Celebrate National Take a Hike Day on Nov. 17 by exploring a District property

Get ready to lace up your boots and hit the trail! It’s almost National Take a Hike Day, and the St. Johns River Water Management District (District) invites residents and visitors to celebrate by exploring the natural lands that help protect Florida’s water resources.

The District owns more than 778,000 acres of public lands across 18 counties, balancing conservation with public recreation. These lands play a critical role in protecting water quality, storing and slowly releasing floodwaters and replenishing the Floridan aquifer, the primary source of drinking water for millions of Floridians.

“Every acre the District manages has a purpose,” said District Land Management Program Manager Jeremy Olson. “Our properties not only protect water and wildlife, but they also give people an opportunity to experience and understand the connection between healthy lands and clean water.”

Many of the conservation areas now open for hiking were once agricultural or degraded lands that have been restored to wetlands, floodplains and natural habitats. These restored systems act as natural filters, removing nutrients and sediments from stormwater before it reaches rivers, lakes and springs.

Access to District lands is free. Whether you’re interested in a peaceful walk, birdwatching or an all-day trek, District properties offer a variety of experiences for all skill levels. Some popular hiking destinations include:

• Lower St. Johns River Basin — Deep Creek Conservation Area (St. Johns County): Scenic trails through pine flatwoods and along blackwater streams that help filter water flowing to the St. Johns River.
• Middle St. Johns River Basin — Seminole Ranch Conservation Area (Orange/Seminole counties): More than 30 miles of trails through floodplain forests, wetlands and pasturelands along the St. Johns River.
• Ocklawaha River Basin — Sunnyhill Restoration Area (Marion County): Miles of multiuse trails along the restored Ocklawaha River floodplain, an important area for groundwater recharge and wildlife habitat.

• Indian River Lagoon and Upper St. Johns River Basin — Fort Drum Marsh Conservation Area (Indian River County): Protects headwaters of the St. Johns River while offering miles of trails through marshes, pine flatwoods and hardwood swamps.

Visitors are encouraged to practice responsible recreation by staying on marked trails, packing out what they bring in and respecting wildlife.

The District’s mission is to protect and ensure the sustainable use of Florida’s water resources through water supply planning, conservation and protection of springs and natural systems. By offering free public access to conservation lands, the District helps foster a deeper appreciation for the natural systems that protect the water we all depend on.

To find a trail near you and plan your visit, go to www.sjrwmd.com/lands/recreation for property maps, amenities, and seasonal updates.