Audubon-Pennington Nature Park
A small, serene urban oasis showcasing diverse native Florida flora and fauna, perfect for a peaceful nature escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for tortoise sightings
Audubon-Pennington Nature Park
Best Time
Best for tortoise sightings
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A small, serene urban oasis showcasing diverse native Florida flora and fauna, perfect for a peaceful nature escape.
"Exquisite small park set amongst the urban sprawl, a nice display of habitat change."
🚗 Limited Parking
Parking can fill up quickly; consider arriving early or on a weekday. :car:
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails are mostly dirt and can be narrow; sturdy footwear is recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Native Plant Trails
Throughout the park
Discover diverse native plants and trees, clearly labeled for an educational stroll through Florida's natural beauty.
Gopher Tortoise Habitats
Sunny areas, especially noon-3 PM
Observe these keystone species and the burrows they create, which support a variety of other wildlife.
Habitat Diversity
North to South ends
Experience the transition from live oak and cabbage palm to swamp cypress habitats in this compact, ecologically rich park.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild Charm
Wildlife Spotting Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Limited Parking
Parking can fill up quickly; consider arriving early or on a weekday. :car:
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails are mostly dirt and can be narrow; sturdy footwear is recommended. :athletic_shoe:
🌿 Educational Signs
Take time to read the signs identifying native plants and trees for a richer experience. :seedling:
💧 No Restrooms
There are no public restrooms available, so plan accordingly before your visit. :noentrysign:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Limited Parking
Parking can fill up quickly; consider arriving early or on a weekday. :car:
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails are mostly dirt and can be narrow; sturdy footwear is recommended. :athletic_shoe:
🌿 Educational Signs
Take time to read the signs identifying native plants and trees for a richer experience. :seedling:
💧 No Restrooms
There are no public restrooms available, so plan accordingly before your visit. :noentrysign:
📸 Wildlife Photography
Bring your camera to capture the diverse birdlife, butterflies, and other small creatures. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Audubon-Pennington Nature Park to be a peaceful, small oasis with educational signage about native plants and wildlife. While appreciated for its natural beauty and quiet atmosphere, some note it can be a bit overgrown and parking is very limited. The lack of restrooms is also a common point of mention.
"It’s small and a little over grown but I do believe they will be doing a clean up soon. Nice place to get away from the craziness and relax. Very little parking though"
Anne Sosnicki
"Audubon-Pennington Nature Park is a little island in the middle of a a neighborhood. The main trail is pretty wide, but just dirt. There are many trees down from the many hurricanes we’ve had over the last few years. There are many side trails, which are pretty narrow through groves of oak trees and vast areas of ferns.  there are many native plants and trees which are labeled on signs.
I saw some muscovy ducks and the vultures were circling me. "
Charles Cavicchi
"Great place to go for a short hike! There's different trails you can take and they are well marked!
Pros:
- Great vegetation and variety of plants to see 🌿
- Possible to see wildlife (butterflies, birds, squirrels etc.)🦋
- Free parking space
- Quiet and relaxing 🌞
Cons:
- Didn't see a bathroom 😕
- Parking lot seems busier than the trails ... 🤔🔐"
Dafne
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Audubon-Pennington Nature Park is located within a neighborhood. While specific public transport options might be limited, driving is the most common way to access it. Be aware that parking is quite limited.
Yes, there is a parking lot, but it's noted as being small and can get busy, sometimes even busier than the trails themselves. Arriving early is advised.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The park is free to enter, offering a great opportunity for a budget-friendly nature escape.
Specific operating hours are not widely published, but it's generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to visit during daylight for safety and to enjoy the natural surroundings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The park features a main trail that is relatively wide and made of dirt. There are also numerous narrower side trails winding through oak groves and fern areas.
Absolutely! Visitors often spot Muscovy ducks, vultures, butterflies, squirrels, and other small creatures. Gopher tortoises are a highlight, especially on sunny afternoons.
Unfortunately, there are no restrooms available within the park. Visitors should plan accordingly before their visit.
Yes, it's considered a great place for a short hike. The park is small, and you can complete a walk in about 10 minutes, but it's worth stopping to observe the details.
The trails are primarily dirt. Some areas might be a bit overgrown, and there are trees down from past hurricanes, adding to the natural, wild feel of the park.
📸 📸 Photography
The park offers great opportunities for nature photography, from the diverse native plants and labeled trees to the various wildlife like birds, butterflies, and gopher tortoises. The transition in habitats also provides unique visual elements.
You can photograph Muscovy ducks, vultures, butterflies, squirrels, and other small animals. Gopher tortoises are a popular subject, especially during sunny afternoons.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage your children to look for wildlife like ducks, butterflies, and squirrels. Spotting the Gopher Tortoises can be a real highlight, especially on a sunny afternoon. Remember that there are no restrooms, so plan your visit accordingly. The limited parking means it's best to go early or on a less busy day to ensure a smooth experience for everyone.
🚶♀️ Nature Walk Enthusiasts
Appreciate the educational aspect with clearly labeled native plants and trees, offering insights into the region's biodiversity. The chance to observe wildlife, from common birds and butterflies to the notable Gopher Tortoises, adds to the appeal. It's an ideal spot for a quiet moment of reflection amidst the urban surroundings, especially if you visit during off-peak hours.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails and Terrain
When planning your visit, it's advisable to wear sturdy, comfortable footwear, as the terrain is primarily natural and can be uneven. The park's size makes it ideal for a short, refreshing walk, but the abundance of labeled native plants and the potential for wildlife sightings encourage visitors to slow down and explore. The transition in vegetation from the north end's live oak and cabbage palm to the south end's swamp cypress showcases the park's ecological diversity within a small area.
Wildlife Encounters and Conservation
The park is particularly known for its population of Gopher Tortoises, a keystone species crucial to the local ecosystem. These fascinating reptiles create extensive burrows that provide shelter for numerous other species, including mammals, reptiles, and insects. The best time to spot them is on a sunny day, typically between noon and 3 PM. Observing these tortoises and understanding their role in the habitat adds a unique conservation perspective to the park experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit