Hike the Wilderness Preserve Trail
14 Miles
Stand Up Paddle, Kiteboarding, Chillin, Camping, Fishing, Photography, Running, Kayaking, Yoga, Swimming, Backpacking, Hiking
Intermediate
Spring, Summer
Out-and-Back
A long, scenic hike to the tip of Cape San Blas peninsula. Ideal for birding, quiet solitude, and more.
Parking is open and free for all designated spots within the state park.
At the end of the parking area, there is a gate with a large brown sign. This sign reads "St. Joseph Peninsula State Park / Wilderness Preserve Access." This is where the trail begins.
The trail is easy to follow with yellow markers as guides. Along this main trail, there are several smaller trails. The smaller trails on the right lead you to the beaches of St. Joseph Bay while the trails on the left lead you to open views of the Gulf of Mexico.
These trails are home to several birds, both small and large sand dunes, and more. People often kayak to and from this wilderness preserve, camp in designated areas, and fish along the shores.
To return to the trailhead, follow the same trail back.
For camping reservations and more, visit: http://floridastateparks.reserveamerica.com/camping/st-joseph-peninsula-sp/r/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=FL&parkId=281069
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations.
Reviews
Overall rating:
Great Unknown Place
I will start by saying that entrance fee into the park is $5. The Wilderness Preserve Trail also has 7 primitive campsites. Campsites 1,2 and 7 are accessible from the bay by kayak or canoe. I would recommend all three of these sites. Camping is also $5 per person, per night. Altogether a state park few people know about. Would highly recommend.
