Stage 1 is a Preform with the final coords showing. You do not have to take the cap off.
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 has been returned to its natural environment. As of this publication, the Merritt Canal has been filled in and roads have been stripped of its old pavement. Much of the land in that area has been leveled. This will allow for the sheet flow of water during rainy season and much after until the water either flows South or enters the ground and is puritied. Much of the Picayune will now be covered with water much of the year. New vegetation is, or will, grow and the area is looking to be back to the prior natural state.
The Florida Forest Service manages the Picayune and is very Geocaching minded. They and the forest supervisor 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 Everglades Blvd. from the North. If entering at Sabal Palm Rd. from Collier Blvd (Rt 951), beware that the road may be flooded during much of the year.
There is a small $2 fee required. Use the provided QR code to pay your use fee.
Please obey all forest guidelines so that you (and all others) will be able to enjoy these lands forever. Most of all......... be safe.
Pamphlets 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.
All Picayune geocaches have been approved by:
James Kavanagh. - Recreation Forester and Volunteer Coordinator. (239-690-8031)
Sam Kroll - Forest Area Supervisor (239-229-0144)
Picayune Field Office - (239-348-7557)