Frequently Asked Questions about Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

Question: Can I bring my dog to the park?
Answer: Dogs are allowed in all areas of the park, but for safety reasons they are not allowed in the canoes. Where pets are allowed, they must be kept on a six-foot, hand-held leash and be well-behaved at all times.

Question: Can I fish in the park?
Answer: Fishing is allowed in the park along the sea wall of the Intracoastal Waterway. Fishing is currently not allowed in the new wetlands project. Fishing along the sea wall has improved greatly because of the wetlands project. Jack, tarpon and snapper have been caught there. Fishing is best right after high tide, as the water is coming out of the wetlands carrying small bait fish into the waters of the Intracoastal Waterway.

Question: Is there a boat ramp in the park?
Answer: No, the nearest boat ramp is at George English Park. It is about a mile west of the park, three blocks west of the Intracoastal Bridge.

Question: How do I get to the park?
Answer: You can travel either Interstate 95 or the Florida Turnpike. Take the Sunrise Boulevard exit heading east. Continue traveling east until you go over a large drawbridge. Turn left at the first traffic light and that will bring you right into the park.

Question: What type of wildlife will I see in the park?
Answer: We have raccoons, squirrels, opossums, gray foxes, turtles and an ever-changing bird population (great egret, great and little blue herons and roseate spoonbills), just to name a few.

Question: Are there any snakes or spiders in the park?
Answer: The most common spiders found in the park are the crab spider and the golden orb weaver. Neither will harm you. We see rat snakes and black racers from time-to-time. These species are not poisonous.

Question: What is that skunk smell?
Answer: The smell is actually a tree called the white stopper. Just ask, and we’ll be happy to show you.

Question: Do you have any big special events happening at your park?
Answer: In December, we have the annual Winterfest Boat Parade along the Intracoastal Waterway. The event draws thousands of visitors to our area.