Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park

Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park is a protected natural area spanning about 18,000 acres along the Wekiva River in Lake County. The preserve includes several miles of river and blackwater creek systems that form a wildlife corridor connecting to the Ocala National Forest.

Native American groups depended on this area for thousands of years, taking advantage of abundant fish and game in the river and wetlands. The waterways and forests remain largely as they existed in those earlier times.

The park maintains extensive equestrian facilities with horse stalls, corrals, and 18 miles of dedicated trails for riders to explore natural Florida landscapes.

The preserve can be reached through several entry points, with options for different types of activities like kayaking and hiking. Visitors should be prepared for the area's natural conditions and bring appropriate gear depending on which activities they plan to pursue.

Black bears, river otters, wood storks, and sandhill cranes live here in natural conditions across different landscape types. The mix of floodplain forests and upland woodlands creates a range of habitats that supports this diversity of wildlife.

Location: Florida

Website: https://floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/lower-wekiva-river-preserve-state-park

GPS coordinates: 28.86690,-81.36810

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:25