Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive

The Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive is the most spectacular and unique environmental sanctuary in all of Central Florida. The Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive is an 11 mile one-way drive that is managed by the St. Johns Water Management District. The drive has a 10mph speed limit.

The bird list continues to grow and includes 362 species. Other wildlife routinely seen include numerous American alligators, turtles, river otters, bobcats and coyotes.

Open Fri.-Sun. from sunrise to 1 hr before sunset. FREE OF CHARGE.

Recreational activities
The Lake Apopka Loop Trail and two blazed hiking trails area available for hiking, bicycling, horseback riding and wildlife viewing.
Horses are not permitted at the Green Mountain and Magnolia Park trailheads (these are county parks). Horses are welcome to enter at the North Shore and Clay Island trailheads.
Motorized vehicle access is available only on the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive and only on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and federal holidays.
Motorboat, canoe and kayaking launching is available at the McDonald Canal Boat Ramp.
Catch-and-release fishing and seasonal waterfowl hunting are available by permit at the West Marsh Canoe and Kayak Launch. Paddle craft only, no gas motors allowed.