Local Directory — The Villages, Ocala & Central Florida
Restaurants, bars, venues, and more across the region
Crooked River Preserve
Clermont63-acre nature preserve between Lake Louisa and the Palatlakaha River with a 1.7-mile loop through forested wetlands, sinkholes, and cypress-lined riverbank. Free, with canoe access and clean restrooms at the trailhead.
Discovery Gardens
TavaresFree 3.5-acre botanical garden at the UF/IFAS Lake County Extension Center featuring 28 themed garden areas with over 700 plant species showcasing Florida-native and Florida-friendly gardening.
Florida Scrub-Jay Trail
ClermontFree nature preserve in Clermont showcasing over 135 bird species including Florida's only endemic species, the Florida Scrub-Jay, plus beautiful gardens and easy hiking trails through sandhill and wetland habitats.
Palm Island Park
Mount DoraEight-acre nature preserve on Lake Dora with a winding boardwalk through old-growth oaks, cabbage palms, and cypress. Watch for wading birds, turtles, and gators along the water's edge. Free, open sunrise to sunset.