Wekiwa Springs State Park

This site is famous for its spring run, but there are also some excellent habitats for birding and butterfly watching (freshwater swamp, sandhills, flatwoods, scrub, hammocks, lakes and ponds). 192 species of birds have been recorded at the park. The trail from the main spring to Sand Lake runs through six different plant communities, and during spring and fall migration, the park hosts up to 30 warbler species. The Sand Lake area may have Wood Ducks and Tricolored Herons. Watch for Red-headed, Pileated, Red-bellied, Hairy and Downy Woodpeckers; Bachman’s Sparrows are frequently heard calling in the sandhills. Swallow-tailed Kites, Northern Bobwhites, Wood Storks, Bald Eagles and Yellow-throated Vireos nest within the park. Butterfly viewers may find Southern Dogface, Variegated Fritillary, Southern Pearly-Eye, Confused Cloudywing and Palmetto Skipper. Visitors can choose from 15 miles of hiking trails, 9 miles of bicycle trails and 8 miles of horse trails. Portions of trails may be flooded after rains. Canoe and kayak rentals are available; 15 miles of river create wonderful opportunities for close encounters with Limpkins and Prothonotary Warblers.