Tag: Paynes Prairie

• Barr Hammock near Gainesville is Ideal for Family-Friendly Hiking Through Pretty Old Growth Forest

  December 3, 2025

  Great Places to Hike and Backpack, Uncategorized

  Many University of Florida students are familiar with the hiking trails at Payne’s Prairie Preserve State Park.  But another collection of trails through a beautiful forest of tall live oaks and longleaf pines can be found not far south of Gainesville, and it’s free and easier to reach from I-75.  Barr Hammock Preserve is definitely Read.

• Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park near Gainesville is great for history, hiking, and horses

  July 23, 2025

  Uncategorized

  Anyone driving past Gainesville on I-75 will be familiar with Paynes Prairie, the huge savannah north of Micanopy that offers a panoramic break from the surrounding forests.  But the state park that includes Paynes Prairie and lies just south of the University of Florida is worth a closer look. Beyond providing a sanctuary for gators Read.