Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park sits on over 8,000 acres of rolling sand hills in Haines City, making it one of Polk County’s largest and least-visited natural areas. Established in 1991, this preserve protects one of the finest remaining examples of Florida’s ancient Lake Wales Ridge ecosystem — a landscape that predates the last ice age and harbors dozens of plant species found nowhere else on Earth.

The park’s standout feature is its longleaf pine and scrub habitat, maintained through regular prescribed burns that keep the understory open and wildflower-rich. Hikers can explore roughly 10 miles of trails winding through sandhills, seasonal wetlands, and oak hammocks. The park is particularly rewarding for birders — Florida scrub-jays, red-cockaded woodpeckers, and sandhill cranes are all regularly spotted here. Fishing is available at Catfish Creek itself, and the preserve’s remote feel makes it a solid pick for trail running or horseback riding without crowds.

Camping availability is not currently confirmed, so check with the park directly before planning an overnight trip. Day-use visitors will find the park uncrowded even on weekends — this is a place where you can walk for an hour without seeing another person.

The best time to visit is late fall through early spring, when temperatures are comfortable and mosquitoes are manageable. Summer visits are doable but bring plenty of water and bug spray. With a 4.3-star rating from visitors, Catfish Creek rewards anyone willing to venture off Florida’s beaten path.

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