Details

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Know Before You Go​

  • Cuscowilla Nature and center is open and operational.​

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  • Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center
    • Basketball Basketball
    • Concession Concession
    • Camping Camping
    • Rest Rooms Rest Room
    • Swimming Swimming
    • Volleyball Volleyball

    History

    Cuscowilla Logo 

    The major Seminole community in the Gainesville, Florida area in the 18th century was Cuscowilla. While the exact location of Cuscowilla is unknown, it was located near Paynes Prairie and today's town of Micanopy. When Alachua County purchased the 211-acre YMCA Camp McConnell near Micanopy, it honored this history by renaming the property Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center. The property was purchased in 2017 using the Wild Spaces Public Places surtax. The same funding source is being used to improve the property. Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center is located at 210 SE 134 Ave. Micanopy, Florida 32667.

    Renovations

    Renovations for the Nature Center area close to completion. Projects completed in 2024 were the large roof over the tennis court and  fire pit with seating at the Nature Center. Upcoming projects include a solar parking lot lighting system.​

    Swimming

    The Olympic size swimming pool is open to the public on weekends beginning Memorial Day through Labor Day from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (weather permitting). Day passes are available for $5. Alachua County residents can purchase a $25 season pass. Passes can be purchased onsite or online by clicking “Register & Reserve” and then "Pool Pass", under the Memberships tab. For cash payments, please bring  exact change.

    Rentals

    Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center is available for rentals including overnight cabin stays, primitive camping, archery, pavilion, lodge, grounds, and indoor meeting space. For more information on availability, or for a quote, please email Cuscowilla@alachuacounty.us or call us at 352-574-2372.

    Park Areas

    Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center is open for the public to enjoy our walking trails, picnic areas, 18 hole disc golf course, sport courts and open space. Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. everyday. 

    Summer Camp

    Summer Camp 2025 registration is open. Day Camp (offered Monday through Friday) is offered for those going into 2nd grade - going into 6th grade, From June 9 - July 25. From archery to canoeing, interactive education, swimming lessons, team sports, to arts and crafts, campers will develop relationships, experience achievement, and create a sense of belonging. Each week is different than the last, so come for a week or stay for the entire summer! Breakfast/lunch and bus transportation to/from Lincoln Middle School is provided. The Friends of Cuscowilla offer scholarships for eligible campers. For more information contact: cuscowilla@alachuacounty.us
    Teen Camp 
    New this summer! Teen Camp is offered for current Middle Schoolers ( going into 6th grade - going into 8th grade ) for 4 weeks in June and July. Two field trips weekly and high adventure programming will keep your teen busy and engaged this summer. For more information contact: cuscowilla@alachuacounty.us

    Fish Camp​
    Fish Camp provides 10-14 year olds with hands on and classroom training on Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) curriculum. This weeklong camp will teach fishing basics including rigging a fishing pole, bait, fish ID, fish anatomy, fish handling, ethical angling, knot tying, casting, tackle overview, aquatic habitats, food webs, and basic boating skills. All participants get to keep their tacklebox and fishing rod! Breakfast/lunch and bus transportation to/from Lincoln Middle School is provided by the Alachua County School Board. The  Friends of Cuscowilla offer scholarships for eligible campers. For more information contact: cuscowilla@alachuacounty.us​


    Friends of Cuscowilla logo

    Friends of Cuscowilla is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization in Alachua County, Florida, formed in 2020. The organization was formed to assist with improvements, programming, special events, tours, and fundraising for Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center. This volunteer organization is made up of working professionals, retirees, students, and community members whose mission is to support Alachua County in its efforts by raising funds, recruiting volunteers, and sponsoring events at Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center.

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