Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve
A remote Florida scrub reserve with vast pine forests, offering quiet nature walks and wildlife viewing opportunities on challenging sandy trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More comfortable hiking conditions
Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve
Best Time
More comfortable hiking conditions
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A remote Florida scrub reserve with vast pine forests, offering quiet nature walks and wildlife viewing opportunities on challenging sandy trails.
"Experience a quiet escape with vast pine forests and a sense of untouched Florida wilderness."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Trails are mostly sugar sand; wear shoes that can handle it. Sticky burrs can be an issue for pets.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
This is a remote area with no facilities. Stay hydrated, especially on longer hikes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
White Trail Loop
Eastern side
A challenging but rewarding hike through diverse pine habitats, offering a good workout and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Wildlife Encounters
Keep an eye out for diverse birdlife, raccoons, and other native Florida fauna in this natural scrub environment.
Remote Serenity
Experience a quiet escape with vast pine forests and a sense of untouched Florida wilderness.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for Sandy Trails
Pack Essentials for Remote Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Best towns in Florida for stargazing/seeing the perseids meteor shower?
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Trails are mostly sugar sand; wear shoes that can handle it. Sticky burrs can be an issue for pets.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
This is a remote area with no facilities. Stay hydrated, especially on longer hikes.
What's your most favorite place in Florida
The Florida Scrub Jay is found no where else but Florida. Having no fear of humans and will land on you just to check you out. Hopefully they will soon be our official state bird.
🦟 Bug Spray is Essential
Mosquitoes and other biting insects can be prevalent, particularly during warmer months.
🗺️ Check Trail Status
Some trails may be marked as closed or have access issues due to barbwire or private property.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Trails are mostly sugar sand; wear shoes that can handle it. Sticky burrs can be an issue for pets.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
This is a remote area with no facilities. Stay hydrated, especially on longer hikes.
🦟 Bug Spray is Essential
Mosquitoes and other biting insects can be prevalent, particularly during warmer months.
🗺️ Check Trail Status
Some trails may be marked as closed or have access issues due to barbwire or private property.
🚜 Not Ideal for Bikes
Sugar sand and potential mudholes make it challenging for mountain biking. Primarily suited for equestrian use.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve to be a quiet, natural escape with abundant pine trees and opportunities for wildlife spotting. However, the trails are predominantly sugar sand, making them challenging for hiking and unsuitable for biking, and facilities are very limited. Some reviewers found the trails less appealing than expected, citing basic service roads and potential access issues.
"Very quiet out here. So many pine trees!! I saw an Eastern Towhee, a hawk, a raccoon, and heard many other birds. I hiked the white trail loop on the eastern side; it'll definitely take the energy out of you. That's not even the longest trail! But definitely worth the drive. I was confused about it until I got there but the parking areas are just the grassy areas before either trailhead. Also, no restrooms really. A compost toilet is mentioned on the website but I couldn't find it. Make sure to bring bug spray and water. Wanna come again to do the western trails!"
Ramona Schuch
"NO!
So no, I don't want your number
No, I don't want to give you mine and
No, I don't want to meet you nowhere
No, I don't want none of your time
No, I don't want no scrub
All jokes aside, I was excited to hike here....but, it's not what you want..... it's bad. Really bad.
Basically plowed service roads, control burn areas and abandoned equipment....
We did get a cute tractor pic with our dog.
."
L P
"Camping nearby, I wanted to check this out for riding some trails with my 29er mountain bike. This is DEFINITELY not for bikes or even hiking. The trails are almost all sugar sand, with some hard packed areas. Definitely catered to equestrian use. I made it halfway around the loop and encountered a large mudhole with no way around and had to double back to exit the park."
Stacy C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The reserve is located in a remote area. Access is typically via County Road 347. Parking areas are often simple grassy spots before trailheads.
While there are parking areas, the remote nature and sandy conditions might make it challenging for larger RVs. Check specific access points before arrival.
Parking areas are usually found before the actual trailheads. Look for designated grassy pull-offs along the access roads.
No, public transportation is not available. A personal vehicle is necessary to reach Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve.
The town of Cedar Key is the closest significant settlement, offering amenities and lodging options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Information on entrance fees can vary. It's advisable to check the official Florida State Parks website or local signage for the most current fee structure. Some sources suggest it's free to enter.
State parks typically have dawn-to-dusk hours. Confirm specific opening and closing times on the Florida State Parks website before your visit.
Generally, no advance booking is required for state reserves. Entry is usually on a first-come, first-served basis for parking.
For general hiking and wildlife viewing, no special permits are typically needed. However, if you plan on specific activities like research or large group events, contact the park management.
Camping is not a primary feature of this reserve. It's more geared towards day-use activities. Nearby areas might offer camping options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The trails are predominantly sugar sand, which can be soft and challenging for hiking and biking. They are often described as old service roads.
Yes, it's a great spot for birdwatching. Visitors have reported seeing various species, including towhees and hawks.
Restroom facilities are very limited. A compost toilet is mentioned on the website, but some visitors have had trouble locating it.
Dogs are generally allowed in Florida State Parks on a leash. However, be mindful of the sandy trails and potential for sticky burrs on their fur.
You might encounter birds, raccoons, and other native Florida wildlife. The scrub habitat supports a variety of species.
📸 📸 Photography
The vast pine forests offer scenic views, especially during golden hour. Look for interesting textures in the sand and unique scrub vegetation.
Given its remote location and potential for dark skies, it could be suitable for astrophotography, especially if away from light pollution.
A versatile lens for landscapes and wildlife is recommended. Consider a wide-angle lens for the expansive scrub and a telephoto for distant wildlife.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. Always check park regulations.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for landscape photography, creating dramatic shadows and warm tones. Wildlife is also more active during these times.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Hikers Seeking Solitude
🐎 Equestrians
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails
While the trails might not be ideal for all activities, they offer a unique experience of Florida's scrub ecosystem. The White Trail Loop on the eastern side is noted as being particularly challenging but rewarding. For those looking for a more natural and less manicured experience, these sandy paths can be an adventure. Always check trail conditions if possible, and be prepared for a more rugged outing than you might expect.
Wildlife and Nature Observation
Beyond the fauna, the pine forests and scrub vegetation create a distinct landscape. The reserve is a great place to appreciate the resilience of plants adapted to sandy, nutrient-poor soils. It's a quiet, often uncrowded environment that allows for an immersive nature experience. Remember to bring binoculars for better wildlife viewing and a field guide to identify the species you encounter.
Remote Experience and Amenities
Facilities are minimal. While a compost toilet is mentioned on the park's website, some visitors have reported difficulty finding it or noted its absence. This lack of amenities underscores the need for self-sufficiency. Plan your visit with the understanding that you'll be largely on your own, which can be a significant part of its appeal for those seeking solitude and a true escape from civilization.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit