Paynes Prairie
No Sand, No Surf, No Problem!
You hear the word “Florida,” and you think beach, right? Well, not anymore! Let me tell you about the natural areas in Alachua County. You won’t find sand or surf, but you won’t miss those beaches.
Visit Alachua County’s State Parks, Trails, and Historic Sites
In addition to being North Central Florida’s most populated (but not overpopulated!) county, Alachua County is known for its museums, fine dining, upscale lodging–and the University of Florida. But equally important and impressive are its natural assets, especially the State Parks, preserves and historic sites. The State Parks in Alachua County range from small to …
Birding and Bird Photography Opportunities in Natural North Florida
Blogger Note: Despite over fifty years as a photographer, my expertise in the art of bird photography is lacking. I thank my friend Rick Davidson, for this story and some excellent photos. I wish I had his patience! Our area is fortunate to have so many parks and wildlife management areas, but we’re also fortunate …
Take A Walk On The “Wild Side”– In Gainesville’s City Limits–At Sweetwater Wetlands Park
Gainesville’s Sweetwater Wetlands Park is about more than 125 acres of protected land near the intersection of South Main Street and Williston Road. The park is not only a place to connect with nature, it’s a way to protect our environment. Featuring wetlands and ponds, the park was created to improve the water quality of …
Visit Gainesville’s Sweetwater Wetlands Park For a Close-up Look at Natural North Florida
It’s June, and it’s the perfect time to visit and hike (no bikes or horses allowed!) Gainesville’s newest park, Sweetwater Wetlands Park. Here’s a blurb from the park’s website that does a pretty good job of describing the awesome place: “Sweetwater Wetlands Park is not only a place to connect with nature, it’s a way …
Visit The La Chua Trail and Alachua Sink at Payne’s Prairie State Park
Paynes Prairie is biologically, geologically and historically unique. This 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. Depending on the season you visit …
Hike, Bike and Camp at Paynes Prairie State Park’s South Side, in Alachua County, Florida
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. The State Park …
Gainesville’s gigantic gators at Paynes Prairie
Looking for enormous alligators? You’ll find them in the home of the Gators, Gainesville, along the La Chua Trail at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park.