Introduction

Nestled in the heart of the Florida Everglades, the Fakahatchee Strand Preserve offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of North America's most intricate and biodiverse wilderness landscapes. From rare orchid species to the elusive Florida panther, this park represents a living museum of subtropical ecological complexity, inviting adventurers and naturalists to witness an ecosystem of extraordinary richness and delicate balance.

Background

The Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park represents an extraordinary ecological treasure, often referred to as the 'Amazon of North America'. This remarkable 85,000-acre preserve is a linear swamp forest that serves as a critical habitat corridor for numerous endangered species. Its unique topography creates microhabitats that support an astonishing diversity of plant and animal life, making it a premier destination for ecological research and nature enthusiasts.

History

Established in 1974, Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park emerged from a critical conservation effort to protect one of Florida's most unique ecological landscapes. Originally part of the vast Everglades ecosystem, this linear swamp forest has long been a sanctuary for rare and endangered species. The park's name, derived from the Seminole word meaning 'river of muck', reflects its rich, wet terrain that has sustained diverse wildlife for thousands of years.

Address: 137 Coast Line Dr, Copeland, FL 34137Get Directions

Total Trail Length: 2.5 miles

Fees: $3 per vehicle, $2 pedestrian/cyclist

Hours: 8:00 AM to sunset, daily

Phone: (239) 695-4593

More Info: Florida State Parks