Polk Nature

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Preserving Nature for Future Generations

Polk’s Environmental Lands Program acquires, preserves, protects, manages and restores endangered and environmentally sensitive lands, water resources, and important wildlife habitats. Acquired properties are used for passive outdoor recreational purposes provided that such uses will not disturb or degrade the environmental quality for which the site was acquired.

Begin Your Adventure Here

Whether you’re planning a hike, attending an education class or exploring Polk’s Nature Discovery Center, you can explore what Polk County’s Environmental Lands have to offer here.

Student Explorer Studying a Science Experiment

Explore

Whether you are interested in seeing the ancient beach sand dunes, all the unique plants and animals, or looking to explore the Green Swamp with its majestic cypress domes, Polk County's Environmental Lands Program invites you to discover Florida's true nature.

Explorer Hiking a Trail

Prepare

Be prepared. Knowing what to bring and expect on your visit will help you have a great experience.

Polk's Nature Discovery Center

Discover

Visit the hub of Polk County's Environmental Lands Program. Visit and discover the water, wildlife, and wilderness of Polk County.

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