Natural Features | Cultural Heritage | Preserve Management | Recreation

Ranger-guided Activities

Take a walk on the "wild side" and accompany a park ranger on a guided activity and gain a better understanding and appreciation of the magnificent beauty and splendor of Paynes Prairie "...the Real Florida." Reservations required: Call the visitor center (352) 466-4100 between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily for further information.

November Through April Activities

Overnight Backpacking Trip: The overnight backpacking trip is a moderately strenuous hike of approximately 6.5 miles over level to slightly rolling terrain. The hike begins mid-morning Saturday with a 4.5-mile hike to a primitive campsite on Persimmon Point. Sunday's hike skirts along a 2-mile section of the picturesque north rim of the prairie basin. The trip concludes around noon at the starting point.
Fee: $10.00 per person
make check payable to Friends of Paynes Prairie
Map to starting point
Dates: First Saturday of the Month 10:00 am

Ranger's Choice Programs: The themes for these Saturday morning hikes, walks, or rides will vary. Topics will include the history of Paynes Prairie, identifying trees, flowers, and plants, birding by sound, canoe/kayak tours of Lake Wauberg, a ride through history on the Gainesville Hawthorne trail, and more! Call the Paynes Prairie Visitor Center for details, 352.466.4100.
Fee: Depends on program
Date: Second and Fourth Saturdays of the Month, start time may vary

Prairie Rim Ramble: Follow in the footsteps of noted naturalist and artist William Bartram on this guided hike of the north rim of Paynes Prairie. The heavily shaded trail rambles around an array of fragile sinkholes with interesting plant diversity. Along the way enjoy wildlife viewing, bird & butterfly watching, sweeping views of the freshwater marsh, and learning about Paynes Prairie's history ­ the prairie has been a center for human activity for over 12,000 years! Moderate 3.5 mile hike, 3 to 4 hours
Fee: $2 entrance fee
Map to starting point
Dates: Third Saturday of the Month 8:00 am

Gentle Walk and Talk: This gentle walk takes you to the edge of the prairie basin and Alachua Sink, plus areas of the Preserve only accessible with a guide. Challenge yourself to identify birds, butterflies, trees, and wildflowers along the way, or just enjoy a peaceful stroll. This walk is suitable for those who aren't hikers but still want to have an outdoor Paynes Prairie experience. The pace is slow and comfortable and your guide will stop and talk about what is encountered.
Fee: $2 entrance fee
Map to starting point
Dates: Alternating Thursday mornings 9:00 am (12/31, 1/14, 1/28, 2/11, 2/25, 3/11, 3/25, 4/8, 4/22).