The recent hurricanes caused us to close many park locations due to significant damage. While most locations have opened, some remain closed. Before visiting any park, please use the "Find Park Status" button below to see if the location is on the closed/partially closed list.
Please note: Since the vast majority of the parks are now open, starting on Nov. 28, we will remove the Parks Status page and list any closure information directly on the pages for those locations.
Due to the effects of Hurricane Helene, the Lake Frances Nature Preserve is closed until further notice (Updatd 10/4/24)
The Lake Frances Nature Preserve is home to 1673 acres of mesic pine flatwoods, wet prairie, and cypress swamps. Brooker Creek and Lake Frances are the primary water features. The Lake Frances Preserve is physically connected to the Lake Dan Preserve; together, they total over 2800 acres of preserve land.
Equestrian information
- Trailer parking for equestrian users is located at 11009 Tarpon Springs Road
- The equestrian trail is 6.4 miles in length and both the parking area and preserve will be closed at the peak of the summer rainy season during flooded conditions
- We do not provide horseback riding rentals; you must bring your own horse
Hiking safety guidelines
Always be prepared when hiking on nature preserves:
- Bring plenty of water
- Download the map
- Tell someone your plan
- Wear proper shoes and sun protection
- Stay on marked trails
- During the rainy season, many trails will have standing water.
- If you think you are lost, call us at (813) 672-7876
- In case of an emergency, call 911