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Relax In Real Florida Colt Creek State Park features more than 5,000 acres of native Central Florida habitat and endless opportunities to immerse yourself in the Real Florida. // B Y K A R I N F A B R Y- C U S H E N B E R Y
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Photo courtesy of Florida State Parks
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olt Creek’s rich history dates back to 1940 when brothers Stanley Chick Overstreet and Charlie Mack purchased the property and used the land for beef cattle production and for growing and harvesting pine trees. By the 1990s, the brothers began a lime rock mining operation, and the lakes created by the operation ultimately provided fresh habitats for a variety of new species to live and thrive. “On May 31, 2006, the 5,067acre parcel of land was purchased from the Overstreet family to become Florida’s 160th state park,” says Alexandra Kuchta, press secretary for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. “This acquisition was a joint purchase between the Southwest Florida Water Management District, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the Polk County Natural Resources division, with the Florida Park Service taking the role as the lead managing agency. “The land was primarily purchased for the important role it plays within the floodplain of the Green Swamp region since the water that flows off the property eventually makes its way to four of Florida’s major rivers: Withlacoochee, Hillsborough, Peace and Ocklawaha,” she adds. The beautiful park features a variety of habitats, including lakes, creeks, pine flatwoods, cypress domes and open areas,
and visitors to Colt Creek may see white-tailed deer, American alligators, otters, bobcats, bald eagles and more, including such threatened species as the gopher tortoise and the Sherman’s fox squirrel. “Shortly after sunrise and shortly before sunset are the best times to view wildlife,” says Park Manager Scott Duncan. In 2007 the park was also designated on the Great Florida Birding Trail by the Lake Region Audubon Society, and it’s plain to see why when you notice the abundance of birds and butterfly species that call the park home. “During the day, visitors can enjoy more than 12 miles of multi-use trails that tread through the pine flatwoods, natural creeks and wetlands,” says Alexandra. “These trails can be explored by foot, bike or even horseback. Park lakes afford the perfect place for anglers to cast their line lake side, or from the 75-foot accessible dock on Mac Lake.” Canoes and kayaks are available for rent at the ranger station, and when it’s time to stop
and enjoy lunch, there are four picnic pavilions throughout the park. “Although the unmatched views and endless recreational opportunities make Colt Creek the perfect place for a day trip, visitors can also stay overnight on the campgrounds,” says Alexandra. “Colt Creek State Park has 27 full-facility campsites and six tent-only sites nestled in the pine flatwoods. Camping at the main grounds on a leveled concrete pad includes an accessible bathhouse and the perfect spot for recreational vehicles.” If you’re more into roughing it, two primitive campsites are available 2 miles into the flatwoods. The sites have no running water, restrooms or electricity, and they are only accessible by foot, bike or horseback. Colt Creek State Park also offers a selection of interpretive programs, including guided hikes and tram tours, fishing clinics and wildlife programs. “Interpretive programs are a great way to learn about the park or be introduced to new activities,” Duncan says. “Park rangers are always happy to answer your questions.” Colt Creek State Park // 16000 Florida-471, Lakeland // floridastateparks.org // (863) 815-6761
