Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park
100 Savannah Boulevard
Micanopy, Florida 32667
(352) 466-3397
Paynes Prairie encompasses over 22,000 acres of opportunities to enjoy cycling (bring a fat-tire bike), walking, equestrian trails, camping, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and boating. More than 20 distinct biological communities provide a rich array of habitats for wildlife, including alligators, deer, bison, wild horses and more than 270 species of birds. More than 800 species of plants and more than 400 species of vertebrates are found here. Eight trails provide opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and bicycling, including the 16 mile long, paved Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail. Fishing on Lake Wauberg is allowed and a boat ramp provides access for canoes, kayaks, and boats with electric motors. Gasoline powered boats are not allowed. Full-facility campsites are available for overnight visitors. Annual special events include Stargazing Party in January and Fire Fest in March. Special events and ranger programs are available on weekends, November through April. Here is a YouTube video of some sights and animals you might see at Paynes Prairie - enjoy! (has an ad - just click Skip)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EpTriXiuV6s
The park is open from 8:00 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year. It is located 10 miles south of Gainesville, in Micanopy, on the east side of US 441.
Fee Schedule
Main Entrance Admission
$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
LaChua Trail Admission
$2.00 per person
Bolen Bluff Admission
$2.00 per vehicle, limit 8 people
Picnic Pavilion Rental
$30.00 plus tax - Picnic pavilion seats 65 people.
Camping Fee:
$18.00 per night, plus tax. Includes water and electricity.
Florida residents who are 65 years of age or older or who hold a social security disability award certificate or a 100 percent disability award certificate from the Federal Government are permitted to receive a 50 percent discount on current base campsite fees (Proof of eligibility).
Group Camping (hike in only)
$4.00 per person, plus tax (minimum of $20.00 per night).