Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive re-opens for public use

Alligator peering out of the water

Please respect Florida’s wildlife and use caution while visiting District lands. For your safety, do not approach or feed any wild animal

Alligator peering out of the water

Please respect Florida’s wildlife and use caution while visiting District lands. For your safety, do not approach or feed any wild animal

PALATKA, Fla., Nov.16, 2022 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is re-opening the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive for public use beginning Nov.18. The drive was closed last week due to safety concerns, including a downed powerline that blocked the drive’s exit and high-water levels throughout the property following Tropical Storm Nicole.

The drive is a one-way, 11-mile drive meandering through the eastern portion of the District’s Lake Apopka North Shore property. Visitors will want to plan for approximately one to three hours to complete the experience, depending on the usage and how many stops they choose to make along the way. Stopping is limited to designated pull-outs provided along the length of the drive.

The Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive entrance gate is open for vehicular traffic between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and federal holidays. All vehicles must exit the drive by 5 p.m.

For the more information and to access an audio tour, visit our website at www.sjrwmd.com/lands/recreation/lake-apopka/wildlife-drive.