If you are looking to get your wildlife fix in Florida, you have to add the Weekiwachee Preserve to your list. This massive 11,000-acre wilderness is a mix of swamps, crystal-clear lakes, and diverse birdlife.
We spent a December day exploring the trails, and here is everything you need to know before you head out.
For information & reservation:
https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/recreation/weekiwachee-preserve
The Logistics: Free Exploration
The Weekiwachee Preserve is completely free to enter.
- Vehicle Access: You can actually drive into the preserve every other Saturday, but only as far as the bathroom area. Beyond that, it’s all hiking, biking, and trails.
- No Camping: Unlike the Seranova Tract we visited recently, there is no camping or boondocking allowed here. This is strictly a day-use park for activities like birding, hiking, and biking.
- Pot Holes (Chug Holes): If you are driving in, keep a sharp eye on the road. Some of these potholes are big enough to swallow a small car!
Water Activities: Non-Motorized Only
The lakes here are stunningly clear, making them a favorite spot for Florida kayakers and paddleboarders.
- No Gas Motors: You can bring a boat, but there are no gasoline motors allowed. Electric trolling motors are fine, but most people stick to kayaks and canoes.
- Fishing: There are incredible fishing spots all around the lake. Because of the park’s location, you can find a mix of freshwater and saltwater opportunities depending on which section you are in.
The Hiking Experience: The “Only Mountain in Florida”
We took a hike around the main lake, and it’s a workout!
- The Distance: Don’t let the scenery fool you—the walk around the lake is roughly 5 miles. Danielle found out the hard way that standard workout shoes aren’t the same as hiking shoes. If you’re going to do the full loop, wear supportive footwear and bring plenty of water.
- Wildlife and Tracks: We saw plenty of tracks along the trail—everything from dogs to what might have been bear sign. Keep your eyes peeled for “snake birds” and white herons in the trees.
- The View: There are some elevated areas (what we joke are the “mountains” of Florida) that give you a great vantage point over the lakes. It’s a perfect spot to sit and relax, even if the “shelters” along the way aren’t exactly rain-proof.
Leave No Trace
We were disappointed to see some trash and broken glass left behind at a few spots. This is a free sanctuary for everyone to enjoy—please, leave no trace. If we don’t take care of these 11,000 acres, they won’t stay beautiful for the birds or the hikers.
Watch our full hike and tour here: The Trails Of Weekiwachee Preserve
After a 5-mile hike, we are definitely ready for a solid meal. Danielle might be too tired to cook tonight after those “mile squats,” but her recipes are what keep us going on these adventures. Check out dininginwithdanielle.com for some high-energy meals that are perfect for a day of exploring.
Y’all please take care.