Exploring Lake County: Palatlakaha River Park in Clermont
The Palatlakaha River Park, open from sunrise to sunset, is like an Old Florida postcard. Its lush and scenic cypress corridor is 2.5 miles and teems with wildlife.
The park’s launch provides boaters access to the Crooked River and the Clermont Chain of Lakes, but there’s more to explore if you have the time. It's a great place to go if you want to get away but don't have the entire day to venture out.
The river originates at Lake Louisa, south of Groveland, and flows north to Lake Harris. North of Lake Harris it becomes the Ocklawaha River which flows to the St. Johns River entering the Atlantic at Jacksonville.
There’s also a walking trail just under a mile long that’s packed with an amazing variety of wildflowers and changes in elevation, offering a lot to enjoy in a relatively short amount of time. Educational signs point out various plants along the way.
Palatlakaha River Park’s 18 acres include the endemic Florida scrub jay as well as its signature scenic hammock of live oaks and bald cypress trees.
The park has two fishing piers, a playground and a pavilion with a grill and surprisingly clean port-a-potties.
Since fall has begun, it’s a great time to go birding at this picturesque preserve. Early mornings and sunsets are the best time to spot its summer tanagers and Cooper's hawks. Bobcat, gopher tortoise, oak toad and black racers have been spotted in the area.
More: Hike with history at Bourlay Historic Nature Park
Unfortunately, the Palatlakaha River is considered impaired according to the Florida Dept. of Environmental Protection's (FDEP) implementation of the Impaired Waters Rule (IWR). Best not to swim or drink the water at Palatlakaha River Park.
Palatlakaha River Park is located at 12325 Hull Road, Clermont. Call 352-253-4950 for more information.
This article originally appeared on Daily Commercial: Take a mini hike or paddle at Palatlakaha River Park
