Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

Boulware Springs Water Works is a renowned historic landmark. Constructed in 1895 and designed by Len A. Brackett, this waterworks facility was built to provide the city with clean and potable water. The rustic-style structure made of local limestone added grandeur to the city's landscape. After continued disuse and neglect, it was restored in 2014-15 with aid from the Alachua County government to its former beauty and serves as a reminder of bygone days.

As well as picnic facilities, there is an area to park and unload horses to ride along the state trail at Bolware Springs Park.

Sweetwater Wetlands Park in Alachua County provides visitors with a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of wetlands and observe wildlife in action. This park is renowned for its array of plants and animals, including rare species of birds, turtles, dragonflies, frogs, and other aquatic life. From the observation tower, you can take in panoramic views of the wetlands and spot various species from all over the world. It also offers plenty of activities for children and families.

Sweetwater Preserve is a unique conservation area spanning over 6,800 acres of land, the preserve includes of multiple habitats including pine flatwoods, cypress swamps, sinkholes and sandhills. It is home to an abundance of wildlife species like wild turkeys, sandhill cranes, and owls that benefit from the diversity of habitats found here. Sweetwater Preserve also features trails for exploration and can be used for fishing, hiking, nature viewing and camping.

Prairie Creek Preserve is a beautiful and diverse swath of land, which covers more than 8,000 acres and is home to a variety of habitats ranging from cypress swamps to wet prairies and mesic flats. Among the many wildlife that call this area home are alligators, white-tailed deer, bald eagles, and threatened species like the gopher tortoise. It offers visitors plenty for exploration with trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Fishing is also allowed within certain parts.

Morningside Nature Center occupies a 416-acre park. Along with the farm and nature centre, Morningside Nature Center's hiking trails explore sandhill ecosystems, pine Flatwoods, bayhead swamps, and cypress domes.