Water management wildlife in Florida

Silver Springs State Park, located in Silver Springs, Florida, is a popular destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The park is known for its famous glass bottom boat tours, allowing visitors to explore one of America's largest springs and witness an underwater world teeming with life. Surrounded by serene gardens and historic structures, Silver Springs State Park offers a glimpse into the past when the area was a major tourist destination for Northerners arriving by steamship. The park is also home to the annual Springsfest, a celebration of the protection and restoration of Florida's springs and waterways.

Buford Spring Trailhead is a park located at US-19 in Brooksville, Florida, United States. Most of the refuge is only accessible by boat, but the trailhead provides land base access to the Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge. Visitors can hike trails, launch paddle craft, enjoy a sheltered pavilion, and observe wildlife from a two-story tower. Established in 1943 to benefit waterfowl, the refuge is now important for endangered West Indian manatees. The refuge focuses on wildlife conservation, managing lands and waters to ensure the survival of native species. Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge protects critical habitat for manatees and serves as a breeding and feeding ground for marine life. The refuge is home to many species of birds and works with others to conserve and protect wildlife and habitats for the benefit of the American people. Please note that links to external websites do not constitute endorsement by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Croom MTB Parking 1 is a designated mountain biking parking area located at 11281 Croom Rital Road in Brooksville, Florida. This park is specifically designed for mountain bikers to park their vehicles before hitting the trails in the surrounding Croom Wildlife Management Area. With easy access to the trails and ample parking space, Croom MTB Parking 1 is the perfect starting point for a day of outdoor adventure in the beautiful natural surroundings of Florida.

Upper Hillsborough WMA Access Point and Parking is a beautiful park located in Zephyrhills, Florida, United States. This park offers easy access to the Upper Hillsborough Wildlife Management Area, allowing visitors to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The parking facilities make it convenient for visitors to park their vehicles and start their outdoor adventures. Whether you enjoy hiking, birdwatching, or simply taking in the scenery, Upper Hillsborough WMA Access Point and Parking is the perfect starting point for your outdoor excursions.

Lower Green Swamp Nature Preserve is a sprawling 12,800-acre park located at 3540 East Knights Griffin Road in Plant City, Florida. Formerly known as Cone Ranch and Audubon Ranch, this nature preserve offers nearly 20 miles of sunny hiking and equestrian trails for visitors to explore. Managed by the County's Public Utilities Water Department from 1988 to 2010, Lower Green Swamp Nature Preserve was transferred to the County's Jan K. Platt Environmental Lands Acquisition and Protection Program (ELAPP) in 2010. Since then, ongoing restoration projects have been implemented to improve the preserve's hydrology and enhance its natural habitat.

Van Fleet Trail - Mabel Trailhead is located at 12201 County Road 772 in Webster, Florida, United States. This park is officially designated as part of Florida's statewide system of greenways and trails, and is one of Florida's most rural, paved rail-trails. It is also designated as a National Recreation Trail®, running through the Green Swamp which is the headwaters for some of Florida's most popular paddling destinations including the Withlacoochee, Hillsborough, and Peace rivers. The landscapes along the trail include river swamp, bottomland forest, pine flatwoods, former citrus lands, and cattle ranches. With only one curve in its 29.2 miles, visitors can choose to go slow and view the wildlife or enjoy it at a brisk pace. An equestrian trail parallels the length of the paved path, and there are excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, especially between Green Pond Road and Bay Lake Road.

Van Fleet Trail - Bay Lake Trailhead is a beautiful park located at 7500 Bay Lake Road in Groveland, Florida, United States. This institution is officially designated as part of Florida's statewide system of greenways and trails, offering visitors a chance to explore one of Florida's most rural, paved rail-trails. Designated as a National Recreation Trail®, the Van Fleet State Trail runs through the Green Swamp, which serves as the headwaters for popular paddling destinations such as the Withlacoochee, Hillsborough, and Peace rivers. The landscapes along the trail include river swamp, bottomland forest, pine flatwoods, former citrus lands, and cattle ranches.

The Van Fleet Trail - Green Pond Trailhead is a picturesque park located at 4903 Green Pond Road in Polk City, Florida, United States. This institution is officially designated as part of Florida's statewide system of greenways and trails, offering visitors the opportunity to explore one of Florida's most rural, paved rail-trails. As a National Recreation Trail®, the Van Fleet State Trail passes through the stunning Green Swamp, which serves as the headwaters for popular paddling destinations such as the Withlacoochee, Hillsborough, and Peace rivers. The diverse landscapes along the trail include river swamps, bottomland forests, pine flatwoods, former citrus lands, and cattle ranches.

Buck Lake Group Campground is a beautiful institution located in Umatilla, Florida, United States. As part of Recreation.gov, we offer a wide range of camping and lodging options, as well as access to various outdoor activities and experiences across the country. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat in nature or an adventurous getaway, we have something for everyone. With over 3,600 facilities and 103,000 individual sites to choose from, you can easily plan your next trip with us. Explore historic landmarks, outdoor escapes, and wildlife viewing opportunities right in your backyard or across the country. Our tools and resources make it easy to manage trip details and reserve experiences that will make your vacation unforgettable.

Wingate Creek State Park, located in Myakka City, Florida, is a 614-acre park in Manatee County. The park is open from 8 a.m. until sundown and offers a variety of natural habitats including scrub, flatwoods, and wetlands. Wingate Creek and Johnson Creek converge in the park, forming a tributary that flows to the Myakka River. The park is rich in history, with evidence of human occupation dating back thousands of years. The park is named after the Wingate family, who settled in the area in the 1890s. Visitors to the park can enjoy exploring, hiking, biking, birding, and nature study. The park is home to a variety of wildlife including gopher tortoises, wild turkeys, hawks, owls, squirrels, mice, and deer.

Ocoee Downtown Stormwater Park is a serene green space located on West Franklin Street in Ocoee, Florida. This park serves as a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city, offering a peaceful retreat for visitors to relax and enjoy nature. The park features a stormwater retention pond that not only helps manage water runoff, but also provides a habitat for local wildlife. With walking paths, benches, and lush landscaping, Ocoee Downtown Stormwater Park is the perfect place to unwind and connect with the natural world. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to read a book or a peaceful place to take a leisurely stroll, this park has something for everyone.

Ocklawaha River Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is a picturesque park located at 15698 Northeast 152nd Street in Fort McCoy, Florida, United States. This institution is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and wildlife of the Ocklawaha River region. Visitors can enjoy hiking, bird watching, fishing, and boating in this peaceful and scenic area. The park is a great destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the diverse ecosystems of Florida. With its lush forests, tranquil river, and abundant wildlife, Ocklawaha River WMA offers a unique and immersive outdoor experience for all who visit.

Bahia Beach Nature Preserve, located at 2513 West Shell Point Road in Ruskin, Florida, is a beautiful park that was acquired by Hillsborough County in 2001 through the ELAPP program. The Preserve has been restored through a collaborative effort between Hillsborough County, the Environmental Protection Commission of Hillsborough County, and the Southwest Florida Water Management District. The restoration area includes new wetlands that have been created to enhance wildlife and marine habitat, as well as to improve water quality in the bay. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching opportunities, with wading birds, ducks, bald eagles, and shorebirds often seen in the area. Come explore the natural beauty and diverse wildlife at Bahia Beach Nature Preserve.

Ortona South Lock Campground is a picturesque camping and lodging facility located at 2410 Dalton Lane in Moore Haven, Florida, United States. As part of Recreation.gov, we offer over 3,600 facilities and 103,000 individual sites across the country for you to reserve and experience. Whether you're into camping, hiking, wildlife viewing, or monument tours, there's something for everyone at Ortona South Lock Campground. Our goal is to help you plan your next trip, manage your details, and ensure you have the best experience possible. With access to tools, resources, and rental options, you can easily chart the course for your dream vacation. Join us in exploring America's outdoor and cultural destinations, and bring home a story that you'll never forget. Visit us today and start planning your next adventure at Ortona South Lock Campground!

The Kissimmee Basin is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located in Lorida, Florida, United States. This stunning natural area is home to a diverse range of wildlife and offers visitors the chance to explore the unique ecosystem of the Kissimmee River Basin. From hiking trails to bird watching opportunities, the Kissimmee Basin is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Come and discover the beauty and tranquility of this hidden gem in the heart of Florida.

W.P. Franklin Campground is a beautiful institution located at 17850 North Franklin Lock Road in Alva, Florida, United States. This campground offers lodging and park facilities for visitors to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, and more. With over 3,600 facilities and 103,000 individual sites across the country, Recreation.gov is here to help you plan your next trip and reserve experiences that will create lasting memories. Whether you're looking to explore historic landmarks, national forests, or simply relax in nature, there's something for everyone at W.P. Franklin Campground.

CREW Cypress Dome Trails is a unique institution located at 3980 Corkscrew Road in Immokalee, Florida. This campground, lodging, park, and tourist attraction is dedicated to preserving and protecting the water resources and natural communities of the Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed. With over 70,000 acres of land, CREW is the largest intact watershed in Southwest Florida, spanning Lee and Collier Counties. In partnership with the South Florida Water Management District, the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, Conservation Collier, and Lee County 20/20, CREW works towards advancing land acquisition, management, and public use of the watershed. They also provide environmental and watershed education to all ages to cultivate future generations of stakeholders and advocates.

CREW Flint Pen Strand, Lakes Parking Lot is a part of the Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed located in Bonita Springs, Florida. This institution is dedicated to preserving and protecting the water resources and natural communities of the watershed, which is the largest intact watershed in Southwest Florida. Partnering with organizations such as the South Florida Water Management District and the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, CREW works towards advancing land acquisition, management, and public use of the 70,000 acre watershed. Visitors to the CREW Trails can experience the beauty of the area year-round, with each season bringing unique changes to the plants and animals. The institution offers guided walks, environmental education programs, and special events for all ages to help cultivate future generations of CREW stakeholders and advocates. By becoming a member, attending programs, or donating to support land acquisition and environmental education, visitors can have a direct impact on protecting this important natural resource.

CREW Marsh Trails is a unique institution located at 4600 Corkscrew Road in Immokalee, Florida, United States. This campground, lodging, and park is dedicated to preserving and protecting the water resources and natural communities of the Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed. With over 70,000 acres of land, CREW is the largest intact watershed in Southwest Florida, spanning both Lee and Collier Counties. Partnering with organizations such as the South Florida Water Management District and the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, CREW Marsh Trails helps to advance land acquisition, management, and public use of the watershed. They also provide environmental and watershed education for all ages, cultivating future generations of stakeholders and advocates.

Florida Panther NWR Hiking Trails is a part of the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge, dedicated to the protection of the Florida Panther and its habitat. Located at 14041 Florida 29 in Naples, Florida, this park offers a unique opportunity to explore the refuge and its diverse wildlife. While most of the refuge is closed to the public, visitors can still enjoy hiking trails that provide a glimpse into the natural beauty of the area. Situated in a crucial wildlife corridor in South Florida, the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge is surrounded by other conserved public lands, making it a vital piece of the region's ecosystem. The refuge is home to not only the endangered Florida Panther, but also a variety of other wildlife species that thrive in this protected environment.

Francis S Taylor Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is a beautiful park located in Florida, United States. This institution is dedicated to preserving and protecting the natural habitats and wildlife that call this area home. Visitors to Francis S Taylor WMA can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The park offers a peaceful and serene environment for individuals and families to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the outdoors. Whether you are looking for a relaxing day in nature or an exciting adventure, Francis S Taylor WMA has something for everyone to enjoy.

Airboat Rides Miami is a premier travel agency located in the heart of Everglades National Park at 24050 Southwest 8th Street, Miami, Florida. As one of the few facilities operating within the park, we offer daily airboat tours departing every 20-30 minutes, allowing you to explore the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. Our experienced guides will help you spot a variety of wildlife, including alligators, soft-shelled turtles, and unique birds native to the Florida Everglades. Private airboat tours are also available for a more personalized experience, with the option to book by the hour for extended trips into the park.

Solary Park is a beautiful institution located in the Oviedo Historic Downtown Area in Florida, United States. This park offers a range of amenities including boardwalks, rain gardens, littoral zones, and Florida-Friendly LandscapingTM. It is also conveniently situated near the Florida National Scenic Trail, providing direct access for visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area. Educational display boards are scattered throughout the park, providing valuable information on conservation areas, watersheds, and the benefits of preserving natural floodplains. The park also features an enhanced stormwater management system, allowing local businesses to utilize the drainage capacity for their properties. This system plays a crucial role in facilitating development and redevelopment in the Historic Downtown Area.

Walton County Environmental is a leading institution located at 362 Florida 83 in DeFuniak Springs, Florida, United States. We are dedicated to preserving and protecting the environment in Walton County through education, research, and community engagement. Our team of experts works tirelessly to promote sustainable practices and conservation efforts to ensure a healthy and thriving ecosystem for future generations. Join us in our mission to make a positive impact on the environment and create a more sustainable future for all.

Located in the beautiful Destin, Florida, Doctor's Orders Beach House offers a serene getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Situated at 4702 Seastar Vista, these beach house rentals provide a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the Destiny West lake. Each floor is equipped with balconies to enjoy the picturesque surroundings, and the bedrooms offer balconies for waking up to spectacular sunrises over the lake. The Crows Nest provides one of the best views in all of Destin, making these rentals a perfect choice for a relaxing vacation. Doctor's Orders Beach House is ideal for large groups, as Doctor's Orders 1 and Doctor's Orders 2 can be rented together to accommodate up to 26 people. The houses are surrounded by nature, with various wildlife such as sea hawks, pelicans, herons, and dolphins adding to the charm of the location. The Gulf of Mexico is just two blocks away, offering crystal-clear waters and powder-soft sand for a rejuvenating beach experience.

DoctorsOrdersDestin #2 is a real estate and travel agency located at 87 Sunfish Street in Destin, Florida, United States. Specializing in vacation rentals, the institution offers Doctor’s Orders Beach Houses for those looking to escape the stresses of everyday life. Situated in a peaceful location near Destiny West lake, these beach house rentals provide stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere. With balconies on each floor and bedrooms overlooking the lake, guests can wake up to spectacular sunrises and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The houses are perfect for large groups, accommodating up to 26 people when rented together. In addition to the beautiful surroundings, guests can enjoy the nearby Gulf of Mexico, with its sparkling waters and powder-soft sand. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including sea hawks, pelicans, dolphins, and more. Each house also features a private pool, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the warm Florida weather. Managed by owners Ken & Franni Whiteside, Doctor’s Orders Beach Houses are tastefully decorated and well-maintained to ensure a memorable vacation experience. Guests can explore the nearby restaurants, shops, and golf courses, or simply relax and unwind in this idyllic beachfront setting. For a truly rejuvenating getaway, consider booking a stay at DoctorsOrdersDestin #2.

Paddle Florida Inc. is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) corporation located in Gainesville, Florida, United States. This travel agency is dedicated to supporting canoeing and kayaking in Florida by organizing multi-day paddling/camping adventures in each of Florida's five water management districts. These adventures showcase the state's natural beauty and cultural heritage while promoting water conservation, wildlife preservation, springs restoration, and waterways protection. Paddle Florida scouts trips in advance to ensure safe and comfortable conditions for paddlers, providing meal plans and gear shuttling to make the experience hassle-free. Each evening, Florida-based entertainment and educational programming are offered by regional artists, musicians, authors, and naturalists. Paddle Florida also partners with local outfitters to provide paddlers with canoes, kayaks, and other gear as needed.

Welcome to The Reserve at Homosassa Springs! Nestled in the heart of Homosassa, Florida, The Reserve at Homosassa Springs offers a charming and convenient retreat for those 55 and older. Located at 8975 West Halls River Road, our community is the perfect blend of tranquility and accessibility. Just a short stroll away, you'll find grocery stores and delightful restaurants, making everyday errands a breeze. Plus, with Suncoast Boulevard (US-19) nearby, exploring surrounding cities is easy and convenient.

Welcome to Alva Boat Ramp, your gateway to the serene waters of Alva, Florida. Conveniently located at 21580 Pearl Street, Alva, Florida 33920, our public boat ramp is open from dawn to dusk, seven days a week, providing easy access to the beautiful waterways for both locals and visitors. Operated and maintained by Lee County Parks & Recreation since 1967, Alva Boat Ramp offers 15 parking spots for your convenience. A parking fee of $5 per day applies to all vehicles, and Lee County Parking Stickers are accepted at this location. Please note that a Saltwater Fishing License is required for Florida residents who fish from shore, with some exclusions applicable.

Welcome to Hidden Cypress Preserve Nestled in the heart of Bonita Springs, Florida, Hidden Cypress Preserve is a captivating natural sanctuary that spans 428 acres of unspoiled beauty. Located at Liberty Youth Ranch Way, this remarkable park and tourist attraction offers a serene escape into nature's diverse ecosystems.