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
View Seasonal Hunting Information
Managing Agency
FL Dept. of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Florida Forest Service
Operational Hours: Daily, sunrise to sunset
Size: 21,564 acres
