Additional Information for Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park

Area Geography

Lower Wekiva River State Preserve is comprised of almost 18,000 acres of environmentally significant land bordering six miles of the St. Johns River and the lower four miles of the Wekiva River and Black Water Creek. Almost 5,000 acres of the preserve was purchased by the state of Florida in 1976 to protect portions of the Lower Wekiva River while allowing recreational use. Additional purchases in 1994 and 1995 have formed a wildlife corridor along the Wekiva and St. Johns Rivers connecting to the Ocala National Forest.

There are two entrances into the Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park. The northern entrance is located off of S.R. 44 in Pine Lakes. Horseback riding trails, primitive horse camping and backpack camping are located here. There is no river access from this location.

The southern entrance (off of S.R. 46) contains about 5,000 acres and offers a nature trail. There is no water access from this location. Horseback riding is not allowed in this portion of the Preserve.

Pets

Pets are welcome in the park and on hiking trails but must stay on a hand-held 6-foot leash at all times. Pet owners must pick up after their pets and properly dispose of all pet droppings in trash receptacles. Florida law requires that pets be vaccinated against rabies.

Please see our General Parks Pet Policy for more information.