Find a Park

Wildlife thrives in this vast Central Florida park where forests, lakes and natural communities beg to be explored. We offer several different kinds of camping experiences, including an equestrian campground and a group campground.

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.