The local people know it's here, but they do not appreciate either the importance of Paynes Prairie to the history and nature of Florida, nor the overwhelming natural beauty to be found on this huge Preserve. Many ecosystems, hundreds of species of birds and animals, and unusual geology all are part of the importance of Paynes Prairie. And No, the Sink did not plug up in the 1880 and create a lake - the water lever in the Prairie goes up and down with the El Nino cycle, becoming a lake every decade or so. Fascinating place!
Went to Paynes Prairie with my friend and his Dad, saw a few alligators and birds. Tried to walk out to the observation tower, but trail was flooded. Didn't see any horses or bison. I was a little scared about the alligators, because the flooded areas were right along the trail, but none came close. They said you see more alligators in winter when they are sunning themselves.
When traveling northbound on I-75 to Gainesville, slow down at the halfway point to enjoy the viewing area. You will see birds, gators and perhaps deer or Florida bison.
This park is one of the best State Parks that I have visted. The La Chua Trail is the best place to observe (keep your distance) wild bison, horses, boar, alligators, armadillo, and a world of bird species. It is hot in the summer (little shade), so come early if you visit during our hot months.
This place is awesome if you want to see wild horses, bison, alligators, snakes, and lot of birds. I've traveled a lot of places in florida, and this is the best place to get wildlife photos I have found. The trail gets you down and close to the gators. Always watch where you step: I have found snakes hiding in the short grass on the trail.
This is a great place for exploring wild Florida. Although we did not see the bison we were lucky enough to see gators, brown water snakes, water moccasin, armadillo's, bald eagle nesting! The highlight was the stroll on the boardwalk with the armadillo - so cute!
Go to the North entrance and park ($4/carload). This is a very special place. The wooden walkway through the prairie lets you see the wildlife without disturbing them and the educational placards along the way explain the ecology/biology of the area. The 1 mile nature trail let's you get up close & personal with all sorts of wildlife. Most people go to see the alligators (I have lived in Florida a long time and have never seen as many large gators in one place). If you are stupid enough, you can walk right up to them. But I have never seen an aggressive alligator when the two-legged animals respect their space. I personally find the birds and waterfowl plentiful and fascinating. We've seen bald eagles, bison & wild horses, but no wild boar...yet. This is a genuine natural treasure, but you need to take the time to enjoy it. Wear shoes that can get a little muddy and walk out to the observation platform (it is NOT a tower). The view is worth it. If you go on a quiet day when it's not crowded, it is one of the most serene places in Florida.
Spent a few hours here with friends. Excellent opportunity to see wildlife (lots of birds as well as plenty of gators). La Chua hiking trail is very easy to navigate and the raised boardwalk gives a great view of the swamp and marsh. WELL WORTH A VISIT.
We walked the La Chua Trail, 3 miles of North Florida nature at its finest. We saw alligators sunning themselves, wildflowers, horses, bison, waterbirds, egrets, herons and more. It was a perfect way to spend a winter's day in the Sunshine State.
One of the best nature hot spots in Gainesville. The Lachua Trail is easy to find a and 1.1 mile walk where you will pass many gators and cranes on your way to the tower. There you can attempt to spot the wild horses and buffalo. Great for familes and friends.