Hogtown Creek Headwaters Nature Park & Nature Center

From former pinelands and majestic, upland mixed forest to shady fern-covered wetlands, this 82-acre park protects a variety of natural habitats. Water slowly seeps from these wetlands to form the beginnings of Hogtown Creek. The half-mile nature trail loop invites you to explore these woodlands at your own pace. For more exercise, check out the fitness loop. Kids will be entertained by the enchanting playground. Grills are available as families and friends will be dining alfresco at our covered picnic area.

Group Visit Information

For large groups of 30 or more, contact Beverly Perry at 352-393-8538 or perrybj@gainesvillefl.gov to fill out a park request form. Please be advised that bounce houses are not allowed in nature parks.

Nature Center Information           

Be sure to make time to visit the Hogtown Creek Headwaters Nature Center. Learn through engaging exhibits about Gainesville’s creeks and watershed, local flora and fauna, and natural and cultural history. Step into the environmental classroom for crafts, coloring, books and rotating nature-based activities. See the schedule of events below for both adult and youth-oriented programs.

Children under 12 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Groups larger than 15 will need to take turns viewing the exhibit due to space limitations.

A Note About Our Creeks

Fossil and shark teeth hunting is prohibited in city parks per City of Gainesville Ordinance Sec. 18-20 (23).

Prohibited activities: Engage in the removal, alteration or destruction of archaeological or cultural resources from any park property and water body except as authorized by the city manager or designee. For purposes of this article "archaeological or cultural resources" means any associated physical artifacts and features below the ground service indicating the past use of a location by people which may yield information on the city's history or prehistory, including but not limited to artifacts, fossils, bones, shell mounds or primitive culture facilities or items. 

The park was purchased with funds from the Florida Communities Trust and with a generous donation from Home Depot.

Location

1500 NW 45th Avenue, Gainesville 32605  View Map

29.696060268494698, -82.34293274360729

1500 NW 45th Avenue , Gainesville 32605

1500 NW 45th Avenue , Gainesville 32605

Hogtown Creek Headwaters Nature Park & Nature Center