The CCC-built botanical garden and arboretum — an early experiment in Florida horticulture.
Along the way you'll pass the park's botanical garden and arboretum, and it's another gift from those Depression-era CCC boys. Back in the nineteen thirties, along with cutting the trails, they laid out gardens here to study and show off the plants that would grow in central Florida — natives and useful trees and ornamentals, an early experiment in Florida horticulture when nobody quite knew yet what would thrive. Some of the trees they planted a lifetime ago are grand and mature now.
It's a peaceful spot for a short stroll, and a nice reminder that this park has always been about more than just leaving the wild alone — it's also been a place to learn how Florida grows. Wander it if you've a mind to; the big forest will be waiting when you're done.
Photo: Brandon Moore (Raskuly) · CC BY 4.0
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