A natural landform between Gainesville and Micanopy, Paynes Prairie is an immense and ever-changing basin
Conservation Articles
Articles on land and wildlife conservation efforts, as well as the management of Florida’s waters.
Conservation articles
Identifying Florida Species
Use our photos and descriptions from Florida’s outdoors to help you identify Florida birds, plants, trees, wildlife, and more
Bioluminescence on the Indian River Lagoon
It’s a summer thing, this shimmering glow of blue that rises from the shallows of Florida’s largest lagoon. Learn why it happens and how to see it yourself.
Bear season in Florida
As Florida black bears become active in late winter and spring, the chances of a bear encounter go up significantly if you leave food unsecured outdoors – whether in your campsite or at home.
Celebrate National Public Lands Day
Saturday, September 22 is the 25th annual National Public Lands Day, celebrated on federal lands across America with fee-free entry and volunteer activities.
Our National Trails Legacy
Our beloved Florida Trail is only one piece in a nationwide network of trails born of the National Trails System Act, established 50 years ago by the U.S. Congress. Learn about the many National Trails across America.
Alligators Everywhere
In spring, alligators become more active as the days warm up. It’s also mating season, so alligators are on the move. Expect to see them anywhere and everywhere along Florida’s trails.
Do Not Feed the Bears
Bear bagging is the art of hanging your food properly out of reach of bears. If you’re a Florida backpacker and haven’t learned how, here’s a short course. Securing your food from bears is required in the Ocala, Osceola, and Apalachicola National Forests.
Beneath the Withlacoochee
Way down under the Withlacoochee State Forest, there’s a whole other world waiting to be explored in its caves.
Closing the Florida Trail Big Bend Gap
How do we close the gap in the Florida Trail between the Suwannee and Aucilla Rivers? Learn the history of how the trail was developed and routed through that region, the discussions going on now, and a potential solution for future protection of the trail corridor.
Among the Wolves
When getting to know wolves means sitting among them, it’s a bit intimidating. But being among the wolf packs of Seacrest Wolf Preserve near Chipley will open your eyes as to why wolves are well worth protecting.
Reflections on the National Park Centennial
Reflections on our National Parks during the Centennial celebration this week, with a wander through Canaveral National Seashore in both New Smyrna Beach and Titusville
