Welcome to the Florida Communities Trust Parks Directory

Since 1991, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and Florida Communities Trust have assisted Florida communities by providing grant funds to acquire land for parks and open spaces. As Florida continues to grow, these lands are crucial to protecting the state’s precious natural, cultural and historical resources. Preservation 2000 and Florida Forever funds awarded by the Trust have resulted in a collection of local and regional parks as diverse as Florida’s communities – from beachfront parks like Loggerhead Park Preserve in Melbourne Beach to such urban parks as Tampa’s Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park. Each of these wonderful locations offers a wide range of recreational opportunities while providing Floridians and visitors with the chance to experience nature first-hand.

This directory provides an easy way to find out more about the Florida Communities Trust parks in your community and those you may visit.

Picture of Seven Seas at Newton Park

Park of the Month:

Seven Seas at Newton Park

We are pleased to feature the Town of Fort Myers Beach's Seven Seas at Newton Park as our Park of the Month for February 2012. During the early part of the 20th century, Fort Myers Beach resident and writer Jim Newton befriended some of the most prominent and respected figures of the day, including Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, Harvey Firestone and Charles Lindbergh (who also served as the best man at Jim's wedding to Ellie Forde in 1943). His book "Uncommon Friends," which details these personal relationships, and two of Ellie's published works were written at their home, Seven Seas. Today, Seven Seas at Newton Park serves as a passive park and community gathering space.

THIS MONTH’S EVENTS

01/18/12
     to
02/29/12
Celtic Picnic
Raymond P. Oglesby Environmental Preserve
Every Wednesday from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Featuring Celtic music, food and a Petanque Tournament, as well as dancing and crafts.
01/20/12
     to
03/23/12
Adult Kickball League
Key Largo Community Park
Enjoy adult camaraderie and spirited competition in our seasonal kickball league. This is no children's game. Every Friday our teams will face off for a showdown, with only one team emerging victorious. Afterwards, everyone - winners and losers alike - can hang out to recap, talk smack, and build stronger friendships. We'd love for you to join our extended family! For adults ages 18 and older. Games are on Friday at scheduled times. Cost to participate is $25. For more information, contact Kerry Cosme at 305-453-3422 or kcosme@ymcamiami.org.
02/01/12
     to
02/29/12
Wednesday Farmer's Market
Eau Gallie Square
Every Wednesday from 4 until 8 p.m.
02/01/12
     to
02/29/12
Treasures of the Sea Guided Beach Walk
Seven Seas at Newton Park
Every Wednesday at 9 a.m.
02/01/12
     to
02/29/12
Beginner's Yoga
Seven Seas at Newton Park
Every Tuesday from 5:45 until 6:45 p.m.
02/01/12
     to
02/29/12
Stories Beneath Our Feet (Underground Exhibit)
Mound House
Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.
02/01/12
     to
02/29/12
Plants and People Guided Walking Tour
Mound House
Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.
02/04/12
     to
02/25/12
Saturday Farmer's Market
Eau Gallie Square
Every Saturday from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m.
02/04/12
Naturalist-Led Wagon Tour
Robinson Preserve
Starts at 9 a.m. Roll through Robinson Preserve in a covered wagon! Your naturalist tour guide will explain the preserve¿s history, resident wildlife, fabulous flowers, and describe preserve highlights. One 60-minute trip will be taken during the day. A second tour will be taken at 10:30 a.m. if a minimum of 12 people are interested. A fee of $3.00 per adult and $2.00 per child (includes tax) will be charged. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations will not be taken for this tour. Seats will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Please call 941-742-5757 ext. 1 for more information.
02/05/12
Guided Nature Walk
Amberjack Environmental Park
Starts at 9 a.m.
02/08/12
Walk-n-Talk Guided Tour
Peace River Park
Starts at 9 a.m. Sturdy walking shoes, sunscreen and water are recommended. Topics of discussion will include plant identification, natives vs. exotics, Peace River, wetlands and flooding. Any questions feel free to call Olivia Minshew at 863-773-9193.
02/08/12
Guided Tour
Peace River Park
Starts at 9 a.m. The tour is open to the public and will be free of charge. Sturdy walking shoes, sunscreen and water are recommended. Topics of discussion will include plant identification, natives vs. exotics, Peace River, wetlands and flooding. Any questions feel free to call Olivia Minshew at 863-773-9193.
02/10/12
Morning Silence Stroll
Robinson Preserve
From 8 until 10 a.m. Join NRD naturalist Melissa for a zen-filled hike through the coastal mangrove system. We will arrive at our destination, the boardwalk on Perico Bayou, by truck and then take time to enjoy the silence of nature and reflect upon the sounds of the wild. To completely relax, participants will make the hike without using any words during the duration of the trip. Prepare to walk barefoot on the boardwalk during this new de-stressing program! Afterwards, take a ride out to view Robinson Preserve's resident bald eagles. Program suitable for participants age 13 and older. Reservations are required. Please call 941-742-5757 ext. 8.
02/11/12
Discovering Wildlife with Your Child
Brooker Creek Preserve
Who lives in that skin? What is the difference between a carnivore and an herbivore? Whose tracks are those? Stop by our classroom anytime between noon and 3:00 pm to participate in a variety of self-guided nature games and activities. A Brooker Creek Education Center volunteer will be available to answer your questions.
02/11/12
Winter Wonders Master Gardener Tour
Riverview Pointe Preserve
From 9 until 11 a.m. Join Master Gardener Mike for a leisurely nature walk through DeSoto National Memorial and Riverview Pointe Preserve. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about how Florida's native plants survive in the cooler winter weather. Program suitable for all ages. Please call the Master Gardener Office for reservations at 941-722-4524.
02/11/12
Guided Nature Walk
Tippecanoe II Mitigation Area
Starts at 9 a.m.
02/11/12
Annual Preserve Clean-Up
Lakeside Sand Pine Preserve
From 8:30 a.m. until noon. Participants should wear closed shoes or work boots and clothes you don't mind getting dirty. Please bring gloves, hats and sunscreen. The City of Oakland Park will provide water and tools. For more information please call Charles Livio, City Horticulturist at 954-630-4511
02/11/12
Volunteer Event - Sea Oat Planting
Loggerhead Park Preserve
From 8 until 11 a.m. More than 100 Sea Oats purchased through a program sponsored by Brevard County Natural Resources Management Office and Keep Brevard Beautiful, Inc. will be provided for planting. Volunteers will also be removing invasive vegetation and planting native plants at LPP. Supplies and refreshments will be provided so just bring your enthusiasm! Please meet at LPP in Melbourne Beach to help out. For more information, call Curtis Byrd at (321) 724-9916.
02/12/12
Guided Nature Walk
Oyster Creek Regional Park
Starts at 9 a.m.
02/13/12
Wild FL 101: Finding Romance in Nature
Robinson Preserve
From 6 until 8 p.m. Back by popular demand is our fabulous celebration of love in nature! Celebrate Valentine's Day with Master Naturalist Melissa and chefs Brian and Aedan early by taking your mate on a wild date. Come alone or bring someone special (mom, dad, significant other, or friend) to learn about nature's romantic side! As we hike to enjoy a spectacular sunset from Robinson Preserve's observation tower, we'll learn about what really happens with the birds and the bees. Love is in the air as we discuss the courting strategies of the preserve's resident wildlife. Afterwards, we'll relax and whip up a delicious desert over a campfire. Program suitable for ages 16 and up. Reservations are required. Please call 941-748-4501 ext. 4605.
02/14/12
Valentine's Day Vow Renewal Ceremony
Bayshore Live Oak Park
Starts at 6 p.m.
02/14/12
Valentine's Day Nature Hike
Curry Creek Preserve
From 9 until 11 a.m. Sarasota County Environmental Specialist, Jeff Weber, will introduce participants to a wide variety of plants, animals and habitats as they take a leisurely stroll along 1.5 miles of trails that wind through the preserve. Participants should wear long pants, comfortable walking shoes, and bring a light jacket, a hat, sun screen, insect repellent, drinking water, binoculars, camera and hand lens (optional). All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.
02/15/12
Take a Walk on the East Side
Manasota Scrub Preserve
From 9 until 11 a.m. Plants, animals? Learn why it¿s named Manasota Scrub Preserve. Enjoy a leisurely walk on the east side of the preserve exploring the pine and scrubby flatwoods at Manasota Scrub Preserve. Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a light jacket, a hat, sun screen, insect repellent, drinking water, binoculars (optional), camera and hand lens (optional). All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.
02/17/12
Chick Flick Night at the Gardens
Pinecrest Gardens
Come out to Pinecrest Gardens for an evening of lounge music, movies and refreshments. This month's chick flick is "The Thomas Crown Affair." Take a stroll through the Gardens or enjoy the Gallery prior to the movie...or just enjoy a glass of wine. Cost is $5 per person. The piano lounge begins at 6:30, followed by the movie at 8.
02/18/12
     to
02/19/12
30th Annual Cortez Village Commercial Seafood Festival
Florida Maritime Museum at Cortez
From 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. on both days. There will be over 50 craft vendors along with some 30 food vendors and music all day on two separate stages. The Museum also offers guided tours. There is free parking for over 500 cars. Admission is $3.00 per person. Rides and activities for children are available.
02/18/12
Jazz at Pinecrest Gardens
Pinecrest Gardens
What happens when Saturday nights come alive with the percussive beat of Afro-Latin Jazz, the sensual sounds of Bossa Nova, or the swing and swag of George Gershwin. It's Jazz Under the Stars at Pinecrest Gardens, an eight concert series that promise the best of the best from Straight Ahead to Salsa. Hot nights, cool jazz, great times! This month's concert features the music of George Gershwin and Cole Porter performed by the Harvey Nevins Orchestra. The gates open at 6:30 p.m. and the show begins at 8:00.
02/18/12
Discover Native Plants and Wildflowers
Manasota Scrub Preserve
From 9 until 11 a.m. Sarasota County Volunteer guide and Florida Native Plant Society member, Jack Lyons, will lead participants through the Preserve¿s pine flatwoods and all the flowers and fruits found within. Along the way, Jack will identify plant species, share his knowledge of botany, and tell the lore of the plants as well. Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a light jacket, a hat, sun screen, insect repellent, drinking water, binoculars (optional), camera and hand lens (optional). All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.
02/18/12
Brooker Creek Historical Hike
Brooker Creek Preserve
From 9:00 until 10:30 a.m. Join us on a special hike lead by the Brooker Creek hike guides to learn about the unique and exciting history of the preserve and surrounding area. Wear closed-toe shoes, bring water and a hat. Best for ages 6 and up.
02/18/12
Naturalist-Led Wagon Tour
Robinson Preserve
Starts at 9 a.m. Roll through Robinson Preserve in a covered wagon! Your naturalist tour guide will explain the preserve's history, resident wildlife, fabulous flowers, and describe preserve highlights. One 60-minute trip will be taken during the day. A second tour will be taken at 10:30 a.m. if a minimum of 12 people are interested. A fee of $3.00 per adult and $2.00 per child (includes tax) will be charged. Program suitable for all ages. Seats will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
02/19/12
Guided Nature Walk
Tippecanoe II Mitigation Area
Starts at 9 a.m.
02/19/12
Master Gardener Tour
Robinson Preserve
From 9 until 11 a.m. Each month, the Master Gardeners host a fabulous nature tour in the salt marshes at Robinson Preserve. Learn more about Florida's native plants with Master Gardener Sam on a relaxing stroll through this beautiful coastal property. Program suitable for all ages. Please call the Master Gardener Office for reservations at 941-722-4524.
02/21/12
Guided Bird Walk
Cedar Point Environmental Park
Starts at 8 a.m.
02/22/12
Winter Bird Walk
Curry Creek Preserve
From 9 until 11 a.m. Join Sarasota County volunteers and Audubon Society members Tom and Connie Plaskett on a guided birding nature walk through oak hammocks and tidal marsh areas found on Curry Creek Preserve. Participants should wear long pants, comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket, sunscreen and a hat, and bring insect repellent, drinking water, binoculars (optional), camera and hand lens (optional). All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.
02/22/12
Horticulture Lecture Series: Basic Landscape Design
Pinecrest Gardens
Starts at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free. To register, call Pinecrest Gardens at 305-669-6990.
02/23/12
Book Time at Brooker Creek
Brooker Creek Preserve
From 10:30 until 11:15 a.m. Bring your pre-schooler to this program designed to connect them to the wonders of the natural world. In addition to hearing a great story, your child will participate in a craft, game or other hands-on activity related to the story that is read. This activity is recommended for ages 3 to 5. Please register online so the Book Time volunteer will know how many arts-and-crafts items to prepare.
02/24/12
     to
02/25/12
Florida Frontier Days Festival
Bayshore Live Oak Park
From 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. both days. The Florida Frontier Days Festival celebrates Florida's rich pioneer days with such activities as pioneer trades, trailblazing entertainment, games, foods, hands-on events and more.
02/24/12
Sixth Annual Soiree in the Garden
Pinecrest Gardens
Featuring 2012 Grammy Nominee Stephen Marley. Open bar and dinner starts at 7:00 p.m., with the concert start at 9:30 p.m. Tickets for the open bar, dinner, dessert bar, silent auction and the concert are $125 per person; tickets are $40 per person for the concert only. All proceeds benefit Pinecrest Gardens.
02/24/12
Plant and Wildlife Identification Walk
Pocono Trail Preserve
From 9 until 11 a.m. Join Sarasota County Environmental Specialist Jeff Weber as he leads participants on a nature hike from upland habitats to the shores of Shakett Creek. Along the way, participants will see a variety of plant and animal species including live oaks, eastern red cedars, cabbage palms, bracken ferns, osprey, wading birds and other wildlife common to the area. Participants should wear long pants, comfortable walking shoes, and bring a light jacket, a hat, sun screen, insect repellent, drinking water, binoculars, camera and hand lens (optional). All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.
02/25/12
Guided Nature Walk
Tippecanoe Environmental Park
Starts at 9 a.m.
02/25/12
The Big Gig: Theater Day
Pinecrest Gardens
From 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Theater Day brings young "Broadway" hopefuls together to learn the disciplines of auditioning and performing in musicals working with one of the best youth theater companies in Miami, Miami Children's Theater. The morning session will be an introduction to Musical Theater with workshops in dance, voice and monologue. Voice will deal with topics like choosing good audition songs, acting a song and rehearsal. Dance will be learning a 32 bar dance audition combination, and monologue will teach how to select appropriate audition material, and techniques of winning over the judges. The afternoon is devoted to participants working in assigned teams, rehearsals, and all leading to final performances in Banyan Bowl. Free participation to all students with teacher approved application.
02/25/12
Brooker Creek Guided Hike
Brooker Creek Preserve
From 9:00 until 10:30 a.m. Take a walk through time each Saturday morning on a guided hike along the Education Center Trail. Join us for this 0.75-mile walk as we look at how the land has changed over time and discuss the ecological footprints left by those changes. Sturdy closed-toe shoes are a must, and water and a hat are recommended. Pre-registration is required by noon on the Friday before the hike.
02/25/12
Volunteer Workday: Oyster Baggers
Robinson Preserve
From 1 until 4 p.m. Caring for the preserves is more than removing exotics and clearing trails. This month, we have a brand new volunteer opportunity to help at Robinson Preserve. Help create "oyster bags" to shore up the shoreline and prevent the currents from tearing up the trail. Workday times will be available for two days. Program suitable for all ages. Please call to let us know that you would like to attend. Call 941-748-4501 ext. 4613.
02/25/12
10th Annual Butterfly Festival
Sabal Pines Park
From 1:00 until 8:30 p.m. Featuring children's rides and games, a Business Expo, butterfly kite flying, fireworks, food and beverages, and live music by Rockin' the Paradise, the Blues Brothers Soul Band and Replay. For more details, call the Special Events Hotline at 954-545-6620 or logon to www.coconutcreek.net/events.
02/26/12
Guided Nature Walk
Tippecanoe II Mitigation Area
Starts at 9 a.m.
02/26/12
Concert with the Greater Miami Symphonic Band
Pinecrest Gardens
Starts at 3:30 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for students.
02/27/12
Volunteer Workday: Oyster Baggers
Robinson Preserve
From 1 until 4 p.m. Day two of the oyster bag extravaganza. Come on out and help protect the trails at Robinson Preserve by bagging up oyster shells for use in restoration and trail enhancement. Program suitable for all ages. Please call to let us know that you would like to attend. Call 941-748-4501 ext. 4613.
02/29/12
Life After Fire
Riverview Pointe Preserve
From 2 until 4 p.m. It's been one year since a prescribed fire was used at Riverview Pointe Preserve. Come see the changes and learn how the land heals itself with scientist Aedan. Learn how Rangers use mapping and the science of fire to help manage the land in this Citizen Science Academy program. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations are required! Please call 941-748-4501 ext. 4616.

Florida Communities Trust is not responsible for events that are rescheduled or canceled at Florida Communities Trust-funded parks.