Manager's Message
Thanks for visiting our website, Paynes Prairie Preserve encompasses over 21,000 acres of recreational opportunities; everything from (staffed) air conditioned Visitor Center with displays and excellent video of the beauty of the preserve, to cycling, walking, equestrian trails, camping, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and boat ramp access to Lake Wauberg. We have recently incorporated cell phone tour stops around the preserve to enhance our visitor’s experience.
In addition to the many recreational opportunities at the preserve, the proximity to restaurants, antique shops, museums, and the University of Florida will provide plenty to do when you are not camping, or enjoying outdoor activities at the preserve.
For more information, please visit Friends of Paynes Prairie
or call the Ranger Station at 352-466-3397.
- David Jowers, Park Manager
Welcome to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park
Paynes Prairie is biologically, geologically, and historically unique. This park became Florida´s first state preserve in 1971 and is now designated as a National Natural Landmark. Noted artist and naturalist William Bartram called it the great Alachua Savannah when he wrote about his visit to the prairie in 1774.
Over 20 distinct biological communities provide a rich array of habitats for wildlife, including alligators, bison, wild horses, and over 270 species of birds. Exhibits and an audio-visual program at the visitor center explain the area´s natural and cultural history. A 50-foot-high observation tower near the visitor center provides a panoramic view of the preserve.
Eight trails provide opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and bicycling. Ranger-led activities are offered on weekends, November through April. Fishing on Lake Wauberg is allowed and a boat ramp provides access for canoes and boats with electric motors. Gasoline powered boats are not allowed. Full-facility campsites are available for overnight visitors. Located on U.S. 441, 10 miles south of Gainesville.
Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, please call 352-466-3397.
Get more information on making a reservation.
Hours of Operation
Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.
Driving Directions
Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is located 10 miles south of Gainesville, in Micanopy, on the east side of US 441.
Coming from the north on I-75: Take exit 374, the Micanopy exit, and turn left at the end of the exit ramp. You will then be traveling east on CR 234. Stay on this road 1.4 miles until it intersects with US 441. Turn left onto 441 and go 0.6 miles to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park (on the right).
Coming from the south on I-75: Take exit 374, the Micanopy exit, and turn right at the end of the exit ramp. You will then be traveling east on CR 234. Stay on this road 1.4 miles until it intersects with US 441. Turn left onto 441 and go about 0.6 miles to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park (on the right).
Park Fees
Admission Fee:
$6.00 per vehicle. Limit 2-8 people per vehicle.
$4.00 Single Occupant Vehicle.
$2.00 Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.
$7.00 per equestrian/rider.
Picnic Pavilion
$30 plus tax – Picnic pavilion seats 65 people.
Camping Fee:
$18.00 per night, plus tax – campground. Includes water and electricity.
Group Camping:
$4.00 per person, plus tax (minimum of $20.00 per night).
Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park
100 Savannah Blvd.
Micanopy, Florida 32667
Phone: 352-466-3397
Fax: Contact Park for Number
Citizen Support Organization
Friends
of Paynes Prairie, Inc.
100 Savannah Boulevard
Micanopy, 32667
