Background Info about Preserve:
The Blackwater Creek Nature Preserve was acquired from 1997 through 2003 by Hillsborough County through the Environmental Lands Acquisition and Protection Program (ELAPP) and Florida Communities Trust. This 1993-acre preserve includes some of the finest remaining examples of pine flatwoods, palmetto prairie and riverine swamp, interspersed with oak hammock, cypress swamp, freshwater marsh and wet prairie. A diverse array of fauna may be encountered while hiking in the preserve, including gopher tortoise, white-tailed deer, wild turkey and Sherman’s fox squirrel among many others. The preserve is a popular spot for native plant enthusiasts, who visit the open palmetto prairies to admire vast stands of blooming wiregrass dotted with striking wildflowers such as blazing star, Florida paintbrush and swamp sunflower. Visitors often relax on the unique rock outcroppings at the creek and listen to birds, frogs and the bubbling stream.
Cache placed with permission from Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department.