Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park |
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IUCN Category V (Protected Landscape/Seascape)
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 Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park
Location in Florida
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| Location | Lake and Seminole counties, Florida, United States |
| Nearest city | Sanford, Florida |
| Area | 18,000 acres (7,300 ha) |
| Governing body | Florida Department of Environmental Protection |
The Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park is a huge Florida State Park covering about 18,000-acre (7,300 ha) of land. It stretches along six miles (10 km) of the St. Johns River in Lake and Seminole counties. This park is super important because it acts like a special pathway, or wildlife corridor, for animals. It connects the Wekiva River and St. Johns River areas all the way to the Ocala National Forest.
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Amazing Animals of the Park
This park is home to many cool animals! You might spot large black bears roaming around. There are also playful river otters swimming in the water. Keep an eye out for huge alligators basking in the sun. You can also see beautiful birds like tall wood storks and graceful sandhill cranes. The park's protected lands help these animals live safely.
Exploring the Park's Sections
The Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park is split into two main areas: a northern section and a southern section. Each part offers different ways to explore.
Northern Park Entrance
The entrance to the northern part of the park is found in Pine Lakes. You can get there easily from S.R. 44. This area is perfect for outdoor adventures. Here, you'll find many trails that can be used for different activities. You can also find special areas for camping with horses or for backpack camping.
Southern Park Entrance
The southern part of the park has its own entrance off S.R. 46. This entrance is about nine miles (14 km) west of Sanford. This section gives you access to a huge part of the park, about 5,000 acres (2,000 ha). However, if you love horseback riding, you should know that horses are not allowed in this southern area.
Water Access and Canoeing
It's important to know that neither section of the park has a direct place to launch boats or canoes. But don't worry! If you want to go canoeing on the Wekiva River, you can still travel through the park's waters. You just need to launch your canoe from a spot outside the park's boundaries.
Fun Things to Do at the Park
There are lots of exciting activities you can enjoy at Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park.
Outdoor Adventures
You can go biking on the park's trails, which is a great way to see the scenery. If you enjoy walking, there are many miles of hiking trails to explore. For those who love horses, you can even go equestrian camping, which means camping with your horse! The park has special horse stalls and corrals for them. There are 18 miles (29 km) of multiuse trails for you to enjoy.
Wildlife Watching
One of the most popular activities is wildlife viewing. Because the park is a wildlife corridor, it's a fantastic place to spot animals in their natural home. Remember to be quiet and patient, and you might see some amazing creatures!
Park Hours
Like all Florida state parks, the Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park is open every day of the year. This includes holidays! You can visit between 8 a.m. and sundown.
Gallery
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Park sign on SR 46
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Path into the park, off SR 46
