Tuscawilla Preserve

SUMMARY

Size: 600 acres
Years conserved: 2005 to 2010
Partner Organizations: Florida Communities Trust and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

ABOUT THE PRESERVE

Tuscawilla Preserve includes a prairie and adjacent uplands with small creeks and mesic forests. Lake Tuscawilla contains open water during periods of high to moderate water levels and can be almost completely dry during prolonged droughts. This hydrologic variation is the limiting factor for much of the vegetation and defines the extent of the forest rim. The hardwood hammocks that surround the prairie are dominated by live oak, southern magnolia, hickories, and cabbage palms.

The wetlands consist of many small pools which are a favorite spot for wading birds, such as herons, egrets, ibises, and storks. Sandhill cranes visit the site every fall and several reside there on a full time basis. Raptors also use the area, as they nest and perch in the surrounding forest and forage across the open savanna. Reptiles and amphibians are common, including breeding populations of alligators, snakes, turtles, and frogs. Mammals include the entire suite of North Florida creatures such as deer, bobcat, raccoons, and otters.

Tuscawilla is the Seminole name of this area from the time of Chief Micanopy. Adjacent to the north of Tuscawilla Preserve is the Native American Heritage Preserve, purchased by the Town of Micanopy with funds provided by Florida Communities Trust. Within a few miles are many other documented archeological sites, such as King Payne's Village. William Bartram first visited the site in the spring of 1774 on his trek through North Florida. Lake Tuscwilla’s recent history includes its use for cattle grazing and other agricultural pursuits.

TRAILHEAD ADDRESS

Parking is available at the Micanopy Native American Heritage Park directly north from Tuscawilla Preserve. The Thrasher Trail can be found by traveling approximately 0.8 miles East of downtown Micanopy on SE Tuscawilla Road/SE 165th Avenue.

GPS coordinates: 29°30'08.4"N 82°16'11.2"W (Google Map)

GENERAL RULES & GUIDELINES

  • Preserve is open from sunrise to sunset.

  • Dogs are welcome as long as they remain on a leash.

  • Trails are unpaved and in some places can be muddy, uneven, or wet.

  • Drones are not permitted without permission from ACT.

  • Motorized vehicles are prohibited.

TRAIL MAP

Click on the map image to download the full preserve guide.

Tuscawilla Preserve was purchased with funds from the Florida Communities Trust.

Banner image by Kim Davidson.