Connor Preserve in Pasco County, Florida: Get Back to Nature

Last weekend my husband wanted to take a drive out to Connor Preserve which is located on State Road 52 in Pasco County, Florida just east of 41. The entrance can be a little easy to miss so keep your eye out on the south side of State Road 52. I was a little skeptical because he didn't seem to have much information on what was out there and I didn't know what I was in for, but I agreed to go and see what it was all about. As it turned out, it was well worth the trip.

The area is gated, however you just need to unlatch and open the gate to drive through. While we were there we ran into several people that apparently didn't read the sign and parked outside the gate and took a very long walk into the preserve. It's basically on the honor system. The gate is unlocked first thing in the morning and once you open it and drive through, just make sure to get back out and close it behind you. The last person who leaves the area at the end of the day must lock the gate. Just up the road you will see the area where there is a trailer and pavilions for the radio controlled flying. One side of the trailer is for flying airplanes and we witnessed some amazing stunt flying as well as really cool planes. There were two gentlemen there that day that both had the largest remote controlled plane I've ever seen. Most the people out there are more than willing to talk to you about their planes as they put some serious time and money into this hobby. These particular planes cost approximately $10,000 and appeared to be roughly four to five feet in length from nose to tail. The other half of the pavilion is for helicopters enthusiasts. These were quite exciting to watch and I was amazed at the tricks these guys could pull off. Unfortunately, we happen to be there just in time to witness one helicopter go down and it wasn't pretty. Just imagining the money that went into one of these and then the feeling of watching it crash and bust into pieces even got to me. It is enjoyable to watch the maneuvers performed by the more seasoned controllers.

After taking some time to watch the flying you can then take some time to stroll the preserve where you'll find a variety of habitats, including pine flatwoods to wetlands. It is a little piece of heaven set aside. There are trails marked throughout the area. Most trails are open to hikers, bicyclists and horseback riders. The grand opening of the preserve was on January 16th, so for now you probably won't run into too many people out there. We crossed paths with a family on bicycles, but they stated that the trails are a little hard for family riders. They are probably easier for serious off road bicyclists who can make it through some areas where the ground is pretty soft and sandy. Hiking is probably the best way to go unless you have a horse and the capability to transport it to the preserve. With approximately 3,000 acres you will have plenty of places to hike and ride. Keep your eyes open for deer, a variety of birds and even wild hogs. Make sure you bring some water, maybe a snack and possibly some bug spray, although in the cooler months, as it is now, I was not bothered by any pests during my hike.

Head on over and take a picnic lunch to enjoy while taking in the fresh air. If you're lucky, you may just arrive there on a day to see a model plane flying competition or other activities offered. This is a brand new preserve and there are plans for the near future to have camping and more amenities available. Now would be a great time to head on out there to take in the beauty while it is still fresh and pristine. Take it from someone who does not hike and always parks closest to the door. This was a nature hike that I am looking forward to taking again and again and with all the available trails, it would take several visits to see it all. What better way to spend a day with the family that doesn't cost a single solitary penny.