Seabranch Preserve State Park

An environmentalist's victory over savage land developers in Florida, Seabranch Preserve State Park is home to the waters of Manatee Creek and diverse habitat packed into four distinct natural habitats unique to Florida's southeast coast.

While the park is still young, it is still in early development stages and amenities are limited. Future development is slated in the near future that include a boardwalk, interpretive displays and a kiosk.

Geologists have determined this area was once shaped by ancient oceans tens of millions of years old. Today, the preserve is home to unique and diverse wildlife due to these ancient oceans. It is home to four distinct forest zones that are closely packed together and all four areas can be accessed by the hiking trails that wind their way throughout Seabranch Preserve State Park.

Eight miles of prime hiking trails are available to all visitors that come to the preserve. These trails are well marked and well maintained, perfect for a great early morning or afternoon hike through some of Florida's most diverse nature hikes.

Hikers along Seabranch Preserve State Parks many miles of trails will pass through rare sand pine scrub forests, mangrove swamps, baygalls, mangrove swamps and scrubby flatwoods. These rare and unique forest communities are tightly packed within a four mile radius from each other.

Rare and unique plants and animals abound throughout Seabranch Preserve State Park. Scrub lupine is an endangered biennial herb that grows in the sandy soils of the scrub. Its amazing smelling flower blooms and pulpy stems have long been used by Native Americans for their healing powers.

Two hiking trails offer two different perspectives of the park. The Gomez Trail can easily be traversed in a half day of hiking for experienced backpackers. It takes explorers through an easy and well maintained open hike experience.

A best trail is the Stokes Trail. It is the longest trail and takes hikers through the four distinct habitats of Seabranch Preserve State Park. This five mile trail is an easy hike but hot during summer and spring. Pack enough water with you before you leave for the park as there is none at either of the trailheads.

A small picnic shelter is the only amenity available at Seabranch Preserve State Park. Two picnic tables with grills are set up, but no water is available at this time. A metal roof covers the two picnic tables and creates the no walled shelter.

For more information on directions to this unique Florida hiking experience, visit the official Florida state park website here.