Hickory Swamp Preserve
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Hickory Swamp Preserve is a nature preserve located in central Florida.
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Summary
The preserve is a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and birdwatchers due to its diverse ecosystem and abundance of wildlife.
One of the main attractions at Hickory Swamp Preserve is the hiking trails that wind through the preserve's various habitats, including pine flatwoods, cypress swamps, and hardwood hammocks. Visitors can also take guided tours of the preserve to learn more about the local flora and fauna.
Another point of interest at Hickory Swamp Preserve is the large population of wood storks that call the area home. The preserve is one of the few places in the state where visitors can see these endangered birds in their natural habitat.
Interesting facts about Hickory Swamp Preserve include the fact that it was once a working ranch before being donated to the state for conservation purposes. The preserve is also home to a number of rare and threatened plant species, including the Florida golden aster and the scrub lupine.
The best time of year to visit Hickory Swamp Preserve is during the cooler months, from November to April, when the weather is mild and wildlife is more active. Visitors should also be sure to bring insect repellent and sunscreen, as the preserve can be buggy and sunny.
Overall, Hickory Swamp Preserve is a unique and beautiful destination that offers visitors a chance to see some of Florida's most fascinating wildlife and natural habitats.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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