4 /5 Gator Tom: In Florida it is rare for a park to exceed the mundane. Right out of the 2nd parking lot is a view of the river on a canoe launch dock.
Going to the furthestmost primitive campaign was pretty smooth and well marked. Floridas deadliest snake, coral, in the first mile! Bring a blanket for lunch at the campsite where there is a cleared area but zero amenities.
Headed west from the campsite is only for the experienced hiker. Hurricane Milton left numerous huge trees down over the trail and havent been cleared. Got lost three times trying to get to the primitive campsite near the observation tower.
In December 2024 the multiple trails in the middle of the park are completely underwater from record setting rains this year. You cannot make it to the boardwalk from the west or southern trails without wading in 1-2 foot water (we didnt even try). It would be helpful if someone put a sign somewhere near the parking lot that indicate this. Also note there are no park maps from the parking lot we left from, so try to find one in a guidebook, online or use the free Strava app (which is what saved us when we missed several turns at double marks on trees).
There is a playground near one parking lot. Big pavilion for picnics too. Bathrooms only near the one parking lot, but the trail from the first parking lot goes near it.
We hiked for six hours, covering about 8.5 miles. Lots of trees to protect you from the sun. Numerous ecosystems.
The amount of animals you see during your day are impressive. Coral snake, wild boar (pack of 3), vultures, hawks, frogs, armadillos (2), fish & alligators. Signs along the nature trail are difficult to read and need updating. There are several buildings you come across during your hike. No mosquitos or ticks in December.
Lack of cleaning downed trees and poorly maintained signage takes this from 5 to 4 stars.
