Photo: Big Tree Park - Cross Seminole Trailhead
Photo: Ryan Jacobs
Photo: Frank Bainbridge
Big Tree Park - Cross Seminole Trailhead
★4.6(780 reviews)FreePark
🕑 1.5-2 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers love the playground and spotting wildlife from the boardwalk, while elementary-aged kids appreciate learning about the ancient trees and exploring the Cross Seminole Trail. The easy terrain makes it stroller-friendly for families with multiple ages.🧡 Saved by 70+ families
About
Big Tree Park offers families a unique opportunity to witness ancient natural history up close with Lady Liberty, a majestic 2,000-year-old cypress tree, accessible via an easy boardwalk trail through beautiful wetlands. Kids can burn off energy at the playground after exploring nature, making it a perfect blend of education and outdoor fun that even younger children can enjoy.
Highlights
- ✓Lady Liberty, the ancient 2,000-year-old bald cypress tree that stands 89 feet tall
- ✓Elevated boardwalk through cypress wetlands perfect for wildlife viewing
- ✓Playground area for active play after nature exploration
- ✓Access to the Cross Seminole Trail for extended walking or biking
- ✓Educational signage teaching kids about Florida's native ecosystems and history
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid Florida heat and increase wildlife spotting opportunities,you might see turtles, birds, and even alligators from the safety of the boardwalk
- 2.Bring bug spray and water bottles, especially during summer months when mosquitoes are active near the wetlands
- 3.Download or pick up the nature education materials available to turn your visit into a fun scavenger hunt for kids
- 4.The boardwalk is about a quarter-mile loop, perfect for little legs, and completely stroller and wheelchair accessible
- 5.Combine your visit with biking or walking part of the Cross Seminole Trail,you can rent bikes nearby or bring your own for added adventure
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings between October and April for the most pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Early morning visits (right at 8 AM opening) offer the best chance to see wildlife active along the boardwalk and cooler temperatures for comfortable exploring.
What to Know
Admission is free with ample parking available. There are restrooms on-site but no food concessions, so pack snacks and drinks. The boardwalk and main features are fully accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Seasonal Notes
Best visited during Florida's cooler months (October through April) when temperatures are comfortable and bugs are less active. Summer visits are possible but plan for early morning to beat the heat. The park is open year-round with consistent hours.
Nearby Eats
Head to Jeremiah's Italian Ice (about 5 minutes away) for a refreshing treat the kids will love, or stop at PDQ for quality chicken tenders and a play area to keep the outdoor fun going.
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