Salt marshes on the Gulf of Mexico give way to a succession of swamps, hardwood forests, pine flatwoods and scrub, providing splendid opportunities for nature study and wildlife observation.
The scrub is dominated by species such as sand live oak, myrtle oak and Chapman's oak, along with rusty lyonia and saw palmetto. Hikers and off-road bicyclists who want to experience a mosaic of Florida habitats will find it on the miles of trails that wind through the park. The shallow waters and numerous creeks near the salt marshes are ideal for canoeing and kayaking. Rental canoes and kayaks are available in the city of Cedar Key.
Experiences
Bicycling
The reserve utilizes existing jeep trails for multi-use trails and firebreaks, totaling about four miles on the east portion and eight miles on the western portion. These trails are primarily used for hiking, but are also available for off-road bicycle riding. The trails on the eastern portion are mostly sugar-sand so we recommend riding on the western portion where the ground allows for better traction. The trailhead of the western portion is located on CR347 which runs between Cedar Key and Fowlers Bluff.
Helmets are highly recommended for all cyclists and Florida law requires helmets for cyclists age 16 and under.
Birding
The diverse habitats of the reserve provide opportunities for nature study and wildlife observation. The Reserve is an important stop-over for migratory birds and is home to the Florida Scrub Jay, Bald Eagle and other birds.
Paddling
The shallow waters and numerous creeks of Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve's salt marsh provide excellent opportunities for canoeing and kayaking. Rental canoes and kayaks are available in nearby Cedar Key. There is no launch within the Reserve. We recommend using the boat ramp located behind the FWC Senator George Kirkpatrick Marine Laboratory, off SR 24 at the entrance to Cedar Key, to access the reserve's waters.
Fishing
Saltwater fishing is popular in the adjacent waters. The shallow waters and numerous creeks of Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve's salt marsh provide excellent opportunities for fishing from a canoe or kayak. Rental canoes and kayaks are available in nearby Cedar Key. There is no launch within the Reserve. We recommend using the boat ramp located at the FWC Senator George Kirkpatrick Marine Laboratory, off SR24 at the entrance to Cedar Key, to access the reserve's waters.
All fishing within the park must conform to regulations concerning size, number, method of capture and season. A fishing license may be required. More information is available at the Florida Wildlife Commission’s Fishing in Florida.
Geo-Seeking
Explore the park in a new and challenging way. Experienced Geocachers have requested permission to hide caches containing trinkets, treasures, or information in various places around the park. Please check the Geocaching website for the most current and up-to-date information and clues to locate these caches.
Operation Recreation GeoTour
Hiking Nature Trail
The reserve utilizes existing jeep trails for multi-use trails and firebreaks, totaling about four miles on the east portion and eight miles on the western portion. The reserve is divided into two portions by CR347 which runs between Cedar Key and Fowlers Bluff. The main trail head is located on SR24. There is also a trailhead on CR347 which allows for direct access to the trails in the western portion of the reserve. All of the trails are primarily used for hiking, but are also available for bicycling and horseback riding. The diverse habitats of the reserve provide opportunities for nature study and wildlife observation.
Horse Equestrian Trail
The reserve utilizes existing jeep trails for multi-use trails and firebreaks, totaling about four miles on the east portion and eight miles on the western portion. The reserve is divided into two portions by CR347 which runs between Cedar Key and Fowlers Bluff. The main trail head is located on SR24. There is also a trailhead on CR347 which allows for direct access to the trails in the western portion of the reserve. All of the trails are primarily used for hiking, but are also available for bicycling and horseback riding. The diverse habitats of the reserve provide opportunities for nature study and wildlife observation. Owners must possess proof of negative Coggin's test for any horse on the property.
Picnicking
A small picnic area with a waterless composting toilet is located at the SR24 trailhead on the eastern portion of the reserve. A picnic shelter, picnic tables, grills and informational kiosk are also located in this area. The trailhead has a stabilized parking area to accommodate about 15 vehicles.
Wildlife Viewing
The diverse habitats of the reserve provide opportunities for nature study and wildlife observation. The Reserve is home to the Florida scrub-jay, gopher tortoise, and white-tailed deer among others.
Amenities
Parking
There are two parking areas, one at each trailhead in the reserve. The eastern portion of the reserve can be accessed using the parking and trailhead on SR24 and the western portion using the parking and trailhead located on CR347.
Pets
Well-behaved dogs are welcome at Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve. They must be kept on a 6-foot leash at all times and cannot be left unattended for more than a half-hour. Please clean up after your pet.
Restroom Facilities
A small picnic area with a waterless composting toilet is located at the trail head located on SR24.
