Just beyond the urban sprawl of Lake Nona and southeast Orlando, there sits a tranquil space unmarred by development, providing a welcome escape from traffic and human activity.
The Split Oak Forest is a haven for humans and wildlife alike, set on nearly 1,700 acres of land managed by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Explore more than nine miles of marked trails on foot or horseback while traversing several natural communities.
The public green space may sound familiar to Central Floridians who remember a ballot initiative in 2020 that voters passed by a wide margin, protecting Split Oak from a toll road and development. Within the protected land, wander through pine flatwoods, oak scrub and sandhill habitats, stopping near several ponds and lakes along the way.
The main green loop trail spans 5.3 miles and presents a good overview of the wildlife and environmental area. When heading north from the Clapp Simms Duda Road trailhead, walk for about 1.5 miles to find the namesake of the preserve: a 200-year-old live oak that split down the middle and survived.
It’s in the surrounding northern section of trails that views of Lake Hart and Bonnet Pond are possible, if water levels allow. Sometimes the trails in this section may prove soggy.
Otherwise, the trails alternate between shaded oak hammock, pine flatwoods with partial shade and sunny, sandy paths, presenting a variety of scenery for visitors to enjoy. On a long hike, it’s possible to take the Swamp Trail for access to adjacent Moss Park, a natural space managed by Orange County.
Within Split Oak, white-tailed deer, gopher tortoises, sandhill cranes, Sherman’s fox squirrels, owls and other birds of prey may be spotted. Also, be on the lookout for carnivorous pitcher plants within the forest. When visiting, you’ll find tranquility and peace of mind is just a hike away.
Important information
Location: 12175 Clapp Simms Duda Road in Orlando
Hours: Open 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset daily
Amenities: Hiking trails, equestrian access, trash can, parking
Activities: Hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, wildlife viewing
Accessibility: Split Oak Forest has sandy, sometimes rugged trails that would prove challenging for wheelchair users.
What to bring: Bring sunscreen, drinking water and bug spray to keep mosquitoes and other insects at bay. Footwear is a consideration, especially with trails that are sandy or muddy. A map will prove useful for navigating Split Oak — Gaia GPS or AllTrails both have digital options.
What not to bring: Motorized vehicles and bicycles are prohibited at Split Oak Forest. It is against the rules to disturb plants and animals. Hunting, firearms, fires and littering are also against the rules.
Pets: Pets are not allowed at Split Oak Forest.
Pro tips: Restrooms and water aren’t available at Split Oak, but they can be found at adjacent Moss Park. Consider visiting Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge to get up close with animals at the sanctuary right next door to Split Oak.
More information: 850-488-4676 or myfwc.com
Find me @PConnPie on Twitter and Instagram or send me an email: pconnolly@orlandosentinel.com.
