Fern Forest Nature Center
Discover a lush urban oasis with diverse fern varieties, native habitats, and a nature center. Free admission for immersive trails and wildlife spotti...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer bugs
Fern Forest Nature Center
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer bugs
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a lush urban oasis with diverse fern varieties, native habitats, and a nature center. Free admission for immersive trails and wildlife spotting.
"Magical vibes here! This place is beautiful, great for families and kids. Extremely lush!"
Bring Bug Spray! :smiling_face_with_sunglasses:
Essential for summer visits to ward off mosquitoes and other biting insects.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Especially for the primitive trails, sturdy footwear is a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Boardwalk Trails
Main loop
A well-maintained boardwalk offers an accessible and easy way to explore the lush fern-filled forest.
Primitive Nature Trails
Off the boardwalk
Venture onto narrower, natural paths for a more immersive experience and a chance to see diverse plant life.
Nature Center Exhibits
Indoor center
Discover local reptiles, learn about the 10 plant communities, and find kid-friendly activities.
Wildlife Spotting
Throughout the preserve
Keep an eye out for iguanas, birds of prey, gopher tortoises, and other fascinating South Florida creatures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Bugs and Heat
Free Admission, Big Nature
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Bug Spray! :smiling_face_with_sunglasses:
Essential for summer visits to ward off mosquitoes and other biting insects.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Especially for the primitive trails, sturdy footwear is a must.
Stay Hydrated :water_wave:
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Some areas have misters.
Explore the Overlook :camera_with_flash:
A great spot to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Bug Spray! :smiling_face_with_sunglasses:
Essential for summer visits to ward off mosquitoes and other biting insects.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Especially for the primitive trails, sturdy footwear is a must.
Stay Hydrated :water_wave:
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Some areas have misters.
Explore the Overlook :camera_with_flash:
A great spot to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Check for Events :calendar:
They host guided walks and nature classes, perfect for families. 
Wheelchair Accessible :wheelchair:
The boardwalk provides good access for those with mobility challenges.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Fern Forest Nature Center's free admission and beautiful, lush natural setting, offering a peaceful escape. The boardwalk is praised for accessibility, while the primitive trails provide a more immersive experience. Some note the potential for bugs and mud in summer, recommending cooler months for a more comfortable visit.
"Great park to do a nature walk. There is a boardwalk that will take you back to the start of the foot trails. You can stay on the boardwalk if you don’t want to do the trails. The longer nature path, takes you out to a cool overlook that’s a good spot to sit and relax. The trails are primitive and narrow in some spots, and opens up wide in others. In the summer time there will probably be a lot of bugs, and it can be muddy. I recommend going in the winter when it’s cold. I try to visit the park once or twice a year. I’ve personally seen iguanas, raccoons, gopher tortoises, and all the typical cool small south Florida wildlife, like bugs and lizards. I’ve seen one or two birds of prey, and a coyote."
Jacques
"What a beautiful place full of beautiful spiders 🤣🤣. I didn’t feel so much humidity in this place, the weather was perfect. Nice trails .
Nice access for people in wheelchairs ♿️. I recommend bring water and a mosquito killer. The nature is beautiful in this place"
Yannis Ortegon
"Only a mile from my home it's a great place to take a relaxing long or short walk amongst the trees even in the middle of Fort Lauderdale."
Ruufus De Leon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fern Forest Nature Center is located at 201 Lyons Rd S, Coconut Creek, FL 33063. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available.
While specific bus routes can vary, checking local Broward County Transit schedules is recommended for public transport options. Many visitors opt for personal vehicles due to the preserve's location.
From Fort Lauderdale, take I-95 North to FL-869 W/SW 10th St, then merge onto FL-869 W. Take exit 49 for Lyons Road and turn right. The center will be on your left.
Yes, there is parking available at the nature center, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! Using the address 201 Lyons Rd S, Coconut Creek, FL 33063 in your GPS or mapping app will guide you directly to the entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Fern Forest Nature Center offers free admission, making it an accessible and budget-friendly nature escape.
The nature center and its trails are typically open daily, but it's always a good idea to check the official Broward Parks website for the most current hours of operation, especially for holidays.
No advance booking is required for general entry. You can visit anytime during operating hours.
While general entry is free, some special programs or classes, like the Nature Tots Class, might have a fee or require pre-registration. Check the park's event calendar.
Yes, the nature center is open on weekends, but expect slightly higher visitor numbers compared to weekdays.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The center features a main boardwalk loop and several primitive, natural trails that wind through diverse habitats.
The main boardwalk loop can be completed in about an hour at a leisurely pace, while the longer nature paths may take longer depending on your speed and how often you stop.
Visitors often spot iguanas, various birds, gopher tortoises, raccoons, lizards, and sometimes even coyotes.
Yes, it's very family-friendly with a nature center exhibit hall, kid-friendly activities, and trails suitable for little ones.
Yes, Fern Forest Nature Center offers picnic areas, making it a great spot for a family outing or a relaxing lunch surrounded by nature.
📸 📸 Photography
The lush fern-covered trails, the boardwalk winding through the forest, and any areas where wildlife is spotted offer great photographic opportunities.
Absolutely! With its diverse plant life, various habitats, and potential for wildlife sightings, it's an excellent location for nature photographers.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer harsh shadows.
While casual photography is welcome, professional photoshoots might require permits or specific arrangements. It's best to inquire with Broward Parks.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm or 18-135mm) is useful for general shots, and a telephoto lens can be beneficial for capturing wildlife from a distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The boardwalk trail is easy for little legs and strollers, while the primitive trails offer a sense of adventure. Remember to pack snacks and bug spray for a comfortable outing. 🚶♀️ Solo Explorers & Couples
The overlook spot is perfect for quiet contemplation or a shared moment of appreciation for nature. 🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers
Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture the lush greenery, intricate textures of ferns, and any wildlife that crosses their path. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
For a more immersive experience, venture onto the primitive nature trails. These unpaved paths take you deeper into the heart of the preserve, offering a chance to truly connect with the natural environment. Be prepared for narrower, sometimes overgrown sections, and uneven terrain. These trails are where you're most likely to feel like you're in a true, untouched forest.
Many visitors recommend exploring both types of trails to get a full appreciation of the preserve's diverse landscapes. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and be mindful of the natural conditions, especially during wetter months.
Wildlife Encounters
Beyond the more commonly seen creatures, you might also encounter raccoons, lizards, and even the occasional coyote. The natural habitats within Fern Forest are crucial for supporting this biodiversity.
While wildlife sightings are more common during cooler parts of the day and in less humid seasons, there's always a chance to spot something interesting. Patience and a keen eye are your best tools for a rewarding wildlife viewing experience.
Family and Educational Fun
The center also offers various nature programming and activities. Keep an eye out for events like the 'Nature Tots Class,' which includes read-alouds and interactive nature-based activities perfect for preschoolers.
The trails themselves are an educational tool, allowing children to discover different plant communities and observe wildlife in their natural habitat. With picnic areas available, families can easily spend a half-day or more exploring, learning, and enjoying the outdoors together. It's a great way to foster a love for nature in young ones.
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