- Cuscowilla
 Baseball  Basketball  Bicycling Trails  Concession  Camping  Horseback Riding Trails  Hiking /Nature Trail  Rest Room  Swimming  Tennis  Volleyball
The town of Micanopy holds a long Native American history. While the Indian trading post and white settlement was named Tuscawilla, Cuscowilla was the name given to the Capital Village of the local Seminole people. Cuscowilla was the dwelling of Chief Micanopy, and what was left of the Seminole tribe, before being captured, thereby ending the Second Seminole War. The Board of County Commissioners found it fitting to name the property Cuscowilla to honor this heritage.
The property was purchased by Alachua County in 2017 at public auction using the Wild Spaces Public Places surtax. The same funding source is being used to improve the property.
- Barr Hammock
- Baseball
- Bicycling Trails
- Horseback Riding Trails
- Hiking /Nature Trail
 Nature/ Wildlife
The 5,719-acre Barr Hammock Preserve was bought between 2006 & 2010. Alachua County provided funding from the Alachua County Forever Bond, and the Wild Spaces Public Places sales tax. Other funding was through Florida Communities Trust Grants, North American Wetland Conservation Act grants, a donation from the Whitehurst family, and the Southwest Florida Water Management District.The preserve was purchased to protect, preserve and enhance the unique natural and cultural resources found on the property and to provide an enjoyable and educational passive recreational experience. The northern Levy Loop Trail and the Southern Trail entrance. The trails that are accessible from each trailhead currently do not connect.
Levy
Loop Trail is open as of 5 p.m. Friday (8/20/21). A portion of the 6-mile loop
trail remains closed, so the full loop trail is not available, but out-and-back
trips are possible. Carefully review trail closure maps posted at
preserve trailheads before beginning your trip. For your safety, please
respect preserve and trail closures and stay off of closed trail areas.
Preserve Hours:8AM-6PM (November-April)
8AM-8PM (May-October)
Brochures
Barr Hammock Levy Loop
Barr Hammock South
Preserve Rules:
- No dogs on the Levy Loop trail, there are too many alligators
- Dogs on leash allowed at Barr Hammock South (300 SE 175th Ave)
- Feeding Alligators is dangerous and illegal (FAC68A-25.001)
- Pack out what you pack in.
- Leave what you find. Collecting plants, artifacts or fossils is prohibited.
- For your own safety, STAY ON THE LEVEE.
- Trails are for pedestrians and cyclists only.
- Cyclists and Equestrian users must use designated trails.
- Cyclists yield to horses and hikers.Hikers yield to horses.
- Equestrian users must provide proof of negative Coggins to enter the Preserve (FAC SC-18).
- Visitors who remain after hours are trespassing.
- Do not enter closed areas.
- Be a good neighbor to our neighbors
- Respect their privacy
- Stay on marked trails
- Park in the designated parking area
- Stay off private roads
- No taking, harassing, or killing of wildlife without written permission from Alachua County.
Advice For The Trails:
For your comfort and safety, wear sunscreen and a hat, use insect repellent, and carry water.
Do not approach alligators blocking the trails.
Levy Loop (6.5 miles) – The trail circles restored marsh. Walking the entire loop takes 3.5 to 4 hours at a leisurely pace. A leisurely bike ride takes about 2 hours. Under wet conditions the trail surface can be muddy and uneven.The South Levee Trail provides views of marsh and forest. It is partially shaded for most of its length. The North Levee Trail has neighboring homes for the first mile. Please be quiet and respect their privacy. The north side offers views of marsh and has no shade. Beware of alligators. NO DOGS ALLOWED.
Barr Hammock South entrance provides 13 miles of trails for hikers, bikers, and equestrian users:
- Piney Woods Loop - Equestrian Trail. Round trip length 4.5 miles. This trail travereses pinelands and ancient oak forests. This route is sandy and partially shaded.
- Bayhead Trail - Cyclist Trail. Round trip from trailhead outer loop is 2.8 miles, shortcut is 2.0 miles. Take a trip through swamps, sandhills, and hardwood forest with views of Still Branch Creek.
- Still Branch Crossing - Only pedestrians have a loop. 3.8 miles round trip for outer loop, 3.3 miles via shortcut. Bike and horse use to reach Hammock Loop or can travel there and back. The cyclist trail includes a bridged crossing of Still Branch Creek. The equestrial trail crosses teh creek where swamp turns to creek.
- Hammock Loop - The Hammock Loop is about 9 miles via cycling route and 8 miles via horse trail route round trip from the trailhead. These distances include traveling portions of the Bayhead and Still Branch trail to access the Hammock Loop. Under wet conditions, the back roads will be under water and only Main Road will be accessible. Mosquitoes may be abundant. This is a mostly shady trail sheltered by large old trees. The Landing Overlook has views of Ledwith Prairie that may include wading birds or waterfowl and other marsh creatures.
No water available in the parking area.
No restrooms. No picnic facilities.
Trail maps are available at the Preserve or you can request a brochure by email using the link on our contact page. Brochures are available in alternate format on request.
- Four Creeks Preserve
- Hiking /Nature Trail
- Nature/ Wildlife
Welcome to Four Creeks Preserve!
There is currently no parking at either entrance to the preserve. Visitors must walk or bike to reach the preserve.
Preserve Hours:
8:00 AM to 6:00 PM (November-April)
8:00 AM to 8:00 PM (May-October)
Brochure:
Four Creeks
Click here to tour Four Creeks Preserve
About the Preserve:
The 715-acre Four Creeks Preserve was jointly purchased by the Alachua County Forever Program and the City of Gainesville in September 2018 using funds from the Wild Spaces Public Places initiative. The preserve was purchased to protect a variety of upland and wetland habitats including the headwaters of four local creeks (Turkey Creek, Blues Creek, Possum Creek, and Hogtown Creek) which provide wildlife habitat and support aquifer recharge. The preserve is part of local and statewide efforts to protect and maintain significant wildlife corridors and protect areas of diverse habitats and relatively mature and diverse undisturbed forest within an area of Alachua County that is rapidly urbanizing. The preserve contains several hundred acres of wetland communities. This important feature means that trails may be seasonally flooded and may not be easily accessible during all times of the year. As the management plan for the preserve is finalized, trail and trailhead locations may change. The preserve is actively managed to improve the natural communities that exist here. Habitat restoration is needed due to historic fire suppression, especially in the pine flatwoods natural community. Prescribed fire, mowing, and other techniques will appear dramatic when implemented, but will help stimulate the recovery of diverse wildlife species and native groundcover over time. A 2.5 mile walking trail loop circles the heart of the preserve. The west side of the loop (1.1 mile long Yellow trail) is drier, while the east side of the loop (1.4 mile long Blue trail) will be more frequently flooded. During high water periods, both sides of the loop may have standing water. Due wet trail conditions, bikes are not allowed on the trail while we stabilize the trail surface.
Preserve Rules:
· Help keep the Preserve maintained:
o Pack out what you pack in. Don’t litter.
o Walking access only. No bicycles. No horses.
o Dogs must be on leashes.
o Help prevent erosion by staying on trails.
o No motorized vehicles except ADA equipment.
· For your safety:
o Stay on marked trails. Keep out of Closed Areas.
o Visitors who remain after hours are trespassing.
· Taking, harassing, or killing of plants and wildlife, and collecting of fossils or artifacts is not permitted.
Advice for the trails:
· Natural areas and wildlife may be hazardous. Use common sense and be cautious:
o Do not approach or harass wildlife.
· Be prepared for soft and uneven terrain:
o Some trails are maintained and disked as firebreaks.
o Under wet conditions some trails are flooded.
· Please respect our neighbors’ privacy by staying on marked trails.
· For your comfort and safety:
o Wear sunscreen and a hat, use insect repellent; carry water and a trail map
No drinking water available at the Preserve.
No restrooms. No picnic facilities.
Trail maps are available at the Preserve or you can request a brochure by email using the link on our contact page. Brochures are available in alternate format on request.
- Mark S. Hopkins Park
- Basketball
 Picnic w/o Shelter Play Equipment
The Mark S. Hopkins Park is the first pocket park developed by Alachua County. It is designed for pedestrian access and use by children from the surrounding Sugar Foot Oaks neighborhood ages 5 to 12.
- Scott-Phifer House
The foundation is all that is left of a several thousand acre plantation on the east side of Gainesville. The house and its circa 1900 kitchen addition stood until 2008, and was the only known ante-bellum house on the east side of the county.
The historic large beams that supported the house still show the inscribed Roman numerals used to properly assemble the framework.
A historic marker was placed on the site in 2016.
The foundation ruins may be observed from outside the fenced area.
- Watermelon Pond - Preserve
 Boat Ramp  Fishing - Hiking /Nature Trail
- Nature/ Wildlife
 Hunting
Access to the 440-acre Watermelon Pond Preserve is from the Watermelon Pond County Park. There are no marked trails, and activities are dictated by water levels. There may be no hiking areas during times of high water.
The preserve offers views of Watermelon Pond-a sandhill lake-and opportunties for wildlife viewing and bird watching. The County Park area has picnic facilties and a boat ramp. There are no restrooms.
For hunting information, contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 850-488-4676.
- Turkey Creek Preserve
- Bicycling Trails
- Horseback Riding Trails
- Hiking /Nature Trail
- Nature/ Wildlife
Turkey Creek Preserve
is open to public access as of 5pm Friday, 8/27/21. Three sections of
trail are closed due to unsafe conditions including flooding, erosion, and
hazardous trees. Loop routes are still possible with open trails.
Carefully review trail closure maps posted at preserve trailheads before
beginning your trip. For your safety, please respect preserve and trail
closures and stay off of closed trail areas.
The 376 acre, Turkey Creek Preserve
was purchased in 2009 with funding from the Wild Spaces Public Places sales tax
and is located between the cities of Gainesville and Alachua. This important acquisition helps buffer the
adjacent San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park providing more habitat for
wildlife and lessening developmental impacts to these natural areas. The Preserve encompasses many ecosystems
including basin swamp, depression marsh, bottomland forest, hydric hammock, upland
hardwood forest, black water streams, and sinkholes.
The preserve is home to a population
of native poppy mallows—an endangered plant species in Florida. A can’t miss is the large live oak tree along
the southern part of the Pineland Loop where visitors can relax on a bench
under the shade overlooking a large sinkhole.
The preserve’s namesake, Turkey Creek, meanders through about ¾ of a
mile in the north and east portions of the preserve. This creek flows through rural, suburban, and
agricultural areas before entering San Felasco Hammock where it enters into a
sinkhole draining into the Floridan Aquifer.
This means preserving this land helps protect not just the creek itself,
but also the source of our drinking water.
Visitors
can enjoy 5 miles of trails at Turkey Creek Preserve for hiking, off-road
bicycling, horse-back riding, and wildlife viewing. Please refer to the brochures and kiosk maps
before starting your route as some trails do not allow for bikes or
horses. Additionally, visitors can take
advantage of the ½ mile Fitness Trail with 7 work-out stations offering a
unique opportunity to skip the gym and exercise outdoors!
Entrances
Parking Area and Trailhead: The
main parking area and trailhead is located at
6300 NW 93rd Ave
Walk in Entrance: A walk in entrance
(no parking) is available at 10182 NW 59th Terr, Alachua
Preserve Hours
- 7am to 6pm October - March
- 7am to 8pm April - September
Brochures
Preserve Rules
“Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but
footprints, kill nothing but time.”
·
Open 365 days a year.
Visitors on the preserve outside these hours are trespassing. ·
Use the fitness
equipment only as intended by the manufacturer. Equipment is for users age 13
and above. Please see the labels on equipment for instructions on proper use. ·
Pack out what you
pack in. ·
Trails are for
pedestrians, bicyclists, and equestrian users only. Bikers must yield to hikers
and horses, hikers must also yield to horses. ·
Preserve patrons
may not establish new trails without permission from the county. ·
Help prevent
erosion by staying on the trails. ·
Collecting or
disturbing plants, animals, artifacts, or fossils is prohibited. ·
No taking,
harassing, or killing of wildlife without written permission from Alachua
County. ·
Leashed dogs are
allowed on trails provided owners pick up after them.
Advice for the Trails
·
Natural areas
& wildlife may be hazardous. Stay alert, stay on the established trails,
and stay safe. ·
During wet
weather trails may be under water. ·
Be prepared for
rough or soft trails – some roadways are utilized for fire breaks and are
periodically harrowed. ·
For your comfort
and safety, wear sunscreen or a hat, use insect repellent and carry water.
Hammock Loop (2 miles)—this moderate, mostly shaded loop blazed blue
travels through various habitats including mixed-upland hardwoods, marshes,
swamps, and sinkholes.
Pineland Loop (1.6 miles)—this moderate trail is blazed orange and
loops through the upland pine portion of the preserve.
Fitness Trail (0.5 miles)—this short section of trail starts and ends
on the Hammock Loop and features 7 exercise stations. Exercise equipment is for users age 13 and
above and visitors should refer to the posted rules and instructions along the
trail and at each exercise station. Horses are not allowed on this trail.
Turkey Creek Loop (0.5 miles)—this short, loop near the Walk-in Entrance
meanders through hydric hammock and along Turkey Creek. Please stay out of the creek to protect the
stream and prevent erosion. The trail is
blazed yellow and horses and bicycles are not allowed on this trail.
Connector trails between the Hammock
Loop and Pineland Loop are blazed white, and service roads are unmarked and are
not as well maintained as the marked trails.
Stay out of Closed Areas.
No drinking water available at the
Preserve.
No Restrooms. No picnic facilities.
Trail maps and brochures are available
at the Preserve and can be provided in a different format if requested.
- Sweetwater Preserve
- Bicycling Trails
- Hiking /Nature Trail
- Nature/ Wildlife
PRESERVE UPDATE - No Parking at West Trailhead,
beginning Monday, October 4th at 6:00am.
The Sweetwater Preserve - West Trailhead, located at SE 16th
Ave. and Williston Rd in Gainesville, will be temporarily closed for
construction improvements beginning Monday October 4th at 6:00 am. The
construction will provide official parking spaces, improved management and
water quality treatment of stormwater runoff, erosion control in the Preserve,
and will be integrated into a larger public trail system within the City of
Gainesville. Vehicles may not be parked on the SE 16th Ave.
spur road after 6:00 am on Monday October 4th. For visitor safety, the
public is expected to observe all closure and warning signs and not enter the
construction area at any time during the construction. This project is
supported by funding from Alachua County, the City of Gainesville, and the
Florida Department of Environmental Protection to protect water quality in
Sweetwater Branch, Paynes Prairie, and the Floridan Aquifer, as well as to
improve public access to the preserve and trails. Pedestrians and cyclists may still access Sweetwater
Preserve – West Trails via a temporary trailhead along the power line
right-of-way south of the 16th Ave spur road, however there will be no parking
available during the construction.
Visitors traveling by car may still access Sweetwater
Preserve from the East Trailhead by parking at the City of Gainesville’s
Boulware Springs park and walking a short distance up the Gainesville-Hawthorne
Trail.
Construction is estimated to be complete in January, 2022,
but updates will be provided if that date changes. The preserve will
still be opened from sunrise to sunset; visitors on the Preserve outside these
hours are trespassing.
-----------------------------End of Notice----------------------------
The 125 acre Sweetwater Preserve was bought in 2006 by Alachua County with funding from the Alachua County Forever Bond and a Florida Communities Trust Grant. The preserve was purchased to protect, preserve and enhance the unique natural and cultural resources found on the property and to provide an enjoyable and educational passive recreational experience.
Sweetwater Preserve is adjacent to Paynes Prarie Preserve State Park, and offers 3 miles of unpaved trails, served by two separate trail heads. The 1.75 mile West Trail is located at the east terminus of SE 16th avenue and meanders through hardwoods and floodplain. The 1.2 mile East Trail is located approximately 1/3 mile north of Boulware Springs Park, along the paved Gainesville-Hawthorne Rail-Trail. Park at Boulware Springs and access the preserve by walking north along the GHRT. The East and West trails are connected via bridge.
Preserve Hours:
Preserve Brochure:
Sweetwater Preserve Brochure March 2020.pdf
Preserve Rules:
Pack out what you pack in. Trails are for pedestrians and cyclists only Multi use trails are used by hikers and bikers; bikers must yield to hikers. Preserve patrons may not establish new trails without permission from Alachua County. Help prevent erosion by staying on the trails. Leashed dogs are allowed on trails provided owners pick up after them. Collecting plants, artifacts, or fossils is prohibited. No taking, harassing, or killing of wildlife without written permission from Alachua County.
Advice For The Trails:
Natural areas and wildlife may be hazardous. Stay alert, stay on the established trails, and stay safe. During wet weather, trails may be under water. Be prepared for rough or soft trails. Some roadways are used for firebreaks and are periodically harrowed. For your comfort and safety wear sunscreen and a hat, use insect repellent, and carry water.
West Trail - Rating: Easy. This series of loop trails meander 1.75 miles along Sweetwater Branch and through upland mixed and floodplain forests. Much of this area was pasture many years ago and the native species you see have naturally recruited into the area.
Sandy Trail - Rating: Moderate. In a short 1.2 mile walk you will see 8 different natural communities including; sandhill, xeric hammock, sinkhole lake, baygall, seepage stream, upland mixed forest, mesic flatwoods and floodplain forest.
Intersections on the West Trail have been numbered to help orient visitors to the trail.
No picnic or restroom facilities.
Trail maps are available at the Preserve or you can request a brochure by emailing the link on our contact page. Brochures are available in alternate format on request.
- Mill Creek Nature Preserve
- Hiking /Nature Trail
- Nature/ Wildlife
1,230-acre preserve with 5 miles of unpaved trails. Property is unique for its mix of southernmost extent of Applachian hardwood forest, small waterfall and pine flatwoods. American Beech trees can be observed here in their southernmost extent. Mill Creek Preserve was purchased in 2002 by Alachua County with funding from the Alachua County Forever Bond and a Florida Communities Trust Grant. The preserve was purchased to protect, preserve and enhance the unique natural and cultural resources found on the property and to provide an enjoyable and educational passive recreational experience.
Preserve Hours:
Preserve Brochures
Mill Creek Preserve Brochure_2020.pdf
Preserve Rules:
Pack our what you pack in. Trails are for pedestrians only. Help prevent erosion by staying on the trails. Leashed dogs are allowed on the trails provided owners pick up after them. Collecting plants, artifacts or fossils is prohibited. No taking, harassing, or killing of wildlife without written permission from Alachua County.
Advice For The Trails:
During wet weather, trails may be under water. Be prepared for rough or soft trails-some roadways are utilized for fire breaks and are periodically harrowed. For your comfort and safety, wear sunscreen and a hat, use insect repellent, and carry water.
Trails:
Shortcut Trail – Utilizing the shortcut trail removes one half mile from West Trail/Hammock Trail, and still allows the walker to experience many of the same natural communities. West Trail/Hammock Trail. Rating-Moderate. This 3.0 mile trail takes the walker through many of the preserve habitats, including pineland, and hammock. The Hammock portion of the trail crosses tributaries of Townsend Branch and in this section you can see American beech trees and many other species. Allow several hours. Unmarked Service Roads and Firebreaks— You are welcome to walk on service roads and firebreaks. Please note: roads and firebreaks have no directional signs. Marsh Trail – Rating: Easy. This 0.6 mile trail features views of pine plantation that will be restored to pine flatwoods and a seasonally flooded grassy marsh. Allow 30 minutes for a relaxed walk. Old Providence Trail. Rating: Easy to Moderate. Along this 1.4 mile trail you walk along a portion of Old Providence Road/Fort Call Road, an historic road that early residents of the county used. You will see Townsend Branch Creek, pinelands, swamp and hardwood forests with American beech trees. The trail narrows to a single track as you approach the creek. Allow 1 hour at a relaxed pace.
No picnic or restroom facilities.
Trail maps are available at the Preserve or you can request a brochure by emailing the link on our contact page. Brochures are available in alternate format on request.
- Longleaf Flatwoods Reserve
- Bicycling Trails
- Horseback Riding Trails
- Hiking /Nature Trail
- Nature/ Wildlife
This preserve was purchased with Alachua County Forever funds and is jointly owned with St. John's Water Management District. The 2,742-acre Preserve contains 6.25 miles of unpaved trails through pine flatwoods and cypress swamp. All trails are accessed through the main parking area on CR 235. A primitive group campsite is available for reservation (contact St. John's Water Management District for information and reservations).
No picnic or restroom facilities.
This Preserve is managed by St. John's Water Management District. For more information, visit St. John's Water Management District website.
Trail maps are available though St. John's Water Management District.
- Phifer Flatwoods
- Bicycling Trails
- Horseback Riding Trails
- Hiking /Nature Trail
- Nature/ Wildlife
634-acre Preserve with 3.5 miles of unpaved trails through pine flatwoods and cypress swamp. Trails accessible from the paved Gainesville-Hawthorne Rail-Trail. Parking Lot at Intersection of County Road 2082 and County Road 325 on the GHRT. The purchase of Phifer Flatwoods Preserve was made possible by the dedication and quick action of Alachua Conservation Trust and its many friends and supporters. In 2005 the land was put up for auction and nearly purchased by a Louisiana developer. Aware of the critical tim-ing in the pending sale, ACT quickly rallied the support of the local community, receiving loans from more than 50 individuals, foundations, and non-profit groups, and gifts from more than 250 households. This valiant group effort raised nearly $3 million for the initial land pur-chase. Alachua County purchased Phifer Flatwoods from ACT using Alachua County Forever funds and a Florida Communities Trust Grant, protecting the land for future generations.
Preserve Hours:
Preserve Rules:
Pack out what you pack in. Trails are for cyclists, equestrians, and hikers only. Trails are multi-use. Cyclists myst yield to hikers and equestrians. Preserve visitors may not establish new trails. Help prevent erosion by staying on the trails. Leashed dogs are allowed on trails provided owners pick up after them. Collecting plants, artifacts, or fossils is prohibited. No taking, harassing, or killing of wildlife without written permission from Alachua County.
Advice For The Trails:
- Natural areas and wildlife may be hazardous.
Stay alert, stay on the established trails, and stay safe. Established trails are marked with blue blazes and signs; other roads and firebreaks are unmarked. During wet weather, trails may be under water. Be prepared for uneven terrain; some trails are maintained as firebreaks. For your comfort and safety, wear sunscreen and a hat, use insect repellent, and carry water.
Marsh Trail Trailhead: access by taking GHRT 0.6 miles east from Main Parking Lot. 0.6 mile loop trail through pine flatwoods with an observation area on the edge of a marsh. The trail contains small steep hills and patches of deep sand and gravel.
Swamp Trail Trailhead. Access by taking GHRT 1.25 miles east from Main Parking Lot. 1 mile loop trail through pine flatwoods with an observation area on the edge of a swamp. The trail contains small steep hills and patches of deep sand and gravel.
Turpentine Loop Trailhead. Accessible from CR 2082, head 9/10 mile west on CR 2082. 1.3 mile loop trail through dense pine plantation and pine flatwoods, dotted with small marshes. The trail contains several wet crossings and patches of deep sand and gravel.
Overlook Trail. 0.5 mile loop trail through pine flatwoods and hardwood hammock with an elevated overlook in a magnificent cypress swamp. The trail contains mud patches during the rainy season.
Trails may be wet and seasonally flooded.
No picnic facilities. No restrooms.
Trail maps are available at the Preserve or you can request a brochure by emailing the link on our contact page. Brochures are available in alternate format on request.
- Lake Alto Preserve
- Bicycling Trails
- Horseback Riding Trails
- Hiking /Nature Trail
- Nature/ Wildlife
Lake Alto trails are OPEN
662-acre preserve on Lake Alto with 4.6 miles of unpaved trails through pine flatwoods and lake shore hardwood forest. With nearly 1 mile of undeveloped shoreline on Lake Alto, this preserve includes distinct natural communities, and an outstanding view of Lake Alto from the dock, which is accessible from both trails. Both north and south trailheads provide access to all trails. Funding for acquisition of Lake Alto Preserve was provided by the voter-approved Alachua County Forever Bond. The Suwannee River Water Manage-
ment District co-owns 120 acres of Lake Alto Preserve with Alachua County.
Preserve Hours:
Preserve Rules:
Enter the preserve through designated trail heads only Visitors who remain after hours are trespassing Pack out what you pack in. Trails are for cyclists, equestrians, and hikers only Trails are multi use. Cyclists myst yield to hikers and equestrians Preserve visitors may not establish new trails Help prevent erosion by staying on the trails. Collecting or disturbing plants, artifacts, or fossils is prohibited. Leashed dogs are allowed on trails provided owners pick up after them. No taking, harassing, or killing of wildlife without written permission from Alachua County.
Advice For The Trails:
Natural areas and wildlife may be hazardous Established trails are marked with trail signs; other roads are unmarked. Stay alert, stay on the marked trails, and stay safe. During wet weather, trails may be flooded. Be preapred for uneven terrain; some trails are harrowed (disked) for firebreaks. For your comfort and safety, wear sunscreen and a hat, use insect repellent and carry water.
Lake Alto North Trail Guide - All trails are flat, crossing pinelands and swamp habitat. Trails may flood during wet weather. Trails may be rough, uneven and wet, with areas of soft sand or mud.
Treefrog Trail - 0.8 mile Crosses the Lake View Loop. Lake View Loop - 1.7 miles Loop trail between the Lake Alto dock and County Road 1471. Black Bear Loop - 0.9 mile Begins and ends on Lake View Loop.
Lake Alto South Trail Guide - Most of the trails are generally flat, crossing pinelands and hammock habitats. A short but steep hill is located at each end of the canal bank footpath. Trails may flood during wet weather. Trail surfaces may be rough, uneven and wet, with areas of roots, soft sand or mud.
No watercraft launch, picnic or restroom facilities at the Preserve. Dock accessible to watercraft on Lake Alto and to hikers from the Preserve. Watercraft launch facilities available at Lake Alto Park (17800 NE 134th Place Waldo FL).
Alligators may be present.
No potable water available.
Trail maps are available at the Preserve or you can request a brochure by emailing the link on our contact page. Brochures are available in alternate format by request.
- Newnans Lake Conservation Area
- Bicycling Trails
- Horseback Riding Trails
- Hiking /Nature Trail
- Nature/ Wildlife
- Hunting
This preserve was purchased jointly with St. John's Water Management District, using Alachua County Forever funds. It is managed by St. John's Water Management District. For more information, visit the St. John's Water Management District website.
Opportunities for wildlife viewing including bald eagles and turkeys.
6,504 acres with 7.3 miles of unpaved trails through pine flatwoods. Open for hunting during the season. Please call the contact number for information. No picnic or restroom facilities.
Alligators are present, please be vigilant.
- Cellon Oak Park
- Nature/ Wildlife
- Picnic w/o Shelter
The Cellon Live Oak is a Florida Co-Champion Live Oak named for its former owner, Ralph W. Cellon. The oak's circumference is 30 feet, it is 85 feet tall and its crown spread is 160 feet.
The park offers a picturesque setting for small outdoor weddings and family pictures. Please observe a 20' perimeter around the tree to protect its root system. Do not hang or attach anything to the tree.
Cellon Oak Park does not have restrooms. Two picnic tables and a grill are available for public use.
A walking path and garden are planned for Cellon Oak Park.
- Copeland Park
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Picnic w/o Shelter
 Picnic with Shelter - Play Equipment
- Rest Room
Copeland Park is a community park, serving the Coco Plum neighborhood and surrounding area.
The basketball court was recently resurfaced, and other improvements planned include extending the sidewalk to be ADA compliant and connect the main sidewalk to the picnic area to the basketball court area.
- Earl P. Powers Park
- Boat Ramp
- Fishing
- Nature/ Wildlife
- Picnic w/o Shelter
- Picnic with Shelter
- Play Equipment
- Rest Room
The county owned park was named “Earl P. Powers Park” in recognition of the great accomplishments and outstanding services by Earl P. Powers in the community, Alachua County and to the State of Florida.
New shoreline preservation overlooks are planned along the canal, which will allow fishing and wildlife observation, while protecting the delicate habitat along the shore. A new play system and floating dock were recently installed.
Large alligators are abundant.
- Grove Park
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Picnic w/o Shelter
- Picnic with Shelter
- Play Equipment
Grove Park serves the rural Hawthorne area. The park offers a playground and a shelter with tables.
Grove Park does not have restrooms.
- High Springs Boat Ramp
- Boat Ramp
The High Springs Boat Ramp provides recreational access to the Santa Fe River via a single launch ramp.
No restrooms available.
- Holden Pond
- Boat Ramp
- Fishing
- Picnic with Shelter
In addition to a boat launch, Holden Pond has a covered pavilion with a number of picnic tables, and also a picnic shelter.
No restrooms.
- Kanapaha Botanical Gardens
- Concession
- Hiking /Nature Trail
- Nature/ Wildlife
- Picnic w/o Shelter
- Picnic with Shelter
Kanapaha Botanical Gardens were leased to the North Florida Botanical Society for 90 years in 1979. The gardens are home to 24 collections, making it an ideal location to celebrate your next special occasion. For more information, please visit the official website at: www.kanapaha.org.
- Marjorie K. Rawlings Park
- Boat Ramp
- Fishing
- Nature/ Wildlife
- Picnic w/o Shelter
- Picnic with Shelter
- Play Equipment
- Rest Room
The Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Park offers access to Orange Lake via the Kate Barnes Boat Ramp. The park also offers a play area, a large pavilion and picnic areas. Be sure to visit the Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park and its restored homestead, which is next door.
Large alligators are abundant.
- Poe Springs Park
- Baseball
- Boat Ramp
 Canoeing Access - Fishing
 Football /Soccer - Hiking /Nature Trail
- Nature/ Wildlife
- Picnic w/o Shelter
- Picnic with Shelter
- Play Equipment
- Rest Room
- Swimming
- Volleyball
Welcome to Poe Springs!
New park hours starting October 1. Park open everyday from 8am to 5pm.
Poe Spring Park will be open 7 days a week starting Saturday May 29, 2021. The spring and boat ramp will close 30 minutes prior to dusk each day.
There is a $6.00 per vehicle parking charge at Poe Springs, cash only please.
Fees waived for individuals with disabilities.
If you need assistance please speak with the attendant.
The Park may close when the Spring reaches capacity of 100 persons.
The park is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day.
Park amenities include pavilions and picnic shelters, play areas, multi purpose fields, volleyball courts, and bar-b-que grills. There are loop trails throughout the park for hiking, and a boardwark that traverses the cypress swamp leads visitors to the springs. A boat launch and dock afford watercraft access to the river.
You can now choose from 2 pavillions and pay $40.00 to reserve one. Please go to: alachua.recdesk.com You will have to create an account and then go to facilities to choose the pavilion you wish to reserve.
The Lodge At Poe Springs is available for event rentals, and is perfect for birthday parties, showers, and small weddings. Indoor seating can be arranged for up to 54 people conference style, and there is a kitchen (stove, refrigerator, sink) included in the rental fee. Restrooms are on-site, and there is additional picnic table seating under the attached pavilion. Call us at 352-264-6868 to check date availability, rates, and to request a facilities use agreement.
- Santa Fe Lake Park
- Boat Ramp
- Nature/ Wildlife
- Picnic w/o Shelter
- Picnic with Shelter
- Play Equipment
Santa Fe Lake Park provides a boat ramp, shelter and a newly installed play area with adult fitness. Citizens may bring their own kayaks, canoes or other watercraft and launch here.
You can now choose from 2 pavillions and pay $40.00 to reserve one. Please go to: alachua.recdesk.com You will have to create an account and then go to facilities to choose the pavilion you wish to reserve.
Alligators are present, please be vigilant.
Improvements planned for Santa Fe Lake Park include the addition of restrooms.
- Cynthia Moore Chestnut Park and Clark Butler Nature Preserve
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Football /Soccer
- Picnic w/o Shelter
- Picnic with Shelter
- Play Equipment
- Rest Room
In 1998, State Representative Cynthia Moore Chestnut sponsored a grant for a park to serve the residents of SE Alachua County. Local businessman, Clark Butler, was called upon and he also donated funds. The park was opened to the public on April 27, 2010.
The multi-purpose field can host soccer, softball or football games and there are basketball courts also available.
To schedule time on the multi-purpose field, please call Basil Benjamin, Leg-A-Z Sports Academy at 407-435-7504.
You can now choose from 3 pavillions and pay $40.00 to reserve one. Please go to: alachua.recdesk.com You will have to create an account and then go to facilities to choose the pavilion you wish to reserve. Please do not reserve more than 2 pavilions for the same day.
Improvements planned for this park include replacing the turf in the play area with soft surface material, adding a pavilion to serve the multi-purpose field.
- Squirrel Ridge Park
 Crime Victim Memorial Garden - Football /Soccer
- Nature/ Wildlife
 Pets Off Leash - Play Equipment
Squirrel Ridge is an active dog park with separate fenced areas for small and large dogs with water is available for the dogs. A new play area and adult fitness will be installed soon.
Currently, Squirrel Ridge is the only county park that allows Rugby to be played. Games are played in the retention field.
- Watermelon Pond
- Boat Ramp
- Fishing
- Picnic w/o Shelter
Watermelon Pond Park provides access to the pond via boat launch. Visitors can also access Watermelon Pond Preserve and Florida Fish and Wildlife's Watermelon Pond area through the park.
Hunting is allowed in the Preserve and state wildlife area.
Trails are accessible during low water levels.
Alligators are common in Watermelon Pond.
- Monteocha Park
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Picnic w/o Shelter
- Picnic with Shelter
- Play Equipment
- Rest Room
- Volleyball
Monteocha Park is a community park that serves the Gordon neighborhood. The basketball court has recently been resurfaced, and planned improvements include adding a pavilion, improving the play area and replacing the mulch with soft surface material.
- Rotary Park at Jonesville
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Concession
 Fitness Trails - Football /Soccer
- Hiking /Nature Trail
- Picnic w/o Shelter
- Picnic with Shelter
- Play Equipment
- Rest Room
- Tennis
Rotary Park at Jonesville is the area's premier sports and family park, offering numerous opportunities for organized sports activities, as well as picnic and play facilities. A mile-long fitness trail is also available for visitor's use. A pickle ball court is incorporated into the basketball court.
For information about organized sports, or to inquire about using the Rotary Park sports facilities, please contact our partners:
- Owens-Illinois Park
- Boat Ramp
- Fishing
- Nature/ Wildlife
- Picnic w/o Shelter
- Picnic with Shelter
- Play Equipment
- Rest Room
Boat launch with dock. Boat trailer parking available.
Updates planned for this park include adding observation areas for wildlife viewing on Newnan's Lake.
Large alligators are abundant.
- Veterans Memorial Park
- Baseball
- Basketball
 Conference Center - Fitness Trails
- Football /Soccer
- Hiking /Nature Trail
- Nature/ Wildlife
- Picnic w/o Shelter
- Picnic with Shelter
- Play Equipment
- Rest Room
- Veteran's Memorial
- Volleyball
Veteran's Memorial Park offers activities for everyone. Sports facilities include a baskeball court, softball fields, soccer fields, and roller hockey facilities. There are also 2 play areas, a fitness trail, and nature trails to explore. Be sure to visit the veteran's memorial and police memorial while at the park.
For information on organized sports and use of fields, contact our partners:
Two large pavilions(10-12 picnic tables) and one extra-large pavilion (16-20 picnic tables) are available for use. A reservation is required but you are welcome to use any unoccupied pavilion without a reservation sign posted.
The medium pavilions can be reserved for $40.00 each and the extra large pavilion for $100.00. To Make a reservation please create and account and then go to facilities to choose the pavilion you wish to reserve. Please go to alachua.recdesk.com
The Freedom Community Center is available for rental, and can be configured with round and/or rectangular tables. It has capacity for 120 guests seated conference style. The rental includes small kitchen facilities (refrigerator and sink).
The Freedom Community Center has all Saturdays and Sundays booked for the rest of 2021. We still have some weekdays available. Contact us at 352-264-6868 to check availability for your date, confirm rates, and to request a facilities use agreement.
- Lake Alto
- Boat Ramp
- Fishing
- Nature/ Wildlife
- Picnic w/o Shelter
- Picnic with Shelter
- Play Equipment
Lake Alto Park currently offers a boat launch, play area and picnic area and connects to hiking trails in Lake Alto Preserve. A new floating dock was recently installed
Planned upgrades include adding shoreline preservation observation areas for wildlife viewing. Installation of restrooms, updates to the gazebo, and ADA compliant connectivity to all amenities are also scheduled.
Alligators may be present.
No restrooms available
- Lochloosa Park
- Boat Ramp
- Fishing
- Nature/ Wildlife
- Picnic w/o Shelter
- Picnic with Shelter
- Play Equipment
- Rest Room
Lochloosa Park has nearly 450 feet of undeveloped shoreline, with a boardwalk and gazebo for wildlife viewing.
Large alligators are abundant.
- Melrose Boat Ramp
- Boat Ramp
Boat launch has limited parking.
Alligators may be present in this area.
No restrooms.
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