Size
333 acres
Location
Central Pinellas County in Pinellas Park
About the Property
Sawgrass Lake Park was designed for people interested in observing and learning about nature. The main emphasis at the park is environmental awareness and education. The John Anderson Environmental Education Center houses a laboratory, classroom and display facilities. Exhibits and dioramas of a geological, biological and cultural nature are available for public viewing. It also contains a large freshwater aquarium.
The Sawgrass Lake project began in 1972 to provide flood protection to the city of Pinellas Park. A water-control structure was built to facilitate drainage canal improvements and to maintain desirable water level fluctuations in Sawgrass Lake and the surrounding swamp. The District retains responsibility for operating the water-control structure. The lake and swamp system also provide natural water treatment to enhance the quality of water draining to Tampa Bay.
In 1976, the District, Pinellas County and the Pinellas County School Board cooperatively agreed to establish a county park and an environmental education center on the property. A kindergarten through fifth-grade continuum in environmental education is presented to area school children. Programs for grades 6 through 12 are available on request.
Access and Parking
- From 62nd Avenue North, head north on 25th Street; park entrance at end of road.
- Vehicles allowed on paved entranceway into park.
- ADA access and facilities available.
Hours of Operation
Daily from 7 a.m. until sunset.
Restrooms, Water and other Amenities
Restrooms and water located inside environmental education center. Pay telephone and bike rack located outside center.
Pets
- Allowed in park, but not on boardwalk or in nature center.
- Must be on leash no more than six feet in length.
- Owners requested to clean up after their pets.
Recreational Opportunities
Bicycling and Inline Skating
- Allowed on paved park road.
- Always wear helmet. Florida law requires bicyclists under 16 to wear helmets.
Bird Watching
- Site 94 on western section of Great Florida Birding Trail.
- Contact Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for more information.
Hiking
- More than a mile of elevated boardwalk winds through a red maple swamp. An overlook tower provides panoramic view of Sawgrass Lake.
- Hammock Trail — 0.5-mile natural-surface trail.
- Paved park entrance road.
Picnic Facilities
Some picnic tables and large shelter available on first come, first served basis.
Nearby Recreation Lands
Weedon Island Preserve
For More Information
Sawgrass Lake Park, (727) 217-7256
