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Paynes Prairie is an unpredictable Florida treasure, boasting herds of wild horses and bison, nearly 300 species of birds and a unique ecosystem that visitors will enjoy exploring. The park’s eight trails, including the 16-mile paved Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail, allow one to explore the park’s interior and observe wildlife, while a 50-foot high observation tower provides for panoramic views.

Surrounded by quiet woods and huge trees, anglers can spend a relaxing afternoon fishing on the river. The Santa Fe River goes underground in O'Leno State Park and reemerges over three miles away in River Rise Preserve State Park before resuming its journey to the Suwannee River.

One of Florida’s first state parks, the otherworldly Florida Caverns offers visitors the opportunity to go underground and experience a part of the state that few know exists.