Wildlife park experience in Plant City, Florida

Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park, located at 3540 Thomasville Road in Tallahassee, Florida, is a stunning park and tourist attraction that offers a unique and beautiful experience for visitors. The gardens, originally planted in 1923 by Alfred B. and Louise Maclay, feature a variety of floral architecture including camellias and azaleas, a picturesque brick walkway, a secret garden, a reflection pool, and a walled garden. Lake Hall at the park provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking, with boats without gas-powered motors allowed. Picnic pavilions and grills along the lakeshore offer a perfect spot for a relaxing meal. For nature lovers, there are two short nature trails that wind through the woods overlooking the lake, as well as six miles of shared-use trails and five miles of designated biking trails for hikers, bicyclists, and equestrians.

Lake Jackson Mounds State Park is a historical and natural treasure located in Tallahassee, Florida. The park features six of the seven known earthen temple mounds, with two open for public viewing. Visitors can explore the interpretive trail showcasing remnants of Florida's Territorial Period and early statehood, as well as the nature trail winding through a sandhill community with native trees and plants. Picnic tables and a pavilion are available for gatherings, with guided tours offered upon request. Wildlife viewing and bird-watching opportunities abound at Lake Jackson. Please note that the boardwalk to the large mound will be closed starting July 7, 2023. Admission is $3 per vehicle, payable via honor box with correct change required. Come and experience the rich history and natural beauty of Lake Jackson Mounds State Park.

Torreya State Park, located at 2576 Northwest Torreya Park Road in Bristol, Florida, is a stunning institution that offers visitors a unique and picturesque experience. The park features high bluffs that overlook the Apalachicola River, providing breathtaking views that make it one of Florida's most scenic places. Originally developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, Torreya State Park is a popular destination for camping, hiking, and picnicking. Bird-watching is also a favorite activity, with over 100 species of birds that have been spotted in the park.

Sweetwater Wetlands Park, located at 325 Southwest Williston Road in Gainesville, Florida, is a unique institution that serves as both a park and a tourist attraction. This 125-acre park was specifically created to improve the water quality of wetlands in Paynes Prairie and the Floridan Aquifer, making it a vital part of environmental conservation efforts in the area. Visitors to Sweetwater Wetlands Park can enjoy exploring the diverse habitat filled with plants and animals, including birds, butterflies, and alligators. The park features over 3.5 miles of crushed gravel trails and boardwalks, viewing platforms, and educational signs and tours that provide insight into the surrounding ecosystem.

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.

Eagle Lake Park, located at 1800 Keene Road in Largo, Florida, is a 162-acre park that offers a beautiful natural setting for visitors to enjoy. The park features a restored wetlands section with native plants, as well as amenities with a citrus grove theme, paying homage to the land's former use for citrus growing. Visitors to Eagle Lake Park can take advantage of the park's open hours, from 7 a.m. to sunset, seven days a week. The park is a popular tourist attraction in the area, and is a great place for residents and visitors alike to relax and enjoy nature.

Alderman's Ford Conservation Park, located in Plant City, Florida, is a historic site with a rich history dating back to 1848 when settler James Alderman built his homestead in the area. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking, birdwatching, fishing, and canoeing along the Alafia River. One of the park's highlights is a 1.9 mile paved loop trail that winds through the lush woods of cypress and oak trees, offering stunning views of the river. The park also features four remote campsites for those looking to experience a true wilderness adventure.

The Arboretum at Constitution Park is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 66-124 Deer Creek Road in Deerfield Beach, Florida, United States. This serene and well-maintained arboretum features a diverse collection of trees and plants, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and those looking to relax and unwind in a peaceful setting. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, picnics, and educational programs while exploring the natural beauty of this unique park. With its picturesque surroundings and tranquil atmosphere, the Arboretum at Constitution Park is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a rejuvenating outdoor experience.

Yellow River Marsh Preserve State Park is a stunning natural gem located in Milton, Florida. This park is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, as it boasts one of Florida's last remaining tracts of wet prairie. The park is home to the largest community of pitcher plants in the state, which passively trap insects in their tube-shaped leaves. Situated on Garcon Point, which separates Escambia Bay from Blackwater Bay, the park is home to nearly 20 rare and endangered species of plants and animals. Visitors can explore the bay, wet prairies, dome swamps, and flatwoods while enjoying the picturesque landscapes.

St. Andrews State Park, located at 4607 State Park Lane in Panama City, Florida, is a popular tourist attraction and park. The park offers a unique experience with the Gulf of Mexico on one side and St. Andrews Bay on the other, providing opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing. Visitors can purchase tickets for the shuttle to Shell Island online or at the park, with credit cards accepted. The park has a rich history, with Theodore Tollofson, also known as "Teddy the Hermit," homesteading in his shipwrecked boat at the park for 25 years after a hurricane in 1929. Today, visitors can enjoy the sugar white sands, emerald green waters, and diverse wildlife that drew Teddy to St. Andrews.

San Felasco Park, located at 6400 Northwest 43rd Way in Gainesville, Florida, is a stunning forested oasis at the city's northwestern edge. Visitors can immerse themselves in the sounds of birdsong, the smell of pine trees, and the sight of colorful wildflowers as they wander through the park's hiking trails and boardwalks that wind through pine flatwoods and cypress swamps. Families can enjoy a playground, picnic shelters, and multiple grills, making it the perfect spot for a day outdoors together. The park also serves as a conservation area, with ongoing restoration activities on the north end. The City of Gainesville is dedicated to managing the natural area to benefit native plants and animals, including using prescribed fires to maintain the ecosystem. Visitors interested in learning more about prescribed fires can visit whyprescribedfire.org.

Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge, located at 2045 Mud Lake Road in De Leon Springs, Florida, is a picturesque park and tourist attraction that offers a wide range of outdoor activities. From nature photography and birding to hiking, fishing, and boating, visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the refuge. With fifteen miles of trails available for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the diverse wildlife and plant species that call the 21,574-acre refuge home. Situated along the St. Johns River, just 25 miles west of Daytona Beach, Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge was established to provide a sanctuary for migratory waterfowl and wading birds. As part of a 70-mile corridor of ecologically sensitive lands, the refuge plays a crucial role in conserving and protecting the diverse wildlife and habitats found in the area.

Highlands Hammock State Park, located at 5931 Hammock Road in Sebring, Florida, is a popular tourist attraction and park known for its diverse plant and animal life. The park is home to more rare and endemic species than any other Florida State Park, making it a unique and important conservation area. Visitors can explore the park's nine trails, including an elevated boardwalk through a cypress swamp, where they may encounter wildlife such as Florida panthers, black bears, deer, alligators, and various bird species. The park also offers a 3-mile bike loop and tram rides for a more leisurely experience.

Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park is a stunning natural oasis located at 4335 Firetower Road in Haines City, Florida, United States. This park is a popular tourist attraction that spans over 8,000 acres of diverse habitats including scrub, sandhill, and flatwoods, as well as 65 acres of submerged land. Visitors to the park can explore 6 miles of hiking trails, 7 miles of equestrian trails, and enjoy fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities. The park is home to a variety of rare plants and protected animal species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

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.

Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park North Cape Flats Trail is a stunning natural oasis located in Cape Coral, Florida. Covering an impressive 45,387 acres, this park is the third largest in the state of Florida and offers visitors a chance to explore over 100 miles of pristine shoreline along Charlotte Harbor. Visitors to the park can partake in a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, paddling, and wildlife observation. The park boasts diverse natural habitats including mangrove forests, marshes, scrublands, and pine flatwoods, making it a haven for a wide range of plant and animal species. Birdwatchers will especially enjoy the chance to spot wading birds, manatees, dolphins, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Located in Okeechobee, Florida, the Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This expansive grassland is a part of the Everglades headwaters and boasts the largest remaining tract of Florida dry prairie. The diverse ecosystem is home to a variety of rare, threatened, and endangered species, making it a paradise for bird-watchers and photographers. The park is also internationally recognized for its lack of light pollution, offering visitors a stunning view of the night sky. With camping opportunities and guided tours, visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the prairie and experience the wonders of this unique landscape. Whether you're looking to spot rare wildlife or simply enjoy the tranquility of nature, the Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park is a must-see destination in Florida.

Manatee Sightseeing and Wildlife Adventures is a tourist attraction and travel agency located at 525 Newport Drive in Naples, Florida, United States. Join us for an unforgettable one and a half hour tour exploring the Port of the Island’s Harbor and the Everglades in search of manatees, alligators, birds, and other wildlife. Our three-hour Beach Eco-Tour is perfect for all ages, with opportunities to see manatees, alligators, dolphins, and birds as we make our way to the 10,000 Islands. Relax on Whitehorse Key and watch dolphins play in the boat's wake. Our sunset cruise offers a chance to see manatees, alligators, and birds as we watch the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico. For a more hands-on experience, try our two and a half hour fishing tour in the backwaters of the Everglades. Learn about manatees and their diet of various plants, and discover the growing population of Florida manatees. Please note that wildlife sightings are not guaranteed as nature can be unpredictable. Join us at Port of the Islands Marina, Dock D for an adventure you won't forget!

The Fakahatchee Strand Preserve Park Office/Ranger Station is located at 137 34117 Coast Line Drive in Naples, Florida, United States. This institution serves as the main entrance to the largest state park in Florida, the Fakahatchee Strand Preserve. The park is a popular tourist attraction known for its unique plant and animal species that cannot be found anywhere else in the continental U.S. Visitors to the park may experience slight delays entering due to maintenance at the main entrance starting March 13, 2024. The emphasis at Fakahatchee Strand Preserve is on preserving its natural character, offering visitors a wilderness to explore and enjoy. The park is divided into four main use areas, each with its own trails and attractions such as the Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk, East River, Jones Grade lakes, and Janes Memorial Scenic Drive.

Located at 137 Coast Line Drive in Copeland, Florida, the Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park is a must-visit tourist attraction for nature lovers. As the largest state park in Florida, Fakahatchee is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species that are unique to this area. Visitors to the park can expect a focus on preserving the natural character of the area, with limited facilities and activities available to ensure a true wilderness experience. The park is divided into four main use areas, including the Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk, East River, Jones Grade lakes, and Janes Memorial Scenic Drive.

The John G. and Susan H. Dupuis Jr. Wildlife and Environmental Area is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 23500 Southwest Kanner Highway in Canal Point, Florida, United States. This institution is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the diverse wildlife and natural beauty of the region. Visitors can explore the area and observe a wide variety of animals in their natural habitats, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. With its lush landscapes and educational opportunities, the Dupuis Wildlife and Environmental Area is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Florida's natural environment.

Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park is a unique and beautiful park located in Key Largo, Florida. Originally planned as a condominium development, this park now preserves one of the largest tracts of West Indian tropical hardwood hammock in the country. With 84 protected species of plants and animals, including the American crocodile, wild cotton, and mahogany mistletoe, visitors have the opportunity to explore and discover the diverse flora and fauna of the area. The park offers over six miles of nature trails, perfect for birdwatching, photography, and leisurely walks. The paved trails are accessible to bicycles and wheelchairs, making it easy for visitors of all abilities to enjoy the natural beauty of the park. Self-guided nature trails are marked with informative signs about the ecosystem and wildlife, while ranger-guided tours are also available for a more in-depth experience.

Saint Marks River Preserve State Park is a beautiful natural oasis located in Tallahassee, Florida. Nestled along the banks of the St. Marks River headwaters, this park offers a serene picnic area and a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. With an extensive system of trails for hiking, horseback riding, and off-road bicycling, there is something for everyone to explore. The park's road network winds through upland pine forests, hardwood thickets, and natural plant communities along the river, providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor adventures. Wildlife is abundant in the park, with black bear, turkey, deer, fox, raccoon, and opossum all making appearances. The sounds of birds fill the air, adding to the peaceful ambiance of the park.

Escambia River State Wildlife Management Area is a beautiful park located in Milton, Florida, United States. This institution offers visitors the opportunity to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the area, with a focus on wildlife conservation and management. The park is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, making it a great destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking in this serene and peaceful environment. The Escambia River State Wildlife Management Area is a must-visit for anyone looking to connect with nature and experience the beauty of Florida's wildlife.

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.

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is a stunning natural oasis located at 7525 West County Highway 30A in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. The park is named for its majestic dunes that resemble the sails of a ship, overlooking the beautiful Gulf of Mexico. These white quartz dunes create a unique coastal ecosystem with freshwater dune lakes that are home to a variety of aquatic wildlife. Visitors to Topsail Hill can explore old-growth pine forests, sandy scrubland, dunes, and wetlands, where they may encounter some of the 13 imperiled species that call this park home. Keep an eye out for the rare Choctawhatchee beach mouse and other fascinating creatures like pitcher plants.

Located in Panama City, Florida, United States, the Camping Area at St Andrew's State Park offers a picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy the beauty of the Gulf of Mexico and St. Andrews Bay. With a variety of camping options, lodging accommodations, and park amenities, guests can immerse themselves in nature and outdoor activities. Please note that as of April 20, 2022, a portion of the gulf fishing pier is closed due to storm damage, but will reopen once repairs are complete. Visitors can also purchase tickets for the shuttle to Shell Island online or at the park, with credit cards accepted.

Steinhatchee Springs Wildlife Management Area is a stunning park and zoo located in Mayo, Florida, United States. This institution is dedicated to preserving and protecting the local wildlife and natural habitats in the area. Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds and observe a variety of native species in their natural environment. The park offers opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and photography, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of Steinhatchee Springs Wildlife Management Area.

The Cedar Key Scrub Wildlife Management Area is a stunning natural park located in Cedar Key, Florida. This beautiful area is a must-visit tourist attraction for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The park is home to a variety of native plant and animal species, offering visitors the opportunity to observe and appreciate the diverse ecosystem. With its well-maintained trails and scenic views, the Cedar Key Scrub Wildlife Management Area provides a peaceful and educational experience for all who visit. Whether you're interested in birdwatching, hiking, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, this park is sure to delight visitors of all ages. Come explore and experience the beauty of nature at the Cedar Key Scrub Wildlife Management Area.

Ocala Wetland Recharge Park is a beautiful natural oasis located in Ocala, Florida. This park is dedicated to preserving and protecting the local wetlands, providing a habitat for a variety of plant and animal species. Visitors can explore the park's walking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and educational exhibits that highlight the importance of wetland conservation. The park also serves as a recharge area for the local aquifer, helping to maintain the health of our water supply. Come visit Ocala Wetland Recharge Park and experience the beauty and tranquility of this unique natural environment.