Lake Wales Ridge State Forest, State forest in Polk County, Florida.

Lake Wales Ridge State Forest spans thousands of acres across two main sections in central Florida, featuring sand ridges, wetland areas, and pine-covered flatlands at different elevations. The terrain changes as you move through the forest, creating diverse ecosystems within the same protected area.

This forest sits atop ancient sand ridges formed millions of years ago, making them among the oldest elevated landforms in the region. That ancient geology continues to shape how the landscape looks and what grows there today.

This forest protects plants and animals found nowhere else on Earth, making it a refuge for species that depend entirely on this landscape. Walking through it, you experience why locals and scientists consider it irreplaceable.

The forest has multiple trails for different skill levels, with good opportunities for bird watching and nature photography year-round. Bring sturdy shoes and plenty of water, as trail conditions can vary depending on recent weather and the season.

The Walk in Water Tract holds the largest contiguous area of ridge sandhill in public ownership, while the Arbuckle Tract preserves an ancient scrub ecosystem. Both tracts shelter plants endemic to the Florida scrub, and each is open to the public with hiking trails.