Lake Kissimmee State Park near Lake Wales has 12 distinct natural communities including floodplain marshes, flatwoods and shady hammocks, which hold more than 30 listed species of flora and fauna. The park is home to butterfly orchids, sawgrass, fetterbush, gallberry and expansive, colorful fields of lotus and pickerelweed.
Hiking at Lake Kissimmee State Park
The State Park offers 13-miles of hiking trails and 6-miles of of equestrian trails which showcase white-tailed deer, bobcat, turkey, Sherman’s fox squirrel and grey fox. You may take your pick from a half-mile, self-guided nature trail, two loop trails, and a spur trail out to the lake.
Birding Hot Spot
The State Park also hosts more than 200-species of birds, making it one of the best birding areas in Central Florida. Scrub-jay, American bald eagle, snail kite, sandhill crane and the crested caracara are some of the most popular resident bird species found in the park.
Kayak the Buster Island Paddling Trail
Rent a kayak or canoe from Lake Kissimmee State Park’s marina’s camp store (open November – April) and tour the scenic 10 mile Buster Island Paddling Trail. Along the state designated paddling trail, visitors can view incredible birds, alligators and other wildlife inhabiting the area. Visitors can also fish along the Island’s banks.
RV and Tent Camping
The State Park has 54 full-facility campsites, as well as a primitive camping facility. The youth camping area can accommodate up to 50 people. The dark skies make stargazing a popular nighttime activity for campers.
