Nature Preserve is a 1,181-acre park located at 12181 East Bay Road in Gibsonton, Florida, United States. This nature preserve features a variety of unique habitats, including endemic scrub habitats, pine flatwoods, wet prairie, hardwood swamp, and freshwater marsh. Visitors can explore a 3-mile loop hiking trail, which offers scenic views of the diverse landscape. Rare species such as the Florida goldenaster and Florida Scrub Jay can be found within the preserve. Golden Aster Scrub Nature Preserve was acquired by Hillsborough County through the ELAPP program in 1995, making it a valuable conservation area for the community to enjoy and explore.

The Nature Conservancy's Disney Wilderness Preserve is located at 2700 Scrub Jay Trail in Poinciana, Florida, United States. This park is home to over 1,000 species of plants and animals, making it an essential part of the Everglades ecosystem. The preserve contains 3,500 acres of restored wetlands that help filter out nutrients and replenish groundwater. Although the preserve is not affiliated with Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, The Walt Disney Company provided funds for restoration and wildlife monitoring. The preserve stands as a testament to Walt Disney's love of nature and the power of cooperation and innovation.

Oscar Scherer State Park Campground, located in Nokomis, Florida, is a hidden oasis surrounded by urban areas. The campground offers a refreshing escape into natural Florida, with 15 miles of trails providing solitude, beauty, and adventure for visitors. The park plays a crucial role in the preservation of the Florida scrub-jay habitat and is home to nesting bald eagles in the winter. Lake Osprey and South Creek are popular spots for anglers, swimmers, canoers, and kayakers. Please note that sections of the Red Trail are closed during American Bald Eagle nesting season, and campground restroom No. 2 is currently closed for construction. Canoe and kayak rentals are also unavailable at this time. Despite these limitations, Oscar Scherer State Park remains a worthwhile stop for travelers and a favorite spot for the surrounding community. Visitors can also enjoy special events like the Haunted Trails in October and participate in the 5-k run to support the endangered Florida Scrub Jay.

The Florida Scrub-Jay Trail is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 11490 Montevista Road in Clermont, Florida, United States. This unique trail offers visitors the opportunity to observe the endangered Florida Scrub-Jay in its natural habitat. With well-maintained walking paths, birdwatching opportunities, and educational exhibits, the Florida Scrub-Jay Trail is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Come explore this hidden gem and learn more about the importance of preserving the delicate ecosystem of the Florida scrublands.

Welcome to Jay May Mobile Home Park, your ideal lodging destination nestled in the heart of Holiday, Florida. Located at 1045 Hickory Lane, our RV park offers a serene and welcoming environment perfect for both short-term visitors and long-term residents. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Florida’s landscapes, our park provides a relaxing retreat with all the comforts of home. At Jay May Mobile Home Park, we pride ourselves on offering top-notch amenities and services to enhance your stay. Whether you're traveling in an RV or looking for a cozy mobile home, our spacious sites and well-maintained facilities ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Our friendly community atmosphere and attentive staff are here to make your stay as pleasant as possible.

Welcome to Starkey Park Entrance, your gateway to nature and adventure in New Port Richey, Florida! Nestled in the heart of Florida's scenic landscape, our park offers a serene escape for nature lovers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Explore miles of picturesque trails perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, or enjoy a leisurely picnic surrounded by lush greenery and diverse wildlife. Starkey Park Entrance is not just a park; it's a community hub where visitors can connect with nature and each other. Our well-maintained facilities include ample parking, clean restrooms, and designated picnic areas, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit for everyone. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an active day out, Starkey Park Entrance is the perfect destination.

Welcome to Starkey Park Bike Trail Head, your gateway to the natural beauty of New Port Richey, Florida. Nestled at 11115 Wilderness Park Boulevard, our park offers a serene escape for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. As a premier destination for biking, Starkey Park features an extensive network of well-maintained trails that wind through lush landscapes and picturesque scenery, perfect for both casual riders and seasoned cyclists. Our park provides a variety of amenities to enhance your visit, including ample parking, rest areas, and informative trail maps to guide your adventure. Whether you're looking to embark on a leisurely ride or challenge yourself with a more rigorous route, Starkey Park Bike Trail Head promises an unforgettable experience surrounded by Florida’s rich wildlife and tranquil environment.

Welcome to Starkey Park Shelter 5, a serene and picturesque destination nestled within the breathtaking Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in New Port Richey, Florida. Located at 11115 Wilderness Park Boulevard, our shelter offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it an ideal spot for gatherings, picnics, and outdoor celebrations. Surrounded by lush greenery and the tranquil ambiance of the wilderness, Starkey Park Shelter 5 provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're planning a family reunion, a birthday party, or a casual get-together with friends, our spacious and well-maintained shelter is equipped to accommodate your needs.

Welcome to Starkey Park Pipes, located along the scenic Starkey Park Bike Trail in New Port Richey, Florida. Nestled within the lush landscapes of Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, our unique park offers visitors a serene escape into nature's beauty. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a family looking for a day of fun, or someone seeking a peaceful retreat, Starkey Park Pipes is the perfect destination. Explore our well-maintained trails, ideal for biking, hiking, and leisurely walks amidst the towering trees and diverse wildlife. Discover the charm of our park's namesake feature—pipes that add a quirky touch to your nature experience. Picnic areas provide a perfect spot for gatherings and relaxation, while our open spaces are great for recreational activities.

Bigfoot Crossing Campground and Eatery is a charming establishment located in Jay, Florida, United States. This unique institution offers a combination of a cafe, food, lodging, park, and restaurant all in one place. Situated at 13065 Florida 87, Bigfoot Crossing provides a cozy and inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy delicious meals, relax in comfortable accommodations, and explore the beautiful surroundings of the campground. Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat in nature or a tasty meal with friends and family, Bigfoot Crossing Campground and Eatery is the perfect destination for a memorable experience.

Bay Bayou RV Resort, located at 8492 Manatee Bay Drive in Tampa, Florida, is a highly rated campground that offers deluxe amenities and a natural setting along Double Branch Creek. Good Sam consistently rates Bay Bayou RV Resort as one of the best RV resorts in Florida. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities within minutes of the resort, including access to Florida's famous beaches, theme parks, sightseeing, restaurants, shopping, gaming, and golf. Sports enthusiasts can also catch a Tampa Bay Buccaneers or Rays game, or attend spring training for teams like the Philadelphia Phillies, New York Yankees, and Toronto Blue Jays. Double Branch Creek provides water access for kayaks, canoes, and small fishing boats to explore Florida's unique wetlands. The resort boasts beautifully landscaped grounds, a pool, and patio area, making it a premier choice for RV travelers. Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, Bay Bayou RV Resort has something for everyone. Book your stay today and make Bay Bayou your new home away from home in Florida.

The Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center is a must-visit destination located at 1987 Scrub Jay Way in Titusville, Florida, United States. This park and tourist attraction offers a wide range of recreational and educational opportunities for nature lovers. To access certain areas such as the Black Point Wildlife Drive and Bio Lab Road, a Refuge Pass is required, which can be purchased at the Visitor Center or online. The fees collected help in providing safe and meaningful experiences for visitors. Established in 1963 for the protection of migratory birds, the refuge spans over 140,000 acres and boasts diverse habitats such as coastal dunes, saltwater marshes, pine flatwoods, and hardwood hammocks. It is home to over 1,500 species of plants and animals, including 15 federally listed species. Visitors can engage in activities like bird watching, nature study, fishing, and seasonal hunting.

Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve is a 5,000 acre park located in Cedar Key, Florida. This tourist attraction offers 13 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The reserve is home to twelve natural communities, including the rare Florida scrub, which provide excellent opportunities for wildlife observation. Visitors can spot Florida scrub-jays, gopher tortoises, and bald eagles in their natural habitats. The western boundary of the reserve features tidal marshes, perfect for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Access to the marshes is available at the FWC Senator George Kirkpatrick Marine Laboratory boat ramp in Cedar Key. With two trailheads for easy access, Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Manasota Scrub Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 2695 Bridge Street in Englewood, Florida, United States. This unique preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore a diverse ecosystem of scrub habitats, pine flatwoods, and wetlands. With miles of hiking trails, boardwalks, and observation platforms, visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of this protected area. The preserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including gopher tortoises, scrub jays, and a variety of bird species. Whether you're looking for a peaceful nature walk or a chance to spot some rare wildlife, Manasota Scrub Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Rye Preserve, located at 905 Rye Wilderness Trail in Parrish, Florida, offers visitors a chance to experience a piece of old Florida right in their own backyard. This 530-acre park is situated just northwest of the Lake Manatee Dam and features a diverse trail system that takes visitors through four unique ecosystems, including sand pine scrub, xeric oak scrub, oak hammocks, and the river community. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot rare species such as the gopher tortoise and Florida scrub-jay while exploring the preserve. In addition to its natural beauty, Rye Preserve also has historical significance as it is home to the Rye Family Cemetery, a reminder of Manatee County's early pioneer history. The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, with limited hours at the Ranger Station for campers during the camping season from September through May.

Duette Preserve, located at 2649 Rawls Road in Duette, Florida, is the largest Preserve in Manatee County, covering over 21,000 acres. This beautiful park in the northeastern part of the county is home to a diverse range of game and non-game animals, including several species of special concern and endangered/threatened species such as the Florida scrub jay, Florida panther, and Eastern indigo snake. Visitors to Duette Preserve can enjoy hiking, biking, and horseback riding on designated trails, with parking available at three different locations. The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset for pedestrian, bicycle, and equestrian traffic, except on certain weekends when it is closed for the Hunt Program.

Hickey Creek Wildlife and Environmental Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 17980 Palm Beach Boulevard in Alva, Florida, United States. The institution is managed by the Lee County Department of Parks & Recreation and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. It features a variety of habitats such as palmetto-oak scrub, pine flatwoods, and seasonal wetlands, with scenic views of Hickey Creek. The park supports the threatened Florida Scrub-Jay and gopher tortoises. The park was established as a mitigation effort to offset the impacts of development on native plant communities and wildlife. It was opened to the public in 2002 and encompasses 952.61 acres of land, including pine flatwoods, freshwater marshes, cypress swamps, and oak-palm forests. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including gopher tortoises, Florida Scrub-Jays, Florida panthers, bobcats, and various bird species.

The J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge Visitor & Education Center is a must-visit institution located in Sanibel, Florida, United States. The center offers a variety of exhibits and information about the refuge's ecosystems, migratory flyways, and the work of Jay Norwood "Ding" Darling. Visitors can explore the Nature Store, visit America's best restrooms, and enjoy hands-on activities for children. The refuge itself is home to over 245 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatching and photography enthusiasts. Visitors can walk, bike, or drive the four-mile Wildlife Drive, access walking trails, and canoe launches. The Bailey Tract, an interior part of the refuge, is dominated by freshwater plants and wildlife and offers a unique experience for nature lovers.

Villa Pass by Maronda Homes is a brand-new community located in the serene town of Mascotte, Florida. Situated in Lake County, Villa Pass offers easy access to SR-50 and Florida's Turnpike, making it a convenient location for residents. The affordability of real estate in Mascotte allows for spacious homes with modern amenities, making it an attractive option for those looking to build a new home. The area's proximity to Orlando and Central Florida's attractions makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a peaceful residential setting without sacrificing urban amenities. Villa Pass residents can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including parks, golf courses, and water activities on the nearby lakes. Mascotte is also known for its excellent schools, making it a great destination for families. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the quick access to Lake Hiawatha Preserve, the Florida Scrub Jay Trail, and Lake Louisa State Park. The Clermont Chain of Lakes provides acres of parks to explore by foot, boat, bike, or horseback.

Santa Rosa Ranch is a sprawling park located in Jay, Florida, United States. This picturesque institution offers visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its lush greenery, winding trails, and peaceful atmosphere, Santa Rosa Ranch is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and reconnect with nature. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with loved ones, or simply enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, this park has something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility and beauty of Santa Rosa Ranch today.

The Lake Monroe Conservation Area in Osteen, Florida is a beautiful park and zoo that encompasses a large portion of the floodplain of Lake Monroe. With wetlands making up 94 percent of the property, this area provides essential water quality and flood protection. The natural communities within the conservation area include floodplain marsh/wet prairie and floodplain swamp/forest. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of open floodplain marsh, primitive camping in a shady oak hammock, and the chance to spot Florida scrub-Jays in the high sandy scrub area. The property also offers two parking areas for convenience. Explore the rich history of the area, where Native Americans once hunted and fished, and learn about Minnie Beck Kratzert, whose family owned the property until it was sold to the district in 1987. Keep an eye out for a variety of wildlife, including waterfowl, wood storks, bald eagles, deer, and alligators. Please remember to respect Florida's wildlife and use caution while visiting the conservation area.

Welcome to Chumuckla Springs Boat Ramp, your gateway to the serene waters of Jay, Florida. Located at 10501 Chumuckla Springs Boat Ramp Road, our facility offers convenient access to the beautiful Escambia River, making it the perfect spot for boating enthusiasts, anglers, and nature lovers alike. Whether you're planning a leisurely day on the water, fishing, or simply enjoying the scenic surroundings, our boat ramp provides a hassle-free launch point for your aquatic adventures. With ample parking and easy access, Chumuckla Springs Boat Ramp is designed to accommodate both seasoned boaters and newcomers. Come and experience the natural beauty and tranquility of the Escambia River at Chumuckla Springs Boat Ramp. We look forward to welcoming you!