Depending on your interests, Boyd Hill Nature Preserve can make for a quick visit or an overnight experience. Lake Maggiore Environmental Education Center has classes for all ages; your first class is free. The Pioneer Settlement is a separate feature that hosts its own camps, festivals, and more. The Terry Tomalin Campground is St. Pete’s first primitive campsite. Between the three attractions, you can plan a whole overnight experience that involves wildlife viewing, hiking, and learning about the history and ecology of the preserve.
There are only 12 campsites available, so reserve it in advance if you are visiting on weekends.
Children can pre-register for seasonal camps at the Pioneer Settlement.
A second entrance is located at the north end of the preserve off 22nd Street and connects to the hiking trails.
Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is located at 1101 Country Club Way S. in St. Petersburg, right along the shores of Lake Maggiore. The easiest way is to take the 54th Avenue South exit on Interstate 275, then head north on Dr. M.L.K. Jr. Street South until you reach the park. A public bus route also serves the area, stopping on Dr. M.L.K Jr. Street near the intersection of Country Club Way.
Boyd Hill Nature Preserve releases a quarterly leaflet that could give you an idea of when to visit, as the preserve occasionally hosts drop-in programs, guided tours, and a variety of other weekly activities. If you’re just coming to hike or bike the trails, the early morning or evening hours will be the best times to see wildlife.
If you’re visiting in February, check the schedule to see when the annual Raptor Fest is. This day-long festival in Boyd Hill Nature Preserve has free admission for guests to learn more about these birds of prey. There are photo opportunities with the birds, family-friendly activities, and more exhibits, as well as free parking and shuttle service from nearby lots.