| Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park | |
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| IUCN Category V (Protected Landscape/Seascape) | |
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| Location | Alachua County, Florida, USA |
| Nearest city | Gainesville, Florida |
| Coordinates | Coordinates: |
| Area | 21,000 acres (85 km²) |
| Established | 1971 |
| Governing body | Florida Department of Environmental Protection |
Paynes Prairie is a Florida State Park, encompassing a 21,000 acre (85 km²) savanna south of Gainesville, Florida, in Micanopy. It is also a U.S. National Natural Landmark. It is crossed by both I-75 and U.S. 441 (which has a scenic outlook ramp).
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History
The prairie became the stronghold of the Alachua band of the Seminole tribe under chief Ahaya the Cowkeeper in the 18th century. It is named for the Cowkeeper's eldest surviving son, Payne. There have been times when the prairie's drainage become so blocked that it flooded, causing the formation of a lake. The most recent such occurrence was in 1871, and lasted until 1886. During this period, steamboats were a frequent sight on what was called Alachua Lake.
Fauna
Over 270 species of birds can be seen in the park as well as alligators and bison. The bison were reintroduced to the park from Oklahoma in the mid 1970s. As a part of the park service goal of restoring Florida's natural resources to pre-European settler conditions, the bison were reintroduced because they once roamed this area until the early 1800s. It is rare to see them, but the best place to look for them is along the Cone's Dike trail.
Recreational activities
The park contains exhibits and an audio-visual program at the visitor center that explains 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 different trails provide opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and bicycling. Ranger-led activities are offered on weekends, November through April. Fishing on Lake Wauburg is allowed and a boat ramp provides access for canoes and boats with electric motors. Full-facility campsites are available for overnight visitors. The park is a 'gateway site' for the Great Florida Birding Trail.
Hours
Florida state parks are open between 8 A.M. and sundown every day of the year (including holidays).
Gallery
 Just one of the many Alligators. |
 Looking north from the observation tower |
 Sunset from the observation deck |
 A Wood Stork at Paines Prairie. |
References and external links
- Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park at Florida State Parks
- Alachua County Historic Structures at Alachua County Historic Resources
- University of Florida George A. Smathers Libraries
- Friends of Paynes Prairie
- Paynes Prairie is at coordinates Coordinates:
