Paynes Prairie is situated in North Central Florida, just outside of Gainesville, and is well known for its sixteen thousand acres of wet prairie, marshes and open water ways; its spectacular wildlife offering, most notably bison, horses, alligators, sand hill cranes and hundreds of species of birds; and also the family friendly activities it provides such as fishing, camping, picnicking, bird watching and the significant expanse of walking, bicycling and horse riding trails.
Paynes Prairie is a state-supported state park and is also a National Natural Landmark. It was named the first state-supported preserve in 1971 and was initially identified by the legendary naturalist and artist William Bartram in 1774 as part of the Great Alachua Savannah. The prairie area was shaped eras in the past by eroded limestone and the general layout of the topography of the park hasn't changed a whole lot ever since then, with the exception of intervals of high water levels.
Through time, Paynes Prairie became home to many now extinct animals, some of which include mastodons, mammoths and saber tooted cats. Humans initially inhabited the area around 12 thousand years in the past and the people groups that made Paynes Prairie their home were the Paleo and archaic Indians, the Cades People, the Seminole, and ultimately Europeans and Americans. The area also has some bloody history as it was often the location of battles between the indigenous peoples and others through the settlement of Florida.
These days, Paynes Prairie has become one of Florida's most popular outdoor destinations because of the wide array of activities available. Nature photography enthusiasts come from around the world to capture the wild bison and horses that roam the prairie; the migrating sand hill cranes; and the area's pride and joy, the Florida alligator. The park's trail system is made up of over 30 miles of paved paths and appeal to serious cycling enthusiasts; individuals seeking a relaxed day of horseback riding; or simply individuals just looking for an easygoing stroll through some of Florida's most beautiful scenery.
For folks searching for a low priced, but fun way to enjoy a day, entrance fees range between just $2 - $6 and for those aiming to stay for a night or two, Paynes Prairie also provides camping for only $18 per night. One particular great option is Lake Wauberg, which offers fishing and boating and often is a preferred location for special large group gatherings. And lastly, if planning your first escape to Paynes Prairie, you might want to get started at the park's visitors' center which supplies all kinds of information about the park, including exhibits, video programs and schedules of themed programs.
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If you are planning a vacation to North Central Florida some time soon, ensure that you include Paynes Prairie on your list of things to do!
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