Mother Nature's Playground

We have made minimal changes to the land, only for the safety of visitors and the health of the environment. This is a natural area like state parks and other protected areas. Although most species actively avoid humans, you may encounter gopher tortoise, squirrels, rabbits, armadillos, hawks, deer, colorful birds and butterflies, insect life, and snakes or frogs.  The entire property is fenced, making encountering many of these species unlikely. However, if you do encounter wildlife, remember, it will most likely be scared of you, and certainly will be scared of your dog. Do not allow your dog to chase or pursue wildlife.

There are also many beautiful native plants including long-leaf pine, laurel oak, and beauty berries (French mulberry). Please do not pick or transport any plant life off of the property. 

SPECIAL INFORMATION ABOUT GOPHER TORTOISE

We are happy to be the home to about 10 gopher tortoise, mostly living on the back part of the property. If you happen to have the good fortune to see one of them, remember, they are a protected species in Florida. Do not touch, pick up, feed, or otherwise impede its travel. Under no circumstances may a tortoise be removed from the property (there are heavy fines for this activity). DO NOT ALLOW YOUR DOG TO HARASS THE TORTOISE. The burrows are each staked so that you will know where they are located. Do not drop anything into, or attempt to cover the burrow. Do not allow your dog to dig or otherwise enter the burrow. Admire them from afar!

Last, keep our forest clean. Do not leave trash and clean up after your dog. Waste disposal areas and materials are located at the entrance. Your dog is welcomed to dig but please fill in any holes before you go. Please do not allow dogs to dig along the fence line.