Before Word Gets Out, Visit Florida’s Newest Nature Preserve

Florida's newest nature preserve opened up within the past few months, and this one deserves a big shout-out. Not only is the Gladys E. Douglas nature preserve open for business with nature trails, plants, and so much more, but it's also open because of a community banding together to keep their little slice of nature open. Dunedin describes the preserve as the largest undeveloped sandy ecosystem remaining in north Pinellas County, and it's officially open for all to enjoy. But what's more, is that this preserve also has a second phase of expansion coming in a few years that adds a beautiful lake to the mix!

It’s a good thing that the citizens of Dunedin, Florida, banded together because what is now Florida’s newest nature preserve was almost another subdivision.

Gladys E. Douglas Preserve just opened its very first 44-acre phase to the public in February with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. This phase features a half-mile of nature trails winding through the conservation area.

The second half of the phase will include adding Jerry Lake, which will officially expand the preserve to 124 acres.

Just two years ago, bulldozers came in to get the land ready for soil testing, making way for more homes and more community subdivisions to a private developer.

However, the city and the community wanted to keep the preserve and green space for its residents, raising $10 million of the purchase price on their own.

The property is filled with natural beauty, from the 143 native plant species to the 80-acre adjoining lake and wetlands.

The future amenities and access to Jerry Lake will likely be expected to open in 2025, but for now, guests can enjoy the 44 acres of natural beauty.

So come and explore the newest nature preserve in Florida and see what the community of Dunedin came together to accomplish.

What do you think about the newest nature preserve in Florida? Would you spend a day enjoying this preserve? Sound off in the comments section! Personally, I'm a huge fan of nature preserves. Not only do they offer a slice of nature that is unique to the area, but they often provide a sense of solitude, too. If you want to learn more about this preserve, then check out the Gladys E. Douglas Preserve website.

Do you want to keep exploring the great outdoors in Florida? You're in luck, because we've got some real beauties. Check out Oakland Nature Preserve in Florida just 30 minutes from Orlando. You can also make a weekend out of your stay by choosing an overnight accommodation courtesy of Hotels.com.