Sawgrass Lake Park

When you first arrive at Sawgrass Lake Park, there is a picnic area along a narrow body of water backed by woods.  Herons and egrets wade in the shallow water looking for lunch.  Wood ibises probe the muddy bottom for prey.  Energetic common gallinules swim to and fro showing off their bright red beaks and handsome white and black feather patterns. Swamp maples turn red in the winter, altogether making a beautiful, peaceful backdrop to any picnic.

The boardwalk begins with a bridge across the water and enters a swampy, wooded habitat full of trees, vines, and ferns. The dappled shade is pleasant on the way to the overlook tower on Sawgrass Lake itself. The tower has two stories from which you can view the whole small lake. The boardwalk branches toward the highland hammock habitat.  Here the ground is dry, the path is sandy, and the vegetation different.

There is a pavilion with restrooms and a small wildlife display near the beginning of the trail. Alligators and armadillos live here. Bring your binoculars!

7400 25th St N, St Petersburg

---

Written by Lucy Noe