Escape to Holloway Park, an urban sanctuary situated in the heart of Lakeland, and immerse yourself in the beauty of its trails, wildlife encounters, and tranquil settings. Go beyond the everyday hustle with a visit to this cherished local escape.
There is no admission required, open year-round (except Mondays), and a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Discover why Holloway Park isn’t just another green space, but a vibrant ecosystem awaiting your exploration.
Holloway Park in Lakeland, Florida, is a tranquil nature preserve offering various trails, cross-country courses, and immersive wildlife experiences, all within the convenience of city limits.
The park is rich in history, founded on former phosphate mines, and operates under a ‘Leave No Trace’ principle, with pet-friendly options, promoting respectful enjoyment of the area’s biodiversity.
Visitors can enjoy numerous outdoor activities beyond hiking, such as birdwatching and photography, with best times to visit for bird migration being January through August and the winter months.
Nestled within the city limits of Lakeland, Florida, Holloway Park is a stunning nature preserve and a hidden gem. This 362-acre area offers an array of recreational activities, from cross country running to leisurely strolls amidst diverse plant life and wildlife characteristic of Central Florida. The tranquil song of birds, rustling leaves, and calming whispers of nature accompany you as you traverse its trails.
The park’s unique landscape is a testament to its history as a former site of phosphate mines. Founded by the dedicated Mary Ann and Ed Holloway, it has been transformed into a serene sanctuary that preserves the land’s natural beauty and biodiversity.
Located conveniently within the city’s limits at 2402 Holloway Park Dr, Lakeland, FL 33803, Holloway Park is easy to reach. It’s easy to access and offers an inviting escape from the urban environment. To get to Bartow from downtown Lakeland, head south on US 98. After just 3 miles, you’ll find the turnoff onto Holloway Park Dr on the right.
Open from 7:00am to 7:00pm from March to October, and from 7:00am to 5:30pm from November to February, the park is closed on Mondays. Visitors can explore the park free of charge, but donations are greatly appreciated to support the park’s growth and maintenance.
The founders of Holloway Park, Mary Ann and Ed Holloway, dreamt of preserving the land in perpetuity. Their vision was realized in 2010 when the park was established on the site of former phosphate mines, giving it a unique history and landscape.
Today, the Holloway Park Foundation, a charitable corporation approved by the IRS, holds the title and manages the property, ensuring the founders’ legacy lives on. With each visit, you become a part of this legacy, experiencing the peaceful serenity that the Holloways envisioned.
Embark on an adventure of exploration and discovery on Holloway Park’s mesmerizing trails. The trails can be easily accessed through the inviting trailhead at the fence line under the majestic oaks. Follow the color-coded signage, mirroring the map available at the kiosk, guiding you along the park’s diverse trails.
The adventure can start with:
The connector trail, which leads a quarter mile along a waterway edged by a swamp forest
The loop trails, which begin from the connector trail
The Primitive Trail, which offers a thrilling experience as it drops into natural habitats at the southeast corner of the park.
Whether you’re an experienced runner or a beginner, Holloway Park’s cross-country trails have something for everyone. Scenic landscapes wind through the park’s:
3K course
5K course
8K course
10K course
These trails are meticulously maintained with wide start lines and a gentle uphill stretch along a high ridge for approximately 1700’.
For those seeking a longer challenge, the park offers an option to extend any of the courses. The South Loop can be taken at a trail junction to add an extra 0.1 mile to your run. No matter your skill level, every step on these trails brings a new discovery.
Approximately 2.6 miles of nature trails await exploration beyond the park’s cross-country trails. These trails include:
Hiking trails
Jogging paths
Bird watching trails
Dog walking trails
As you meander through these trails, you’ll encounter an array of wildlife, from birds and insects to reptiles and possibly even a bobcat or coyote.
The park’s interpretive signs and guided tours further enhance the experience, allowing you a deeper understanding of the landscape and its inhabitants. So whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, Holloway Park’s nature trails provide an immersive experience of Florida’s vibrant ecosystem.
One particular highlight of Holloway Park is the Lake Ann Loop Trail. This scenic 2.6-mile trail caters to both beginners and more experienced hikers, offering:
Varying terrain
Beautiful views
Rolling terrain
Lush timbered areas
As you trek along the trail, you’ll be surrounded by its natural scenic beauty.
Halfway through the trail, you’ll find a meadow that’s a hotspot for wildlife sightings. Here, you may spot majestic bald eagles and other wildlife species, a treat for both nature enthusiasts and photographers.
The Lake Ann Loop Trail showcases the best of what Holloway Park has to offer, making it a must-visit trail during your visit.
Holloway Park extends far beyond just trails. It’s a haven for outdoor activities and offers a range of amenities to enrich your visit. From birdwatching to picnicking, there’s an activity to suit every visitor’s preference. The park’s birdwatching amenities include hiking trails and jogging paths where you can observe a diverse range of bird species such as Black-bellied Whistling-Duck, Barred Owl, Pied-billed Grebe, and more.
If you prefer a more leisurely visit, the park’s designated picnic areas offer the perfect setting to relax and savor a meal in the natural surroundings. And for pet owners, the park is pet-friendly, allowing you to enjoy a day out with your furry friends.
Holloway Park serves as a paradise for birdwatchers and photographers. The park is home to an array of bird species, including:
Black-bellied Whistling-Duck
Barred Owl
Pied-billed Grebe
Majestic bald eagles
The best times to enjoy birdwatching at the park are during the winter months and the spring and fall migrations.
As you explore the wooded paths, you may spot large flocks of American Robins and smaller birds. To enhance your birdwatching experience, consider bringing binoculars and a backpack or lumbar pack.
The park’s natural beauty, found in this urban nature park, also presents ample opportunities for photography, offering a picturesque backdrop for your photos.
Seamlessly blending into the natural surroundings, Holloway Park’s beauty extends beyond its trails to designated picnic areas. These picnic spots include well-marked paths, shady areas, and a few picnic tables, providing a peaceful environment for picnicking. You’re welcome to bring your favorite snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, and other picnic essentials to enjoy a wonderful day at the park.
For those seeking relaxation, Holloway Park provides diverse environments, from open prairies to forested woodlands. Whether you’re embarking on a hiking adventure or enjoying a leisurely picnic, the park’s serene setting offers the perfect backdrop for relaxation.
The pet-friendly policy stands out as one of Holloway Park’s best features. Dogs are welcome on all trails throughout the park, as long as they are kept on a leash. Owners are required to clean up after their pets, ensuring a clean and enjoyable park for everyone.
The park’s designated pet-friendly areas provide a safe and fun environment for pets and their owners to enjoy. So, whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, Holloway Park offers an enjoyable outing for you and your furry friend.
In addition to offering plenty to see and do, Holloway Park is surrounded by an area brimming with attractions. Nearby, you’ll find:
Bonnet Springs Park, which offers outdoor attractions like botanic gardens, a canopy walk, and a large playground
Circle B Bar Reserve, which is a great spot for birdwatching and wildlife viewing
Fort Fraser Trail, which offers activities such as walking, hiking, and biking
These attractions provide additional options for outdoor recreation and exploration near Holloway Park.
Circle B Bar Reserve, located around Lake Hancock, offers a fantastic opportunity for birding and spotting a diverse range of wildlife. The reserve boasts beautiful oak hammocks, wetlands, and an array of bird species. Whether you’re staying for a day or a week, the attractions near Holloway Park promise a wealth of adventures.
Keeping in mind the park regulations and safety tips is key to ensuring a memorable visit to Holloway Park. The park encourages a ‘Leave No Trace’ principle, asking visitors to keep their dogs on a leash, clean up after their pets, and refrain from bringing bicycles and alcohol. Being considerate of other visitors and respecting the park’s rules ensures a pleasant experience for everyone.
When planning your visit to Holloway Park, remember:
The best times to visit are from January through August and during the winter months when you can spot winter bird species.
Pack essentials like water, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and suitable footwear.
Bring a camera, bug spray, a cell phone, and let a friend know about your plans for the day.
Guests visiting Holloway Park should embrace the ‘Leave No Trace’ principle, respect the marked trails, and avoid feeding wildlife. Dogs are welcome on all trails, provided they are kept on a leash. Bicycles, alcohol, and fishing are not permitted in the park. Packing water, using insect repellent, and sunscreen are recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable park experience.
Visitors can also contribute positively to the environment and wildlife by appreciating the park’s natural items without taking them and cleaning up after themselves. This respect for the park’s natural environment ensures a pleasant visit for all.
January through August, particularly the winter months, are considered the best times for a visit to Holloway Park, especially for birdwatching. The most birds migrate to Holloway Park during the fall and spring seasons, offering an incredible birdwatching experience.
The park’s operating hours change throughout the year. The park is open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. from March to October, allowing visitors to enjoy the extended daylight hours during these months. The park’s opening hours are 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. from November to February, providing plenty of time for visitors to enjoy the attractions throughout the day. The park is closed on Mondays, ensuring a refreshing start for the park staff and visitors alike.
Holloway Park offers a unique blend of nature, tranquility, and recreation within the city limits of Lakeland, Florida. From its diverse trails and wildlife encounters to its pet-friendly policies and outdoor amenities, the park has something for everyone. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, Holloway Park promises a memorable nature retreat. So, strap on your hiking boots, pack your picnic basket, and get ready to explore the serene landscapes of Holloway Park.
Yes, dogs are allowed at Holloway Park as long as they are kept on a leash at all times. So feel free to bring your furry friend along for a visit to the park.
Holloway Park operates from 7:00am to 7:00pm from March to October and from 7:00am to 5:30pm from November to February, with the exception of Mondays.
Holloway Park offers a variety of trails, such as cross country courses, nature trails, and the Lake Ann Loop Trail, providing options for different types of outdoor activities.
You can expect to see a variety of wildlife at Holloway Park, including birds, insects, and possibly bobcats or coyotes. Enjoy the experience!
Yes, there are several nearby attractions to visit after Holloway Park, including Bonnet Springs Park, Circle B Bar Reserve, and Fort Fraser Trail. Enjoy exploring!
407-575-5392
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DBA Morris & Co
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16797 Broadwater Avenue
Winter Garden, Florida 34787
