Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is a park in St. Petersburg that offers a variety of fun activities and ecosystems to explore. Hike around Lake Maggiore through swamp, willow marsh, pine flatwoods, sand pine scrub and hardwood hammocks ecosystems. Also be sure to keep a lookout for alligators, birds, snakes, butterflies, gopher tortoises and more.
Birds of Prey Program
Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is a safe, healthy home to birds of prey who are permanently injured and non-releasable to the wild. These birds are Wild Avian Ambassadors for environmental education programs. You can see bald eagles, falcons, vultures and owls up close!
Hiking and Things to Do
There are over 6 miles of trails at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve. Hike boardwalks over swamps, shaded paths through massive live oaks, and even over a bridge onto Lake Maggiore Island. One of the biggest draws of Boyd Hill Preserve is the distinct ecosystems.
Walk all the boardwalk trails for the best chance to see alligators! Usually we see lots of baby alligators hanging around the swamp. Sometimes you can also see some bigger ones out in the lake.
We recommend taking the Main Trail (yellow on the map) which takes you next to the lake and through pine flatwoods. There are a few boardwalks and other trails that loop off from the Main Trail. You will have an opportunity to see many native Florida plants and animals. Our favorite part of the hike is along the pine flatwoods portion of the trail, where we saw four gopher tortoises.
There is also a 5k path through some of the trails, which is marked by signs. There are often trail run 5k events at the park.

Biking is permitted at the park and some of the paths are paved. No pets are allowed.

There are several shelters throughout the park, some with water stations. Picnic tables are also located at the park entrance. A playground is located near the park entrance.
Tram Tours of the trails are available daily at 1:00 pm. Saturday Tram Tours depart at 10:00 am & 1:00 pm. Fee is $5 for adults and $3.50 for children ages 3 through 16.
Park Information
Hours: 9am – 7pm, or 9am – 6pm during winter months. Closed Monday.
Admission: $3 Adult, $1.50 Child (Age 3 to 16), 2 and under free

Pingback: Must Visit Tampa Bay Parks - Florida Lives
Pingback: 45 Free and Cheap Things to Do in Tampa Bay - Florida Lives