Not just found out west, herds of wild horses and bison roam the prairie in this surprisingly diverse preserve south of Gainesville.

Paynes Prairie is unique in many ways. Nowhere else in Florida can visitors experience wild-roaming bison and horses. Nearly 300 species of birds also frequent the park along with alligators, deer and many other animals.

The park’s eight trails, including the 16-mile paved Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail, allows one to explore the park’s interior and observe wildlife, while a 50-foot high observation tower provides for panoramic views.

Fishing and canoeing on Lake Wauberg is popular along with a shaded campground. During a visit to Paynes Prairie, one can easily understand why Seminole Indians once occupied a village along this vast savannah.

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

Price’s Scrub is nearly 1,000 acres and a key part of the proposed Northwest Marion Greenway.

Price’s Scrub State Park was purchased to preserve a biodiversity hotspot as well as for the planned connection of regionally important conservation lands. Price’s Scrub is nearly 1,000 acres and a key part of the proposed Northwest Marion Greenway. This park provides locals and visitors with a soothing green respite from everyday life.

A 9.5-mile trail system provides equestrians, hikers and cyclists with access to diverse natural communities, creating an opportunity for exploration. Trails in the south are sandy and open, while trails in the north are more shade covered with rolling topography.

Day use facilities include a spacious grassy parking lot, picnic tables, portable toilet and watering trough.

State Parks Tagged With: Micanopy