From the St. Johns River Water Management District
In Summary:
The Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive has grown into a major destination for nature lovers, offering an 11-mile route through restored wetlands on the North Shore. District staff and volunteers from the Orange Audubon Society will host an anniversary event May 3 to help visitors identify wildlife and learn about conservation efforts. The site, once agricultural land, now stands as a model of environmental restoration, supporting more than 370 bird species and improving water quality in Lake Apopka.
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Eleven years after opening to the public, the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive continues to grow in popularity, now welcoming more than 200,000 visitors each year. The one-way, 11-mile drive winds through a mosaic of wetlands, levees, and canals, offering exceptional opportunities to experience Florida’s native wildlife.
Related: Orange County Program helps residents protect springs and save on septic repairs.
To celebrate the anniversary, District staff and volunteers with the Orange Audubon Society will be stationed at two locations along the drive, which begins at 2850 Lust Road, Apopka, Fla. 32703, on Sunday, May 3, from 9 am to 2 pm. They will be available to help visitors identify wildlife, answer questions about the property, and distribute giveaways. Vehicle pullovers along the drive provide opportunities to stop at preferred sites. Visitors can also hike or bicycle the nearly 20-mile Lake Apopka Loop Trail, providing additional opportunities to explore the area’s natural systems and learn about water resource protection and conservation.
“This property tells a powerful restoration story,” said Land Manager Ben Gugliotti. “It’s rewarding to share that experience with so many visitors each year. We’re especially grateful for the volunteers with Orange Audubon, whose ambassador program plays an important role in connecting visitors to this landscape.”
Part of the District’s 20,000-acre Lake Apopka North Shore restoration area, the wildlife drive has become a favorite for birders, nature lovers, and families. With over 370 bird species recorded, including bald eagles, swallow-tailed kites, and great blue herons, it’s recognized as one of Florida’s top birding destinations. Along the route, visitors often spot alligators and may also encounter otters, turtles, and even bobcats.
More than a scenic destination, the property represents the District’s long-term commitment to environmental restoration and water resource protection. In 1996, under direction from the Florida Legislature, the District purchased former muck farms on the North Shore to support the restoration of Lake Apopka. Over time, these agricultural lands have been transformed into thriving wetlands, creating a network of habitats that support wildlife while improving water quality. Today, the area stands as a model of the District’s science-based, multi-benefit approach, integrating restoration, water resource protection and public access.
“The restoration of the Lake Apopka North Shore reflects years of innovation, dedication and hard work,” said the District’s Strategic Planning Basin Coordinator for the Ocklawaha River Basin, Jim Peterson. “The property was acquired to support the restoration of the state’s fourth-largest lake, and now the wildlife enjoys the habitat, and the public enjoys the wildlife viewing and recreation opportunities.”
The Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive is open for vehicular access from 7 am to 3 pm on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays.
For more information about the District’s restoration efforts on Lake Apopka and their impact on the community, click here. To explore birding opportunities on the Lake Apopka North Shore, click here.
More information about recreational opportunities on District lands is available at www.sjrwmd.com/lands/recreation.
Key Points:
- The Wildlife Drive now attracts more than 200,000 visitors annually
- Anniversary event set for May 3 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m along the drive
- Visitors can explore an 11-mile scenic route or a nearly 20-mile loop trail
- The area supports over 370 bird species, along with alligators, otters, and other wildlife
- The site is part of a 20,000-acre restoration project transforming former farmland into wetlands
St. Johns River Water Management District staff are committed to ensuring the sustainable use and protection of water resources for the benefit of the District and the people of the state of Florida. The St. Johns River Water Management District is one of five districts in Florida that manage groundwater and surface water supplies. The District encompasses all or part of 18 counties in northeast and east-central Florida. District headquarters are in Palatka, and staff are also available to serve the public at service centers in Apopka, Jacksonville, and Palm Bay.
For more information about the District, please visit www.sjrwmd.com.
