When many people think of Florida, three things likely come to mind: retirees, alligators, and theme parks. But Florida is a wealth of natural wonders beyond geriatrics and gators. Whether a visitor or a resident, exploring some of Florida’s unique state parks can be a thrill ride that Mickey never dreamed of.
A brief history
Paynes Prairie was designated in 1971, becoming the first state preserve. The park is open from 8:00 am to sundown 365 days a year. Entrance fees range from $2.00 for pedestrians and cyclists to $6.00 per car, so this is also an economical choice of day trip for families and explorer groups. Eight trails meander through miles of untouched wilderness, and a 50 foot observation tower near the visitor’s center gives you an amazing panoramic view of it all. There is a bike trail, a boat ramp for non-gas powered boats to access Lake Wauberg, and campground facilities. Fishing, hiking, biking, and photographic opportunities galore await you at Payne’s Prairie.
Main attraction
Located just south of Gainesville with convenient access from I-75, you will find Paynes Prairie Nature Preserve, a vast expanse of rolling plains and glistening waters. You can stroll along raised boardwalks or hike grassy trails and encounter many local animals like turtles, bison, snakes, and (of course!) alligators. Tons of alligators. Stroll through Paynes near dusk and you will see dozens of these rugged reptiles cruising through the ponds. This is an open, natural environment where the animals roam free, so be on alert. Gators sometimes lay across the paths and rattlesnakes are occasionally spotted. The preserve is also home to more than 270 species of birds providing a musical accompaniment to your hike.
As an added bonus — especially for the film or music buff in the family — swing through the tiny town of Micanopy as you head back to the highway. This rustic hamlet is mentioned in tunes by rocker Tom Petty (A Mind with a Heart of Its Own) and country crooner John Anderson (Seminole Wind). It was the filming location for the movie Doc Hollywood starring Michael J. Fox, and is the place actor River Phoenix called home.
When to go
Paynes Prairie is just one of many of Florida’s natural landscapes and is a must-see when visiting the Sunshine State! We recommend checking out Paynes Prairie around the fall season. With temperatures ranging from 77 to 85, the weather is perfect and the wildlife should be robust.
Featured Image from Danaisa Rodriguez/Unsplash
