Black Lake Preserve
Know Before You Go
Black Lake Preserve, one of Alachua County’s newest preserves, is now open and operational!
As we transition from summer into fall and winter, visitors may notice changes in weather, trail conditions, and wildlife activity throughout our preserves. Cooler temperatures can make outdoor exploration more enjoyable, but it's still important to plan ahead and be prepared for changing conditions.
Check the weather: Florida weather can change quickly, so dress appropriately and bring water, even during cooler months.
Dress for the outdoors: Wear comfortable, sturdy footwear and consider layers for cooler mornings and evenings.
Be aware of wildlife: Seasonal changes may affect wildlife activity. Observe animals from a safe distance and never feed them.
Every season offers something new to discover! We encourage you to explore our preserves, enjoy the changing landscape, and help protect these special natural areas for everyone to enjoy.
Amenities
Activities
Black Lake Preserve
Preserve Hours
7:00 AM to 6:00 PM (October–March)
7:00 AM to 8:00 PM (April–September)
Preserve Brochure
About Black Lake Preserve
Black Lake Preserve was purchased in 2020 by Alachua County through the Alachua County Forever Program using Wild Spaces Public Places surtax funds. The 287-acre preserve is located just west of Melrose and south of Lake Santa Fe and includes 9 distinct natural communities.
About 32 acres are included in the Santa Fe River system Outstanding Florida Waters designation, and the preserve borders approximately 9,500 feet of wetlands associated with the south side of Lake Santa Fe and Black Lake.
The preserve was purchased to protect, preserve, and enhance the unique natural and cultural resources found on the property and to provide an enjoyable and educational recreational experience. Visitors can hike or bike over 3 miles of trails, including a short, fully paved trail to a pond overlook leading from the main trailhead parking area.
Click here to view the Opening Ceremony of Black Lake Preserve
Preserve Rules
- Trails are open from 7 AM to 6 PM October–March, and 7 AM to 8 PM April–September, 365 days a year. Visitors on the preserve outside these hours are trespassing.
- Pack out what you pack in.
- No littering or dumping.
- Trails are for pedestrian and bicyclist use only. Cyclists must yield to hikers. Motorized vehicle use is prohibited.
- Preserve visitors may not establish new trails without permission from Alachua County Environmental Protection Department (EPD) staff.
- Help prevent erosion by staying on the trails. Visitors and their pets are not allowed to enter wetlands and ponds.
- Collecting or disturbing plants, animals, artifacts, or fossils is prohibited.
- No taking, harassing, or killing of wildlife without written permission from Alachua County EPD.
- Leashed dogs are allowed on trails provided owners pick up after them.
- Igniting fires on the preserve is prohibited.
- Camping on the preserve is prohibited.
- Areas of the preserve may be monitored by remote cameras.
Advice for the Trails
- Certain natural conditions, plants, or animals encountered on County lands may be dangerous. Visitors are responsible for exercising reasonable caution and care in threatening situations or areas.
- Stay alert, stay on the established trails, and stay safe.
- During wet weather, trails may be under water or seasonally flooded.
- Be prepared for rough or soft trails. Some trails may be utilized for firebreaks and are periodically harrowed.
- For your comfort and safety, wear sunscreen and a hat, use insect repellent, and carry water and a trail map.
Trail Description
Black Lake Preserve offers hikers and bikers over 3 miles of trails.
- West Trail: An easy loop, just under 1 mile long and blazed yellow. The primary natural community you will encounter is mesic flatwoods.
- Citrus Trail: Blazed orange, this flat, easy 1-mile-long trail goes through a variety of ecosystems, including mesic flatwoods, successional hardwoods, and an old citrus grove.
- Overlook Trail: A fully paved path 0.1 miles long that ends at a pond overlook.
- Pineland Trail: Blazed green, this trail is just under 1 mile long. It is an easy, relatively flat trail offering views of mesic flatwoods and a basin swamp.
- Shortcut Trail: Cuts the Pineland Trail in half for a shorter distance.
Important Notes
- Pets are allowed only on Leash.
- No access to Black Lake or Lake Santa Fe from the preserve.
- No drinking water is available at the preserve.
- No restrooms or picnic facilities are available on the preserve.
- Trail maps are available at the preserve, or you can request a brochure by email using the link on our contact page. Brochures are available in alternate format on request.
