Welcome to the Florida Communities Trust Parks Directory
Since 1991, the Department of Community Affairs and Florida Communities Trust have assisted Florida communities by providing grant funds to acquire land for parks and open spaces. As Florida continues to grow, these lands are crucial to protecting the state’s precious natural, cultural and historical resources. Preservation 2000 and Florida Forever funds awarded by the Trust have resulted in a collection of local and regional parks as diverse as Florida’s communities – from beachfront parks like Loggerhead Park Preserve in Melbourne Beach to such urban parks as Tampa’s Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park. Each of these wonderful locations offers a wide range of recreational opportunities while providing Floridians and visitors with the chance to experience nature first-hand.
This directory provides an easy way to find out more about the Florida Communities Trust parks in your community and those you may visit. Please take a few minutes to view an introduction video* by Governor Charlie Crist and browse through these listings – you may be pleasantly surprised to learn just how much there is to see and do!
*Download the free QuickTime Player.
Park of the Month:
Peace River ParkWe are proud to honor the City of Wauchula's Peace River Park as our Park of the Month for September 2010.
THIS MONTH'S EVENTS
09/01/2010 - 09/29/2010
Start Smart Tennis
Marathon Community Park
From 6:15 until 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday nights. This program is designed to teach young children ages 5-7 the fundamentals of tennis. Parent involvement is part of the program. The $50 fee includes all tennis equipment needed. Each child will keep this equipment. To register, or for more information, call 305-743-6598.
Marathon Community Park
From 6:15 until 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday nights. This program is designed to teach young children ages 5-7 the fundamentals of tennis. Parent involvement is part of the program. The $50 fee includes all tennis equipment needed. Each child will keep this equipment. To register, or for more information, call 305-743-6598.
09/01/2010 - 09/29/2010
Adult Beginner Tennis
Marathon Community Park
Wednesday nights beginning at 7:30 p.m. This program is for adults ages 21 and over who have never played tennis or who have played very little tennis. The program is free but participants are required to bring their own racquets. To register, or for more information, call 305-743-6598.
Marathon Community Park
Wednesday nights beginning at 7:30 p.m. This program is for adults ages 21 and over who have never played tennis or who have played very little tennis. The program is free but participants are required to bring their own racquets. To register, or for more information, call 305-743-6598.
09/02/2010
Guided Nature Walk
Hickey's Creek Mitigation Park
From 9 until 11 a.m. Join us as we explore natural plant communities on this guided walk. See first hand the plants and animals that make southwest Florida so unique. Participants should be able to walk approximately two miles. Please dress appropriately and bring a water bottle. Children must be accompanied by an adult. This trail is not stroller or handicap accessible. This program is free with paid parking and registration is not required. Limit 25 participants. For more information please call Kelly at (239) 822-5212.
Hickey's Creek Mitigation Park
From 9 until 11 a.m. Join us as we explore natural plant communities on this guided walk. See first hand the plants and animals that make southwest Florida so unique. Participants should be able to walk approximately two miles. Please dress appropriately and bring a water bottle. Children must be accompanied by an adult. This trail is not stroller or handicap accessible. This program is free with paid parking and registration is not required. Limit 25 participants. For more information please call Kelly at (239) 822-5212.
09/03/2010
09/04/2010 - 09/25/2010
09/07/2010
Screen on the Green
Pier Park
Starts at dusk. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.playballinparadise.com.
Pier Park
Starts at dusk. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.playballinparadise.com.
09/08/2010
"What Bug is THAT?" Guided Insect Identification Walk
Curry Creek Preserve
From 9 until 11 a.m. Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks', click ‘Go’ and choose your event. Follow the directions for registration. Space for this walk is limited to 20. If you are having problems with on-line registration, contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask for Natural Resources.
Curry Creek Preserve
From 9 until 11 a.m. Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks', click ‘Go’ and choose your event. Follow the directions for registration. Space for this walk is limited to 20. If you are having problems with on-line registration, contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask for Natural Resources.
09/08/2010
Take a Walk on the West Side of the Preserve
Manasota Scrub Preserve
From 9 until 11 a.m. Learn how the preserve got its name and enjoy a leisurely walk on the west side of the preserve exploring regions seldom traveled by the regular visitors. Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a light jacket, a hat, sun screen, insect repellent, drinking water, binoculars (optional), camera and hand lens (optional). Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks', and choose your event. Follow the instructions within the registration form. Space for this walk is limited to 20. If you are having problems with on-line registration, contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask for Natural Resources.
Manasota Scrub Preserve
From 9 until 11 a.m. Learn how the preserve got its name and enjoy a leisurely walk on the west side of the preserve exploring regions seldom traveled by the regular visitors. Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a light jacket, a hat, sun screen, insect repellent, drinking water, binoculars (optional), camera and hand lens (optional). Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks', and choose your event. Follow the instructions within the registration form. Space for this walk is limited to 20. If you are having problems with on-line registration, contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask for Natural Resources.
09/10/2010
Astronomy for Amateurs
Hickey's Creek Mitigation Park
Starts at 8:15 p.m. This program is designed to show beginning astronomers how to easily find stars, constellations and planets. Bring binoculars, water, bug spray, a flashlight and a lawn chair or something to sit on. We will meet in the parking lot. This program is free with paid parking but may be cancelled due to inclement weather, clouds, or if the minimum of 6 participants is not met. For more information please call Kelly at 822 – 5212. Register online at www.leeparks.org or by calling (239) 533 - 7440.
Hickey's Creek Mitigation Park
Starts at 8:15 p.m. This program is designed to show beginning astronomers how to easily find stars, constellations and planets. Bring binoculars, water, bug spray, a flashlight and a lawn chair or something to sit on. We will meet in the parking lot. This program is free with paid parking but may be cancelled due to inclement weather, clouds, or if the minimum of 6 participants is not met. For more information please call Kelly at 822 – 5212. Register online at www.leeparks.org or by calling (239) 533 - 7440.
09/11/2010
Bird and Butterfly Survey
Palatlakaha Environmental and Agricultural Reserve (PEAR) Park
From 7 until 10 a.m. Experienced volunteers are invited to help Lake County Rangers conduct a census of our winged and feathered friends. Participants should be able to identify most common species by sight or sound. Bring a pair of binoculars and field guides. Reservations are encouraged.
Palatlakaha Environmental and Agricultural Reserve (PEAR) Park
From 7 until 10 a.m. Experienced volunteers are invited to help Lake County Rangers conduct a census of our winged and feathered friends. Participants should be able to identify most common species by sight or sound. Bring a pair of binoculars and field guides. Reservations are encouraged.
09/14/2010
Sun Style Tai Chi
Robinson Preserve
From 6 until 7 p.m. Discover the ancient Chinese art of Tai Chi. Sensei Brian Nell will lead participants through a gentle Qigong warm up and the short form of Sun Style Tai Chi. This gentle martial art form will help relieve stress from a long workday. Health benefits of Tai Chi include promotion of balance control, flexibility, cardiovascular fitness, and much more. Program is suitable for all ages. Please let us know if you would like to attend! Please call 941-748-4501 ext. 4605.
Robinson Preserve
From 6 until 7 p.m. Discover the ancient Chinese art of Tai Chi. Sensei Brian Nell will lead participants through a gentle Qigong warm up and the short form of Sun Style Tai Chi. This gentle martial art form will help relieve stress from a long workday. Health benefits of Tai Chi include promotion of balance control, flexibility, cardiovascular fitness, and much more. Program is suitable for all ages. Please let us know if you would like to attend! Please call 941-748-4501 ext. 4605.
09/18/2010
Naturalist-Led Wagon Tours
Robinson Preserve
Starts at 8:00 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. Take a relaxed ride through Robinson Preserve in the Department’s Conestoga wagons. Your naturalist tour guide will explain the preserve’s history, resident wildlife, fabulous flowers, and describe preserve highlights. Two 60-minute long trips will be taken during this timeframe and participants may register for one. A fee of $3.00 per adult and $2.00 per child (includes tax) will be charged. Suitable for all ages. Reservations are required. Please arrive 15 minutes before departure as we depart promptly at the posted time. Seats will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Please call 941-742-5757 ext. 1.
Robinson Preserve
Starts at 8:00 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. Take a relaxed ride through Robinson Preserve in the Department’s Conestoga wagons. Your naturalist tour guide will explain the preserve’s history, resident wildlife, fabulous flowers, and describe preserve highlights. Two 60-minute long trips will be taken during this timeframe and participants may register for one. A fee of $3.00 per adult and $2.00 per child (includes tax) will be charged. Suitable for all ages. Reservations are required. Please arrive 15 minutes before departure as we depart promptly at the posted time. Seats will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Please call 941-742-5757 ext. 1.
09/18/2010
Gulf Coast Community College Sun Run
Pier Park
Race day registration for the 5K Run/Walk begins at 6:30 a.m. The event kicks off with the half-marathon at 7:30 a.m., followed by the 5K and the Fun Run/Walk. To register and for more information, visit http://www.gulfcoast.edu/foundation/SunRun2010.htm.
Pier Park
Race day registration for the 5K Run/Walk begins at 6:30 a.m. The event kicks off with the half-marathon at 7:30 a.m., followed by the 5K and the Fun Run/Walk. To register and for more information, visit http://www.gulfcoast.edu/foundation/SunRun2010.htm.
09/18/2010
2010 Florida Coastal Cleanup
Loggerhead Park Preserve
We’ll be cleaning up the beach and the FCT funded Loggerhead Park Preserve. Come join us for some fun! The event will be from 8am to 11am. Supplies and refreshments will be provided so just bring your enthusiasm! Please meet and park at the end of Ocean Avenue at Ocean Park in Melbourne Beach to pick up your supplies. Call Curtis Byrd at (321) 724-9916 for more details if needed.
Loggerhead Park Preserve
We’ll be cleaning up the beach and the FCT funded Loggerhead Park Preserve. Come join us for some fun! The event will be from 8am to 11am. Supplies and refreshments will be provided so just bring your enthusiasm! Please meet and park at the end of Ocean Avenue at Ocean Park in Melbourne Beach to pick up your supplies. Call Curtis Byrd at (321) 724-9916 for more details if needed.
09/18/2010
Natural Area Clean-up - Volunteer Event
Delray Oaks Natural Area
From 8:00 until 11:00 a.m. Volunteers should wear long pants, t-shirts, sneakers or hiking boots. Poison ivy is found at this site - so again, long pants are encouraged! Volunteers should wear old clothes and shoes as we will be working in brush-filled areas. Restroom facilities are not available at the natural area. Closest restroom facility is located at Congress Ave. and Linton Blvd. The Department will supply tools, gloves, and refreshments. Event participation is limited to the first 25 volunteers who register. To register or for more information, contact Ann Mathews at 561-233-2426 or e-mail amathews@co.palm-beach.fl.us.
Delray Oaks Natural Area
From 8:00 until 11:00 a.m. Volunteers should wear long pants, t-shirts, sneakers or hiking boots. Poison ivy is found at this site - so again, long pants are encouraged! Volunteers should wear old clothes and shoes as we will be working in brush-filled areas. Restroom facilities are not available at the natural area. Closest restroom facility is located at Congress Ave. and Linton Blvd. The Department will supply tools, gloves, and refreshments. Event participation is limited to the first 25 volunteers who register. To register or for more information, contact Ann Mathews at 561-233-2426 or e-mail amathews@co.palm-beach.fl.us.
09/22/2010
Enjoy Fall's Splendor
Manasota Scrub Preserve
From 9 until 11 a.m. Guests will enjoy a limited opportunity to visit the rosemary scrub on the west side of Bridge Street along with gazing at lavender blazing stars, scrub spurges, creamy jointweeds and golden Indian grasses, just to name a few of the many plants and fall wildflowers we expect to see. Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks', and choose your event. Follow the instructions for registration. Space for this walk is limited to 20. If you are having problems with on-line registration, contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask for Natural Resources.
Manasota Scrub Preserve
From 9 until 11 a.m. Guests will enjoy a limited opportunity to visit the rosemary scrub on the west side of Bridge Street along with gazing at lavender blazing stars, scrub spurges, creamy jointweeds and golden Indian grasses, just to name a few of the many plants and fall wildflowers we expect to see. Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks', and choose your event. Follow the instructions for registration. Space for this walk is limited to 20. If you are having problems with on-line registration, contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask for Natural Resources.
09/23/2010
09/24/2010
Bird Survey
Ferndale Preserve
From 7 until 10 a.m. Enjoy stunning views of Lake Apopka while taking a census of our feathered friends. We need your help to know the birds living here for the summer and those that will be moving on for the season. So grab your binoculars, fields guides, and notebooks. Ability to identify common species a plus but only enthusiasm required. Reservations are encouraged.
Ferndale Preserve
From 7 until 10 a.m. Enjoy stunning views of Lake Apopka while taking a census of our feathered friends. We need your help to know the birds living here for the summer and those that will be moving on for the season. So grab your binoculars, fields guides, and notebooks. Ability to identify common species a plus but only enthusiasm required. Reservations are encouraged.
09/25/2010
Neal Preserve Sneak Peek Bike Tour
Robinson Preserve
From 9:00 until 11:00 a.m. Be the first to see the brand new Neal Preserve! This special bicycle ride will begin in Robinson Preserve and travel down the paved Spoonbill Trail to Manatee Avenue. From there, we will travel along the road to Neal Preserve. We will take a short break to check out Manatee County’s newest preserve before returning to Robison Preserve. Neal Preserve is only accessible during Sneak Peek Tours, so come be the first to see this new location! Program participants must have their own bicycle. Helmets are recommended, and required for children age 15 and under. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations are required. Please call 941-748-4501 ext. 4605.
Robinson Preserve
From 9:00 until 11:00 a.m. Be the first to see the brand new Neal Preserve! This special bicycle ride will begin in Robinson Preserve and travel down the paved Spoonbill Trail to Manatee Avenue. From there, we will travel along the road to Neal Preserve. We will take a short break to check out Manatee County’s newest preserve before returning to Robison Preserve. Neal Preserve is only accessible during Sneak Peek Tours, so come be the first to see this new location! Program participants must have their own bicycle. Helmets are recommended, and required for children age 15 and under. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations are required. Please call 941-748-4501 ext. 4605.
09/25/2010
Fall Bird Hike
Palatlakaha Environmental and Agricultural Reserve (PEAR) Park
From 8 until 10 a.m. During the 3-mile hike, participants will look for the birds at the park. During past fall hikes, park rangers saw a Red-Spotted Purple Butterfly, Swainson's Hawk and a Painted Bunting! Reservations are encouraged.
Palatlakaha Environmental and Agricultural Reserve (PEAR) Park
From 8 until 10 a.m. During the 3-mile hike, participants will look for the birds at the park. During past fall hikes, park rangers saw a Red-Spotted Purple Butterfly, Swainson's Hawk and a Painted Bunting! Reservations are encouraged.
09/25/2010
Fall Bird Walk
Curry Creek Preserve
From 9 until 11 a.m. Participants should wear long pants, comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket, sunscreen and a hat, and bring insect repellent, drinking water, binoculars (optional), camera and hand lens (optional). Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks', and choose your event. Follow the instructions for registration. Space for this walk is limited to 20. If you are having problems with on-line registration, contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask for Natural Resources.
Curry Creek Preserve
From 9 until 11 a.m. Participants should wear long pants, comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket, sunscreen and a hat, and bring insect repellent, drinking water, binoculars (optional), camera and hand lens (optional). Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks', and choose your event. Follow the instructions for registration. Space for this walk is limited to 20. If you are having problems with on-line registration, contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask for Natural Resources.
09/25/2010
Disc Dog Tournament and Expo
Oyster Creek Regional Park
From 9 a.m. until noon. Pre-registration is encouraged. The event will be free to the public. Food and drink vendors as well as businesses, rescues and representatives from animal shelters will also be present. For registration and vendor information please call 941-681-3742.
Oyster Creek Regional Park
From 9 a.m. until noon. Pre-registration is encouraged. The event will be free to the public. Food and drink vendors as well as businesses, rescues and representatives from animal shelters will also be present. For registration and vendor information please call 941-681-3742.
09/25/2010
Natural Area Clean-up - Volunteer Event
Limestone Creek Natural Area
From 8:00 until 11:00 a.m. Volunteers should wear old shoes and clothing for this event as some of the work areas are wet and muddy. Volunteers must wear closed-toe shoes – no sandals or flip-flops will be allowed. There are no restroom facilities available at the site. Restrooms are available in various convenience stores and fast food restaurants along Indiantown Road. Tools, gloves, and refreshments will be provided. Event participation is limited to the first 20 volunteers who register. Volunteers can register for an event by either calling Ann Mathews at 561-233-2426 or e-mailing amathews@co.palm-beach.fl.us
Limestone Creek Natural Area
From 8:00 until 11:00 a.m. Volunteers should wear old shoes and clothing for this event as some of the work areas are wet and muddy. Volunteers must wear closed-toe shoes – no sandals or flip-flops will be allowed. There are no restroom facilities available at the site. Restrooms are available in various convenience stores and fast food restaurants along Indiantown Road. Tools, gloves, and refreshments will be provided. Event participation is limited to the first 20 volunteers who register. Volunteers can register for an event by either calling Ann Mathews at 561-233-2426 or e-mailing amathews@co.palm-beach.fl.us
09/25/2010
National Public Lands Day Volunteer Work Day
Cypress Lakes Preserve
Starts at 8 a.m. Following a short talk about the Preserve and the needed work, volunteers will clean up trash and debris along the secluded southeastern side of the Cypress Lake. Work will be completed by noon. Unless other activities are planned in conjunction with National Public Lands Day, an optional guided nature walk will be offered following completion of work. Volunteers should wear long pants and sturdy shoes with closed toes. Please bring your own gloves, eye protection, insect repellent, sun screen, drinking water, and a five gallon bucket. Useful tools might include cultivating rakes and hoes for uncovering trash.
Cypress Lakes Preserve
Starts at 8 a.m. Following a short talk about the Preserve and the needed work, volunteers will clean up trash and debris along the secluded southeastern side of the Cypress Lake. Work will be completed by noon. Unless other activities are planned in conjunction with National Public Lands Day, an optional guided nature walk will be offered following completion of work. Volunteers should wear long pants and sturdy shoes with closed toes. Please bring your own gloves, eye protection, insect repellent, sun screen, drinking water, and a five gallon bucket. Useful tools might include cultivating rakes and hoes for uncovering trash.
09/28/2010
Caloosahatchee to Hickey's Creek Kayak Trip
Hickey's Creek Mitigation Park
From 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. This six-hour kayak trip begins and ends at Caloosahatchee Regional Park campground. Paddlers should be experienced and/or be in good physical condition for a 5 mile roundtrip paddle on the Great Calusa Blueway which includes Hickey's Creek, one of the areas most scenic waterways. We'll eat lunch and hike at Hickey's Creek Mitigation Park before paddling back. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. All kayaking equipment is provided. Bring your own drink, lunch, sunscreen, binoculars and clothing/shoes that can get wet. We will meet at the campground entrance at 19130 North River Rd. $40 per person. For more information call Kelly at (239) 822 - 5212. Register online at www.leeparks.org or by calling (239) 533 - 7440.
Hickey's Creek Mitigation Park
From 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. This six-hour kayak trip begins and ends at Caloosahatchee Regional Park campground. Paddlers should be experienced and/or be in good physical condition for a 5 mile roundtrip paddle on the Great Calusa Blueway which includes Hickey's Creek, one of the areas most scenic waterways. We'll eat lunch and hike at Hickey's Creek Mitigation Park before paddling back. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. All kayaking equipment is provided. Bring your own drink, lunch, sunscreen, binoculars and clothing/shoes that can get wet. We will meet at the campground entrance at 19130 North River Rd. $40 per person. For more information call Kelly at (239) 822 - 5212. Register online at www.leeparks.org or by calling (239) 533 - 7440.
09/29/2010
Sunset Hoop Jam
Robinson Preserve
From 6:00 until 7:30 p.m. Check out the latest fitness craze that is sweeping the nation! Hoola hooping is back and becoming an art form. Join us for a chance to hoop and dance in the fading sunset light at Robinson Preserve. We will meet across from the Valentine House to hoop in the shade of the trees and share new tricks. Beginners to pros are welcome! Program is suitable for all ages. If you have a hoop, please bring it! Some hoops will be available for participants to use. Please let us know if you would like to attend! Please call 941-748-4501 ext. 4605.
Robinson Preserve
From 6:00 until 7:30 p.m. Check out the latest fitness craze that is sweeping the nation! Hoola hooping is back and becoming an art form. Join us for a chance to hoop and dance in the fading sunset light at Robinson Preserve. We will meet across from the Valentine House to hoop in the shade of the trees and share new tricks. Beginners to pros are welcome! Program is suitable for all ages. If you have a hoop, please bring it! Some hoops will be available for participants to use. Please let us know if you would like to attend! Please call 941-748-4501 ext. 4605.
09/30/2010 - 10/03/2010
Thunder Beach Autumn Rally
Pier Park
Features live music, demo rides, poker run, and more. For more information, visit www.playballinparadise.com.
Pier Park
Features live music, demo rides, poker run, and more. For more information, visit www.playballinparadise.com.
Florida Communities Trust is not responsible for events that are rescheduled or canceled at Florida Communities Trust-funded parks.