E. Revell, Jr. Nature Trail Conservaton Area
The E. Guy Revell, Jr. Nature Trail Conservation Area is a relatively new and
vital addition to the protected landscapes of Wakulla County. Acquired in 2020
by the Northwest Florida Water Management District (NWFWMD), this 40-acre gem is
more than just a place for a weekend stroll; it is a critical piece of the
ecological puzzle designed to protect the Wakulla Springs watershed.
Located just east of
Crawfordville, there are two trailheads into the conservation area - both with a
parking area. One is at the west end of Maplewood Drive. The other is at the
east end of Saddletree Trail. Both trailheads have an information kiosk. The
Maplewood entry also has restroom facilities available.
The area serves
as a living laboratory for habitat restoration and groundwater protection. The
primary mission of the Revell Conservation Area is the restoration of the
longleaf pine ecosystem, which once dominated the Southeastern United States but
now exists in only a fraction of its original range. Visitors to the trail can
witness this restoration in real-time. Since 2023, extensive plantings of
longleaf pine and wiregrass have been underway to return the land to its
ancestral state. This open-canopy forest structure is not only aesthetically
beautiful but also essential for the survival of native species like the gopher
tortoise.
The nature trail itself is designed for ease of access and quiet contemplation.
It is a shaded, natural-surface trail that winds through a mix of recovering
uplands and denser, hardwood-shaded patches. Because it is a "conservation area"
rather than a high-traffic state park, the atmosphere is notably serene.
The transition from young pines to established hardwoods makes this an excellent
spot for birders. You are likely to spot pileated woodpeckers, various warblers
during migration, and hawks patrolling the open areas. The interplay of light
through the pines and the unique limestone outcroppings provide plenty of
subjects for nature photographers. The area acts as a "hidden gem" for those who
want to escape the larger crowds at Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park while
remaining in the same ecological neighborhood.
The area is named in honor of E. Guy Revell, Jr., a long-serving member and
former chairman of the NWFWMD Governing Board. His legacy is tied to the
preservation of Florida’s water resources, making this specific conservation
site—with its direct impact on the health of the Wakulla River—a fitting tribute
to his work in environmental stewardship.
Whether you are a local looking for a quick escape or a visitor interested in
Florida's unique hydrogeology, the E. Guy Revell, Jr. Nature Trail offers a
peaceful, educational window into the future of Florida’s conservation efforts.
Activities & Facilities
Dogs allowed
Short hiking trails
Long hiking trails
Mountain bike trails