Hike, Bike and Camp at Paynes Prairie State Park’s South Side, in Alachua County, Florida

Posted on by Tommy Thompson
The view of Paynes Prairie from the observation tower, looking north.
The view of Paynes Prairie from the observation tower, looking north.

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is biologically, geologically and historically unique. The park became Florida´s first state preserve in 1971 and is now designated as a National Natural Landmark. Noted artist and naturalist William Bartram called it the great Alachua Savannah when he wrote about his visit to the prairie in 1774.

prairie_sp-5

The State Park has two main entrances.  On the south side of the immense prairie, the main Ranger Station and Visitors’ Center are located about 10 miles south of Gainesville, near Micanopy, just off US441.  The north side entrance to the prairie and La Chua Trail is located just south of Boulware Springs, off SE 15th Street, in east Gainesville.

More than 20 distinct biological communities provide a rich array of habitats for wildlife and livestock, including alligators, bison, horses and more than 270 species of birds. Exhibits and an audio-visual program at the visitor center explain the area´s natural and cultural history. A 50-foot-high observation tower near the visitor center provides a panoramic view of the preserve.

The Paynes Prairie State Park Visitors' Center
The Paynes Prairie State Park Visitors’ Center
Interpretive displays in the Visitors' Center
Interpretive displays in the Visitors’ Center
One of the many bird speccies you're likely to see here--the sandhill crane.
One of the many bird speccies you’re likely to see here–the sandhill crane.

prairie_sp-6

Climb the 50-foot observation tower near the Visitors' Center for a great view of the prairie.
Climb the 50-foot observation tower near the Visitors’ Center for a great view of the prairie.
Lush hardwood hammocks and cypress swamps are found throughout the park.
Lush hardwood hammocks and cypress swamps are found throughout the park.

prairie_sp-11

Expect to see pine forest reclamation in several areas of the park.
Expect to see pine forest reclamation in several areas of the park.
Wildlife abounds, especially at the shore of Lake Wauburg
Wildlife abounds, especially at the shore of Lake Wauburg
Electric and paddle-powered boats are allowed to launch at the park's boat ramp.
Electric and paddle-powered boats are allowed to launch at the park’s boat ramp.
Full-facility and primitive tent camping sites are available at the park's southern region.
Full-facility and primitive tent camping sites are available in the park’s southern region.

 

 

Leave a Reply