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NATURE’S CALL Put down the remote, shut off your cellphone, and spend a day outdoors. STORY: JAMES COMBS
Slither your way to an exhibit and learn about native Florida snakes. Enjoy a stroke of luck as you kayak beautiful Lake Louisa. Let your heart flutter during a butterfly hike. Nature Fest will give nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to familiarize themselves with Lake Louisa State Park’s natural beauty and local wildlife. Organized by Friends of Lake Louisa State Park, the May 17 event is a wonderful way to see Florida unspoiled by theme parks and other tourist attractions. “There are no long lines here,” says Christy Conk, event manager and president of Friends of Lake Louisa State Park. “This is a unique event. One couple flew all the way from England just to attend Nature Fest. And many
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campers come to Lake Louisa State Park in May just to be here for this event.”
In tune with nature Lake Louisa State Park has long been known for serene beauty and abundant wildlife. Visitors come to the 4,500-acre park to fish in one of six lakes, or stay overnight in the 60-site campground. Hikers enjoy 25 miles of walking trails through rolling hills of bald cypress, saw palmettos, and moss-draped oak trees along the shores of Lake Louisa. Wildlife commonly seen includes deer, osprey, red-shouldered hawks, eagles, gopher tortoises, and gray squirrels. During Nature Fest, visitors can participate in guided hikes and see the park up close and personal. A rangerled hike will educate guests about park wildlife and plant life, while those who
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opt for a birding hike will learn how to use binoculars to locate various species of birds. In addition, a professional photographer will lead a hike and give pointers about the best ways to photograph nature. And what would spring be without a butterfly hike? Rangers will also lead a wheelchairaccessible tram tour through the park, as well as kayak and paddleboard tours on Lake Louisa. Swamp Girls Adventures will make a special appearance to educate festival-goers on Florida wildlife, such as skunks, armadillos, and tortoises. Representatives from Apopka-based Avian Reconditioning Center will talk about birds of prey. Visitors can even have their photograph taken with Andy the Armadillo, famous mascot of Texas Roadhouse.
