Payne’s Prairie

Paynes_Prairie_storm

Photo Spot Summary

Country: United States

Category: Landscape

State: Florida

City: Gainesville

GPS Latitude: 29.610256

GPS Longitude: -82.304504

Directions

The main entrance to this state preserve is located at 100 Savannah Blvd; Micanopy, FL 32667 (the south side). However, the north side of the park has the La Chua Trail, which is a 2 to 2 1/2 mile walk along a flood savanna/dike that allows for excellent views.

Photo Spot Details

There are hundreds of alligators and birds in the preserve. Preserve is not open until 08:00 AM. More scenic after rains as the alligators will be more visible on the bank due to a higher water table; too low and the dike reveals more alligators but with a muddy backdrop.

Paynes_Prairie_gator
NIKON D750 + 24-120mm f/4 @ 120mm, ISO 640, 1/125, f/14
Paynes_Prairie_IR-4
NIKON D750 + 16-35mm f/4 @ 24mm, ISO 3200, 1/1, f/11
guest

1 Comment
Newest
Oldest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
John Waite

We went there a couple of months ago, and went into the side with the long boardwalk out over the marsh. Lots of birds, a couple of snakes, and only one alligator due to the weather. Then we drove over to the other side and walked a hiking path. Lots of potential for summertime shooting. I thought it was well worth the drive down from Jacksonville.