Nature preservation efforts in Homestead, Florida

Welcome to the Gladys Douglas Preserve, a cherished natural sanctuary located at 1900 Virginia Avenue, Dunedin, Florida. Spanning approximately 44 acres of environmentally sensitive lands, this preserve is a true treasure of Dunedin, offering an escape into nature's serene beauty. Adjacent to the preserve is the stunning 80-acre Jerry Lake and surrounding wetlands, making the entire area a remarkable 125 acres of preserved land. The Gladys Douglas Preserve is dedicated to protecting its unique ecosystem, including the last-known rosemary bald in Pinellas County and numerous endangered and threatened species. Our walking and nature trails are thoughtfully designed with educational signs that highlight the diverse plant and wildlife you may encounter during your visit. While the first phase of the preserve is now open, exciting future amenities are planned, including access to Jerry Lake, a pier, kayak launch, picnic pavilion, observation platform, and a nature museum.

The Mangrove Preserve in Homestead, Florida is a captivating park and tourist attraction that showcases the beauty and importance of mangrove forests. These watery mazes provide habitat for a variety of marine life, including tarpon and manatees. The preserve is home to one of the longest continuous stretches of mangroves on Florida's East coast. Mangroves are trees that thrive in salty environments, with some species able to block salt from their roots while others secrete excess salt through their leaves. The intricate root systems of mangroves help to keep the park's waters clean and clear by slowing water flow and allowing sediment to settle. These roots also provide shelter for marine organisms and breeding areas for birds such as brown pelicans.

Welcome to Daniels Preserve at Spanish Creek Located at 18500 Persimmon Ridge Road in Alva, Florida, Daniels Preserve at Spanish Creek is a beautiful and serene park that offers visitors a glimpse into Florida’s natural beauty and history. This 243.19-acre preserve is a testament to the dedication of the Daniels family and Lee County's Conservation 20/20 program to protect and preserve the state's unique ecosystems.

Welcome to the Henry Scharrer Homestead, a treasured piece of history nestled in the heart of Dunedin, Florida. Located at Caladesi Island, this historic site is a testament to the life and legacy of Henry Scharrer, a Swiss immigrant who made the island his home in 1888. As the father of Myrtle Scharrer Betz, author of "Yesteryear I Lived in Paradise," Henry's story continues to inspire and educate visitors about the rich heritage of Caladesi Island. For over three decades, the Henry Scharrer Memorial Fund (HSMF) played a pivotal role in preserving this legacy, offering college scholarships, supporting educational initiatives, and promoting historical preservation. Although the fund was discontinued in 2015, its mission lives on through the Friends of the Island Parks, Inc., the citizen support group for Gulf Island State Parks. This organization continues to channel proceeds from the sales of "Yesteryear I Lived in Paradise" and the "Caladesi Cookbook: Recipes From a Florida Lifetime" to support educational and preservation goals at Caladesi Island State Park.

Navy Wells Pineland Preserve is a beautiful park located at 35400 Southwest 192nd Avenue in Homestead, Florida, United States. This serene preserve offers visitors a chance to explore lush pinelands and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. With well-maintained trails and picnic areas, Navy Wells Pineland Preserve is the perfect spot for a peaceful day out in nature. Whether you're looking to hike, birdwatch, or simply relax in a tranquil setting, this preserve has something for everyone. Come and experience the beauty of Navy Wells Pineland Preserve today!

The Everglades National Park Institute, located at 10 Parachute Key in Homestead, Florida, offers a variety of naturalist-led educational eco-adventures for visitors to explore the beauty, history, and ecosystems of the Everglades. From guided walks through cypress domes to off-the-beaten-track boat tours in Florida Bay, visitors can immerse themselves in the wilderness of the park with experienced naturalists. The Institute also offers programs that focus on the impact of water flow on Everglades ecosystems and how humans have influenced the environment. Additionally, visitors can participate in special events such as photography workshops during meteor showers. The Institute is a partnership between Everglades National Park and the Florida National Parks Association, with proceeds from programs supporting the park. Don't forget to also check out the Institute's sister locations in Biscayne National Park and Big Cypress Preserve for more immersive experiences.

Located at 9700 Southwest 328th Street in Homestead, Florida, the Biscayne National Park Institute offers a range of educational eco-adventures for visitors to explore the stunning Biscayne National Park. From snorkeling adventures to guided paddles and debris clean-ups, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Departing from Coconut Grove, visitors can sail to iconic locations such as Boca Chita Key and Stiltsville, or explore the clear waters of the park on a full-day adventure. With options for small group or private experiences, the Institute provides a unique opportunity to learn about the diverse ecosystem of the park. Whether snorkeling shipwrecks, paddling through mangroves, or exploring historic Stiltsville houses, visitors are sure to have an unforgettable experience. The Institute also offers opportunities for visitors to give back to the park through sponsorships of debris clean-up events. With over 10,000 years of human history, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant wildlife, Biscayne National Park is a true gem of Florida. Book your eco-education adventure with the Biscayne National Park Institute today and support the preservation of this unique natural treasure.

The Dry Tortugas National Park Headquarters is a key administrative center for the stunning national park located in the remote Dry Tortugas Islands off the coast of Florida. Situated at 40001 State Highway 9336 in Homestead, this headquarters serves as a hub for managing and preserving the natural and historical resources of the park. Visitors can learn about the park's unique ecosystems, marine life, and historic Fort Jefferson through exhibits, ranger-led programs, and informational resources. The headquarters also provides information on recreational opportunities, permits, and safety guidelines for those exploring this beautiful and remote national park.

Frog Pond WMA is a charming park and tourist attraction located at 39801 Southwest 237th Avenue in Homestead, Florida, United States. This beautiful institution offers visitors the chance to explore a serene pond filled with a variety of fascinating frogs and other wildlife. With walking trails, picnic areas, and educational programs, Frog Pond WMA is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings and discover the wonders of this unique ecosystem.

Southern Glades Wildlife and Environmental Area is a stunning park and tourist attraction located in Homestead, Florida, United States. This institution offers visitors the opportunity to explore and appreciate the diverse wildlife and natural beauty of the area. With a focus on environmental conservation and education, Southern Glades features a variety of native flora and fauna, as well as interactive exhibits and educational programs. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Paurotis Pond is a part of the incredible Everglades National Park, located in Homestead, Florida, United States. This institution is a vital habitat for numerous rare and endangered species, including the manatee, American crocodile, and the elusive Florida panther. As a World Heritage Site, International Biosphere Reserve, and Wetland of International Importance, Paurotis Pond is an international treasure. If you're planning a trip to the park between December and April, you'll experience the dry season, which is the most popular time to visit. In April, the park hosts a month-long celebration of the night sky, astronomy, science, and celestial bodies. In addition to ranger-led programs, visitors can also explore tour options offered by park partners and concessions.

West Lake Trailhead is a gateway to the stunning beauty of America's Everglades, located in Homestead, Florida. This park is a part of the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States, offering important habitat for rare and endangered species such as the manatee, American crocodile, and Florida panther. As a World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve, the Everglades National Park is a truly special place. Visitors can enjoy a variety of ranger-led programs and activities, from easy walks and evening talks to hikes and paddling tours. The park also offers a free boater education course to educate visitors about the unique features of the marine waters within the park.

The Coastal Prairie Trailhead is located in Homestead, Florida, United States, serving as a gateway to America's Everglades - the largest subtropical wilderness in the country. This institution is part of the Everglades National Park, which protects a diverse landscape and provides habitat for rare and endangered species such as the manatee, American crocodile, and Florida panther. Recognized as an international treasure, the park is a World Heritage Site, International Biosphere Reserve, and a Wetland of International Importance. Visitors planning a trip to the park from December to April can enjoy the dry season, which is the most popular time to visit. In April, the park hosts a month-long celebration of the night sky, astronomy, science, and celestial bodies. In addition to ranger-led programs, visitors can also explore tour options offered by park partners and concessions.

Located in Homestead, Florida, United States, the Christian Point Trail offers a unique opportunity to explore a wide variety of habitats. While the trail is currently not being maintained to protect the critical habitat of the Cape Sable thoroughwort, visitors can still enjoy a rustic path through dense mangroves, buttonwoods, and open coastal prairies. Be cautious of terrain obstacles and vegetation along the way, as the trail may have some overgrowth due to lack of maintenance. The trail begins amidst lush mangroves and buttonwoods filled with bromeliads before leading you through salt-loving vegetation of the coastal prairie. Keep an eye out for dead buttonwood snags that have been shaped by hurricanes. The trail ends along the shore of Snake Bight, offering breathtaking views especially near high tide.

Ambar Trail is an outdoor adventure institution located at 15000 Southwest 272nd Street in Homestead, Florida, United States. With a focus on providing thrilling and educational experiences in nature, Ambar Trail offers a variety of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife spotting. Visitors can explore the beautiful surroundings and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of South Florida. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced outdoor enthusiast, Ambar Trail has something for everyone to enjoy. Come and discover the wonders of the great outdoors at Ambar Trail.

Everglades Wilderness Institute is a unique educational institution located in Homestead, Florida, offering guided eco-adventures in the stunning Everglades National Park. Led by experienced naturalists, visitors can explore the diverse ecosystems of the park, including cypress domes, mangrove forests, and remote beaches. Through interactive programs, guests can learn about the plants and animals that call the Everglades home, as well as the impact of human activity on the environment. The Institute also offers special events, such as photography workshops during meteor showers.