Lake Harney Wilderness Area

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Parks

Florida

Nearby: Lake Proctor Wilderness Area Little Big Econlockhatchee Wildlife Management Area

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Harney Wilderness Area is a stunning natural landscape located in southeastern Florida.

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Summary

It is situated on the eastern shore of Lake Harney, which is a part of the St. Johns River system. The area is a great place for visitors to experience the natural beauty of Florida and enjoy a range of outdoor activities.

One of the main reasons to visit Lake Harney Wilderness Area is to witness its diverse wildlife. The area is home to a variety of species, including alligators, black bears, and sandhill cranes. Visitors can observe these animals in their natural habitat by hiking or biking along the many trails in the area.

In addition to its wildlife, Lake Harney Wilderness Area is also known for its scenic views and landscapes. Visitors can explore the many different ecosystems in the area, including wetlands, pine forests, and scrublands. The area is also home to several historic sites, including the remains of an old logging camp and a prehistoric Indian mound.

One of the most interesting facts about Lake Harney Wilderness Area is that it is named after William Harney, a U.S. Army officer who fought in the Second Seminole War. The area was created in 1992 and covers over 3,000 acres of land.

The best time of year to visit Lake Harney Wilderness Area is during the cooler months of the year, from November to April. This is when the temperatures are most comfortable for outdoor activities, and the wildlife is most active.

Overall, Lake Harney Wilderness Area is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and outdoor activities. With its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich history, it is a unique and fascinating place to explore.

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Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
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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