Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park

Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park is a protected nature reserve in Florida that encompasses subtropical swamp forest with numerous water channels and thick vegetation. The landscape spreads across a vast area and offers several ways to explore the dense growth and waterways.

Cypress trees were harvested from this area between 1944 and 1954, resulting in the creation of tram roads used by logging operations. These old routes were later converted and now serve as hiking trails for visitors to use.

The place became known to readers through Susan Orlean's book The Orchid Thief, which captured public interest in the wild orchids growing here. The story was later adapted into a film that brought more visitors seeking to experience this landscape firsthand.

You can explore the preserve by driving a scenic route or taking a short walking trail to experience the landscape up close. Both options let you see the water and vegetation at your own pace.

This place holds the highest concentration of native orchid species found anywhere in North America in such variety. The plants are difficult to spot and many visitors come specifically to see them growing in their natural state.

Location: Florida

Operator: FL Dept. of Environmental Protection, Div. of Recreation and Parks

Address: Coastline Drive

Phone: +2396954593

Website: https://floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/fakahatchee-strand-preserve-state-park

GPS coordinates: 26.00000,-81.41690

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:42