Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park
From the parking lot, hike the trail west through flatwoods, listening for the “squeaky toy” call of Brown-headed Nuthatches, the wavering trills of Pine Warblers and the harsh, squawking sounds of Yellow-breasted Chats (early morning and late evening is best time for chats). For a shorter hike, veer left at the fork. The paved trail leads to a boardwalk through a titi forest (White-eyed Vireos nest), which emerges on the sheltered bayou. Scan the reeds for Clapper Rails and Tricolored Herons. For a longer hike, veer right at the fork, following the trail along the bayou’s far side, past a rare pitcher plant bog, to the end on Perdido Bay. Across the street from the parking lot, upland sandhill habitats host Common Ground-Doves year-round, and Common Nighthawks show off on late spring/summer evenings. Bring water and expect mosquitoes in warmer months.
Site Information
Admission Fee Required for Entry
Managing Agency
FL Dept. of Environmental Protection, Div. of Recreation and Parks
Operational Hours: 8am to sunset
Size: 4,473 acres
