Get this! You can see wild bison AND wild horses at a state park two hours north of Tampa!

You’ll feel like you’re in the Wild West. Follow this route to make the most of your adventure!

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park can provide one of the most magical experiences in central Florida!

If you get lucky, you can watch wild horses roam and wild bison graze!

But, first things first: You might be wondering, “How the heck are there wild horses and wild bison in Florida?”

That, my friend, is a question I asked myself too!

The bison were reintroduced as a native species at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park in the 1980s because they were present in the area hundreds of years ago.

The wild horses were reintroduced around the same time. they once roamed the area as well. Here’s some of the backstory from a 2017 Ocala Style article:

“Spanish explorers came to the Paynes Prairie area in the 1500s and brought with them horses and cattle,” says Amber Roux, the Florida Park Service specialist at Paynes Prairie. “This area became the largest cattle ranch in Florida at that time. When the Spanish left, horses and cattle were left behind. The descendants of those horses were later used by the Seminole Indians and then Florida cattlemen.”

So, when I’m thinking of making a trip to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, the first thing I always do is call the ranger station (352-466-3397) to find out the conditions of the trails.

This is really important because sometimes the best trails can be muddy or flooded! Because of that, it’s good to plan a trip during Florida’s dry season (typically October through May).

Now that you’ve confirmed the trails are in good condition, here’s how you should map out your day:

Get to the main entrance of Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park right when it opens at 8 am. Drive all the way back to the 50-foot observation tower. Enjoy the serene sounds and sweeping views of the prairie from the top. Make sure to bring binoculars! You could see the wild horses or wild bison off in the distance. After, hit the restroom, get back in your car, leave the main entrance of the park.
Take a right on US highway 441 and continue to the Bolen Bluff Trail. It’s going to be about five minutes up the road and on the right side. The trail itself is 2.6 miles roundtrip. You’ll wind through the forest and onto the prairie. If conditions are good, you’ll be able to make your way out to a small observation deck. I’ve seen the wild horses, wild bison, and even alligators in this area too! Oh, remember to pack your bug spray as well!
We’re keeping this party going! Get back into your car and head for the La Chua Trailhead. It’s about a fifteen minute ride from the Bolen Bluff trail. There are restrooms at this trailhead. You’ll also get to enjoy a boardwalk. The trail in total is three miles roundtrip. This is a great spot to see alligators, wading birds, and adorable marsh bunnies!