Size
6,000 acres
Location
Southwest DeSoto County, east of Port Charlotte
About the Property
Public water supply facilities, agriculture, wildlife habitat conservation and passive recreation characterize the diversity of the working landscape at the RV Griffin Reserve. The reserve offers vistas of pine flatwoods, freshwater marshes, wet prairies and glimpses of forested wetlands and oak hammocks. Much of the flatwoods has a sparse overstory of pines and resembles Florida dry prairie, one of North America’s most imperiled ecosystems.
The reserve was named in memory of DeSoto County Commissioner RV Griffin. Prior to acquisition, the property was to become a large planned community called the Villages of DeSoto. The District purchased the property in 1992 to help meet future water needs of Charlotte, DeSoto and Sarasota counties. The Peace River/Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority (PR/MRWSA) now operates water facilities that were originally built by the developer in anticipation of the project.
During the dry season, the amount of water flowing down the Peace River declines and is unable to supply all the water needed by the public. During times of high flow, river water is diverted for storage. Raw river water is held in a reservoir located on PR/MRWSA property within the reserve. Pipes connect the reservoir to a treatment plant on neighboring land. For additional storage, treated water is injected into underground wells of the aquifer storage and recovery system.
Limited Access Areas
- 374-acre preserve area at northern tip of property is open only for hiking.
- 303-acre reservoir area closed to public use.
- 180-acre spoil removal site at SW corner of property is closed to public use.
Access and Parking
From I-75, take exit 170 at Kings Highway (CR 769). Drive north 5 miles; entrance on left.
Hours of Operation
Daily from sunrise to sunset.
Restrooms and Water
Portable toilet, but no water available.
Recreational Opportunities
Bicycling
- 7 miles of shared-use trails.
- Bicyclists required to stay on marked trails.
- Always wear helmet. Florida law requires bicyclists under 16 to wear helmets.
Equestrian Use
- 15 miles of shared-use trails.
- Riders required to stay on marked trails.
- Each rider must carry proof of current negative Coggins test.
Fishing
- Canal and lake fishing available on west side of property. Access by foot from North Port.
- Fishing and frogging allowed throughout year.
- Contact Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for license requirements.
Hiking
22 miles of shared-use trails.
Nearby Recreation Lands
Deep Creek
For More Information
Land Resources Department, Southwest Florida Water Management District, 1-800-423-1476 (FL only) or (352) 796-7211, ext. 4470
