Welcome to the Picayune Strand State Forest
The Picayune Strand State Forest (commonly known as the "Picayune") is in the heart of the Big Cypress ecosystem. The strand is comprised of 78,000 acres and designated as a forest conservation area.
Once slated to be a residential town, that ultimately failed, the area was purchased by the state of Florida and with the help of federal funds is being returned to its natural environment. As of this publication, the Merritt Canal has been filled in and many roads have been stripped of its old pavement. Much of the land in that area has been leveled. New vegetation is, or will, grow and the area will soon be back to the prior natural state.
The Florida Forest Service manages the Picayune and is very Geocaching minded. They and the forest ranger graciously approve all cache hides and the welcoming of cachers to come and see the best of Florida's natural habitat while chasing that elusive Geocache. Come early, stay late, and go home tired.
Enter the Picayune via Sabal Palm Rd. from Collier Blvd (Rt 951).
There is a small $2 fee required. An envelope for your fee can be obtained at the "Iron Ranger" in the parking area. Please place the receipt on the dashboard of your vehicle where it can be seen.
Please obey all forest guidelines so that you (and all others) will be able to enjoy these lands forever. Most of all......... be safe.
Pamplets with guidelines about Geocaching, hiking, hunting, bird watching and etc. are attainable at the kiosk at the parking area.
Pay special attention to Hunting Season dates and regulations by wearing the prescribed amount of orange.
Keep a good eye out ahead as all of Florida's wild creatures inhabit the Picayune.