Hidden Waters Preserve
Discover Florida's surprising hills and a magical spring-fed creek at Hidden Waters Preserve. Explore unique terrain and spot local wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more wildlife
Hidden Waters Preserve
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Florida's surprising hills and a magical spring-fed creek at Hidden Waters Preserve. Explore unique terrain and spot local wildlife.
"A beautiful little spot! Great for hikers who like more options then just going from point A to point B."
🚫 No Dogs Allowed!
A large sign at the entrance clearly states NO PETS. Leave your furry friends at home.
🥾 Prepare for Hills
This preserve offers unique elevation changes for Florida. Be ready for inclines, especially on the sinkhole trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Flowing Spring and Creek
Various trails
Discover the magic of a spring-fed creek winding through the preserve, offering a refreshing natural soundtrack.
The Sinkhole Trail
Designated trail
Experience unique Florida topography with a trail leading to a sinkhole, featuring steep climbs and descents.
Gopher Tortoise Sightings
Throughout the preserve
Keep an eye out for gopher tortoises, a common sight in the preserve, adding a touch of Florida wildlife to your hike.
Lake Alfred Views
Gopher Trail and Ravine Trail
Enjoy scenic views of Lake Alfred along designated trails, offering a peaceful waterside experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Hills and Water Features
Know the Pet Policy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚫 No Dogs Allowed!
A large sign at the entrance clearly states NO PETS. Leave your furry friends at home.
🥾 Prepare for Hills
This preserve offers unique elevation changes for Florida. Be ready for inclines, especially on the sinkhole trail.
🦟 Bring Bug Spray
Florida's natural beauty comes with bugs. Protect yourself, especially if you plan to linger by the creek.
🗺️ Sign In & Out
For your safety, sign in and out at the trailheads. It helps authorities track visitors if needed.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚫 No Dogs Allowed!
A large sign at the entrance clearly states NO PETS. Leave your furry friends at home.
🥾 Prepare for Hills
This preserve offers unique elevation changes for Florida. Be ready for inclines, especially on the sinkhole trail.
🦟 Bring Bug Spray
Florida's natural beauty comes with bugs. Protect yourself, especially if you plan to linger by the creek.
🗺️ Sign In & Out
For your safety, sign in and out at the trailheads. It helps authorities track visitors if needed.
💧 Explore the Creek
The spring-fed creek is a highlight! Turn up the sound and enjoy its natural beauty.
🐢 Spot Gopher Tortoises
These fascinating creatures are often seen here. Be respectful and give them space.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Hidden Waters Preserve for its unique hilly terrain and beautiful spring-fed creek, offering a refreshing natural escape. While some trails can be strenuous, the diverse paths and wildlife sightings, like gopher tortoises, make it a worthwhile destination. However, the strict no-pets policy and lack of restrooms are noted drawbacks.
"This was number 6 of the 7 Lake County Water Authority Preserves that we have been to. Each has their own special gift, but this one gave us 2 hidden water gems: Lake Alfred and the stream in the Ravine. I have uploaded a photo of the trail map that I think highlights these features if you are short for time.
No restroom facilities here.
There are 2 parking lots. We parked at the one on Country Club Road. We walked farther than the Gopher trail and Ravine trail , but these two trails lead to the lake and back, so at least do those. Do be sure to sign in and out for your own safety."
Frances Sanderson
"Really great place to walk. Hidden Waters Preserve is near Crooked Lake. I've included a map in my photos. There are several trails to choose. Some are quite strenous for those not in shape. There are some hills to climb, beautiful scenery, a creek running throughout, several bridges, cacti, wild flowers. We saw 2 gopher tortoises fighting for territory right in the middle of our path. They decided to call it a draw and went into the brush as friends. We chose the shorter route and plan to go back for the longer route another day. Highly recommend!"
Rachel Morgan
"This park is NOT dog friendly! I don't know why it pops up on a dog friendly hike search but it is absolutely not dog friendly. There's a big huge sign on the gate when you pull in that says no pets. How ridiculous is that! I moved to Mount Dora thinking we were going to have all these outdoor activities to do.. well, it's ust a lot of concrete with trees to decorate it."
Anita D
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hidden Waters Preserve has two parking lots. One is located on Country Club Road. It's recommended to check a map before you go, as there are several interconnected trails to explore.
Yes, there are two parking lots available for visitors. The lot on Country Club Road is a common starting point for many hikers.
For those looking for elevation gain, the sinkhole trail offers steep climbs and descents. The preserve in general has more varied terrain than typical flat Florida trails.
While there isn't a specific app mentioned, having a downloaded trail map or using a GPS-enabled device can be helpful due to the interconnected nature of the paths.
Information regarding public transport access is limited. It's generally recommended to travel by personal vehicle to reach the preserve.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Hidden Waters Preserve is typically free. It's a public preserve managed by the Lake County Water Authority.
Specific operating hours are not always clearly posted online, but it's generally understood to be open during daylight hours for visitors to enjoy.
There is no entrance fee to access Hidden Waters Preserve. Enjoy the natural beauty without any admission cost.
The most significant restriction is that pets are strictly prohibited. Ensure you comply with this rule before visiting.
No booking or time slot reservations are required for general visits to Hidden Waters Preserve.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Expect a variety of terrain, including hills, inclines, and some steeper sections, especially on the sinkhole trail. There are also flatter areas and the creek beds.
No, there are no restroom facilities available at Hidden Waters Preserve. Plan accordingly before your visit.
You might see gopher tortoises, squirrels, frogs, and various birds. The preserve is a haven for local Florida wildlife.
Absolutely! The flowing creek, unique terrain, and wildlife offer excellent opportunities for nature photography.
While there are trails, some reviews suggest they can be interconnected, offering exploration. It's wise to have a map or be prepared for some off-the-beaten-path discovery.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The spring-fed creek and any small waterfalls are picturesque. The unique sinkhole terrain also offers dramatic photo opportunities. 
Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour lighting, enhancing the natural scenery. Early mornings can also be good for soft light and fewer people.
Capture the movement of the flowing water, the textures of the forest floor, and any wildlife you encounter, like the gopher tortoises.
A versatile lens for landscapes and wildlife, along with a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions near the creek, would be beneficial.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's best to check with the Lake County Water Authority or local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The varied terrain, including gentle inclines, makes it suitable for active kids, though parents should be mindful of the steeper sections on the sinkhole trail. While there are no restrooms, the preserve offers a chance for kids to explore and discover wildlife like gopher tortoises and squirrels.
🚶♀️ Hikers Seeking a Challenge
The interconnected trail system allows for longer, more challenging routes, and the ability to explore different paths each visit. Be prepared for uneven surfaces and potentially muddy conditions, especially after rain. Signing in and out is recommended for safety, especially when venturing on more strenuous or less-traveled paths.
📸 Nature Photographers
+1 The unique sinkhole terrain provides dramatic landscapes, and the lush vegetation offers rich textures and colors. Keep your lens ready for wildlife encounters, particularly the gopher tortoises, which are a signature of the preserve.
The golden hour light in the late afternoon can cast a magical glow over the preserve, enhancing the natural beauty. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails and Terrain
The preserve features a network of interconnected paths, allowing for exploration and varied hiking routes. This makes it ideal for those who enjoy discovering different routes rather than a simple out-and-back. The terrain varies from easy walking paths to more challenging climbs, ensuring there's something for different fitness levels.
Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as some sections can be uneven or muddy, especially after rain. The presence of hills means you'll get a more comprehensive workout than you might expect in this region.
Discovering the 'Hidden Waters'
+1 This creek is not just for aesthetics; it's a vibrant part of the ecosystem, and children, in particular, find it incredibly engaging for play. Beyond the creek, the preserve also offers views of Lake Alfred, accessible via trails like the Gopher Trail and Ravine Trail.
Visiting after rainfall can enhance the experience, as the creek and springs will be at their most vibrant. The interplay of water, sunlight filtering through the trees, and the lush vegetation creates a picturesque environment perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Wildlife Encounters
Beyond the tortoises, keep an eye out for other inhabitants of the preserve. Squirrels are abundant, darting through the trees, and you might also spot various birds and even frogs near the creek.
While the preserve is rich in wildlife, it's crucial to remember that it is a natural habitat. Visitors should practice responsible wildlife viewing, maintaining a safe distance and refraining from feeding or interacting with the animals. This ensures the well-being of the wildlife and preserves the natural integrity of the preserve.
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