Crooked Lake Prairie Preserve
A hidden gem in central Florida, offering unique sandy trails and exceptional lake views for a peaceful nature escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, few visitors
Crooked Lake Prairie Preserve
Best Time
Pleasant weather, few visitors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hidden gem in central Florida, offering unique sandy trails and exceptional lake views for a peaceful nature escape.
"This is a hidden gem! Unfortunately the boardwalk by the lake is not being maintained."
🥾 Wear Tall Hiking Boots
Sandy trails are common; tall boots prevent sand from getting into your shoes.
📱 Use a Trail App
Trail markers are poor; a navigation app is highly recommended.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Silica Sand Trails
Unique, soft sandy paths offering a different hiking experience. Some find them walkable even barefoot!
Exceptional Lake Views
Stunning vistas of the lake, offering a peaceful escape into nature.
Shady Picnic Spots
Enjoy a meal amidst nature in pleasant, shaded areas perfect for a relaxing break.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Footwear
Navigation & Trail Markers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Tall Hiking Boots
Sandy trails are common; tall boots prevent sand from getting into your shoes.
📱 Use a Trail App
Trail markers are poor; a navigation app is highly recommended.
🚶♀️ Check Boardwalk Safety
The boardwalk by the lake may be unsafe or closed for repairs. +1
💧 Be Prepared for Wet Spots
Some areas can remain wet, so good footwear is key.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Tall Hiking Boots
Sandy trails are common; tall boots prevent sand from getting into your shoes.
📱 Use a Trail App
Trail markers are poor; a navigation app is highly recommended.
🚶♀️ Check Boardwalk Safety
The boardwalk by the lake may be unsafe or closed for repairs. +1
💧 Be Prepared for Wet Spots
Some areas can remain wet, so good footwear is key.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Crooked Lake Prairie Preserve is a tranquil, often uncrowded natural area with beautiful lake views and unique sandy trails. However, visitors should be aware of poorly marked paths and a boardwalk in disrepair, making sturdy footwear and navigation aids essential for a good experience.
"Very sandy in some spots (difficult to walk in) and very poor trail markers. Be sure to wear taller hiking boots as to not get sand in your shoes. Bring a trail app or there’s a brochure at the trail head. There was no one else there when we were there."
Amy Chiu
"I have lived in lake wales for over 20 years and brought my sister here when she visited. This is a hidden gem! Unfortunately the boardwalk by the lake is not being maintained. The view is exceptional and the silica sand trails were walkable in my bare feet in spots. It was February and not a soul was present when I went. A few nice benches by the lake would be beautiful to have and possibly some informational plaques along the way. Shady areas are nice for a picnic too. A beautiful area of central Florida that is obviously overlooked."
Cheryl Councilman
"The boardwalk needs repair and is not safe to use."
LD McC
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The preserve is located in central Florida. While specific public transport options are limited, driving is the most common way to access it. Parking is available at the trailhead.
Yes, there is parking available at the trailhead, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Due to poor trail markers, it's highly recommended to use a trail app on your phone or consult the brochure available at the trailhead for navigation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Information regarding entrance fees is not widely available, suggesting it may be free to enter. It's always a good idea to check local park advisories before your visit.
Specific operating hours are not detailed, but natural preserves are typically open from dawn to dusk. Confirm locally if possible.
No advance booking is typically required for natural preserves like this. Entry is usually on a first-come, first-served basis.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The preserve features unique silica sand trails, which can be soft and challenging for some. Be prepared for sandy conditions. +1
Trail maintenance can be inconsistent. Some visitors note sandy conditions and areas that could be better maintained or are overgrown. +1
Reports indicate the boardwalk by the lake needs repair and may not be safe or could be closed. Exercise caution or avoid it. +1
Fishing is possible, but the lake shore can be overgrown with pads, and conditions might be tough.
Information on restroom facilities is not readily available. It's advisable to plan accordingly and use facilities before arriving.
📸 📸 Photography
The exceptional lake views offer beautiful scenery for photography. The unique sandy trails and natural Florida landscape also provide great photo opportunities.
While not guaranteed, you might spot local flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for birds and other natural elements of the prairie ecosystem.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Navigation is key, so ensure you have a reliable trail app or map, as trail markers are sparse.
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Solo hikers should prioritize navigation tools like a trail app, as the trail markers are poor and getting off-track is a possibility.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Sandy Trails
Navigation can also be a hurdle. The preserve is known for its poor trail markers, leading some visitors to take wrong turns and add unexpected mileage to their hikes.
The Boardwalk and Lake Access
Despite the boardwalk's condition, the views of the lake from other vantage points are consistently described as exceptional.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit