You never know what natural treasures you might glimpse on a visit to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, less than 10 miles south of Gainesville. One of Florida's most ecologically diverse spots, the park's namesake savanna has been designated as a National Natural Landmark and is a haven for wildlife, including alligators, wild horses, bison -- yes, bison -- and more than 270 bird species. No matter which mode of transportation you choose -- hiking, biking or horseback -- numerous trails take you deep into the prairie, through pristine woodlands and along scenic marshes and freshwater lakes.
Must see and must do at Paynes Prairie Preserve
Start your visit at the park's engaging visitor center, where numerous exhibits and a short film showcase the history and natural beauty of the park, then make the short walk to the nearby 50-foot-tall observation tower, which provides a panoramic prairie view. It's hard to know which trail to choose at Paynes Prairie, but if you're there for only a few hours, try the LaChua Trail, a three-mile round trip that winds along scenic wetlands, Alachua Sink, Alachua Lake and Boulware Springs and might provide a glimpse of gators, otters and sandhill or whooping cranes. To truly experience all the park has to offer, spend a night or two at the park's campground near Lake Wauburg. Bring your own canoe or kayak, or drop a fishing line in search of bass, bream or speckled perch.
Best and worst time to go to Paynes Prairie Preserve
Park hours are from 8 a.m. to sundown daily. The best times to hit the trails are early morning and late afternoon to early evening, when you are likely to see a few more animals. From late spring to early fall, avoid the middle of the day, when Florida's notorious humidity and afternoon storms are prevelant and many animals find a spot to cool off.
Admission to Paynes Prairie Preserve
Park admission ranges from $4 to $6 per vehicle, with pedestrians and bicyclists admitted for about half that. Ample free parking is available near the visitor center. Campsite fees are $18 to $20 per night and include water and electricity.
Wildlife at Paynes Prairie Preserve
More than 400 animal species have been identified at Paynes Prairie. On one recent hike, several white-tailed deer, a group of wild horses, a bald eagle and a bobcat were seen along the eight-mile Cone's Dike Trail, an earthen dike that takes hikers into the midst of the prairie. The bison are harder to spy, but can sometimes be glimpsed from the observation tower or trails.
Insider tip for Paynes Prairie Preserve
Make time for a short side trip to the charming town of Micanopy, about 1.5 miles from the state-park entrance. Founded in 1821 and thought to be Florida's oldest inland town, the 1-square-mile community is home to a cluster of antique shops, a hauntingly beautiful cemetery with tombstones dating to 1826 and the Micanopy Historical Society Museum, set in a 19th-century warehouse. Stay overnight at the elegant Herlong Mansion, a circa-1845 bed and breakfast, or plan a visit during the town's annual Fall Festival, typically held on a weekend in late October or early November and featuring 200 arts and craft vendors, food and live music.
Author's bio: Kevin Adams is a freelance writer who has lived in Orlando for more than a decade and has had travel articles appear on USAToday.com and in Golfweek magazine.