Northlake Nature Center

Randomly came across this FREE hidden gem on our way to FL. We just wanted a spot to stretch our legs hella quick and possibly take advantage of some picturesque nature…. And this place surpassed ALL our expectations!!! I can confidently say this place IS THE BEST nature center ive ever experienced, Unlike the plethora of others I’ve come across… truly Nothing can even begin to compare to the secluded romantic untouched perfection

At the gravel parking lot, there was mayyybe 2 other vehicles with ppl still sitting inside (and a crew working on something there in P.lot when we had finally left] Aside from that, once we actually entered the nature center, we didn’t encounter ANYONE at all on our entire exploration!! 😆😆

Love this place. Only unfortunate thing about the trails is how the north and south loops are a bit too close to the neighboring park and aren't always a woodsy hike but through the field adjacent to the park. Nice to be greeted by the resident alligator in beaver pond! I hope that people aren't feeding him so he becomes too comfortable around people and winds up attacking someone. His presence is very peaceful right now.

Fun saw gator in the pond. Very wet when I went.

trails were well marked and clean.. perfect amount of shade to bring my doggo and still keep him comfy. bring water as there is none on the trails.

I came out here with my husband just to see all the beauty that is here. We saw all sorts of wildlife and animals around. We even saw quite a few turtles and small alligators swimming around that did not see us as they kept swimming around and gave us something to watch. I told my husband not to be a child, and disturb them by being lous or yelling. He was a good boy and listened.