Lake George State Forest

This ecologically diverse State Forest features upland flatwoods, hardwoods, floodplain forest and basin swamps, with over 3 miles of St. Johns River frontage. Birders will want to start at the Bluffton Recreation Area (primitive camping is available) at the end of St. Johns River Rd. On the drive in, you may spot Bald Eagle, Northern Bobwhite; songbird migrants in the thick hardwood hammock; and Swallow-tailed Kite, Limpkin and other wading birds at the river. At the recreation area, walk the short interpretive nature trail to search for songbirds. Canoes may be launched from the bank of the river for a water-based adventure. If the birds are cooperative, it’s worth hiking the property more extensively to see what kind of migrants are around. Hikers, bicyclists and equestrians may traverse the forest roads, designated trails and permanent fire lines; miles of forest roads can also be birded by vehicle. Look for flocks Tree Swallow in winter; King Rail (common) and Eastern Screech-Owl (uncommon) are present year-round.

Site Information

This Site is Free to Enter

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Managing Agency
FL Dept. of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Florida Forest Service

Operational Hours: Daily, sunrise to sunset

Size: 21,564 acres

Lake George State Forest

Hours: Sunrise to sunset

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