Seminole State Forest, located in Eustis in Lake County, boasts 18 different ecological communities, each with its own unique animals and plants, 15 springs, the Black Water Creek, and the Wekiva River. Sand pine scrub measuring 4300 acres provides a home for Scrub-Jays, Eastern Indigo Snakes, Hooded Pitcher Plants, and the iconic Florida Black Bear.
Acquired under the Conservation and Recreation Land, Save Our Rivers, Preservation 2000, and Florida Forever programs, Seminole State Forest is managed by the Florida Forest Service.
A hiker’s paradise awaits you at Seminole State Forest. There are more than 34 miles of hiking trails maintained by the Florida Trail Association. The National Scenic Trail crosses thru a 16-mile expanse of the Seminole State Forest and runs from Rt. 46 to the Ocala Forest. The North Sulphur Island Loop Trail is 8.5 miles and the Lower Wekiva Loop Trail is 10.4 miles.
There are 25 miles of equestrian trails and 25 miles of open roads and trails for bicyclists. Explore Black Water Creek in your canoe or kayak. Drive-in access for automobiles requires a permit.
Camp at one of the 5 primitive campsites, cook your dinner on the fire ring, and eat at the provided picnic table. Three additional walk-up campsites are located on the Florida National Scenic Trail.
Pets are welcome when on a leash.
Seminole State Forest is located in the Wekiva River basin and has 2 entrances. The Bear Pond Trailhead is located off of State Road 46, approximately 5 miles west of Interstate 4. Cassia Trailhead is located off of Brantley Branch Road, 0.1 miles east of State Road 44 in Cassia.
For more information: Seminole State Forest / State Forests / Our Forests / Florida Forest Service / Divisions & Offices / Home – Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services
For more information: 
https://www.fdacs.gov/…/Our-Forests/S…/Seminole-State-Forest
Photo Credit: Andy Waldo
