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.
Devils Millhopper Geological Park is located just a few miles from the center of Gainesville. There, you can hike down the steps into the center of an ancient sinkhole.
Dudley Farms
Dudley Farms
Dudley Farms
Dudley Farms Historical State Park is an accurate representaton at life in a 19th century “Florida Cracker” town. Comprised of over 18 restored structures, manned by staff in period dress, it’s a look back in time. There, just ten miles west of Gainesville, you’ll see what life was like “before Mickey Mouse”
Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State ParkMarjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State ParkMarjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park in eastern Alachua County, is the conserved home of the author of Cross Creek, Gal Young ‘Un and TheYearling. There, trained docents and park personnel will demonstrate life in rural Florida during the early days of the 20th century.San Felasco Hammock , off US441 near the town of Alachua, is an excellent place to ride bikes, horses, or to hike the wilderness. Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park
Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park
Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park
Paynes Prairie Preserve State ParkPaynes Prairie Preserve Park , just south of Gainesville near Micanopy, is one of Florida’s largest State Parks. The park straddles Paynes Prairie, once (and sometimes still is) a shallow lake. The park headquarters, campsites and interpretative center are accessed from US441 on the south side of the Prairie. On the northside, access is from NE 15th Street in Gainesville. There the LaChua Trail heads into the park and the paved Gainesville to Hawthorne Trail heads east.
Experience wild horses, bison and other “critters” on your walk along the LaChua Trail, through the northern end of Paynes Prairie State Park.Remember, NO Bikes, NO Pets, And don’t bother the gators!
Florida State Parks will follow local orders requiring facial coverings or masks to provide for staff and visitor safety These requirements vary from area to area. Our main priority is the safety of our guests and staff. We will continue to review operations on a daily basis and make additional operational changes as may be deemed necessary for protection of public health. Please review individual park pages for specific information for each location.
