Gumroot Park and Gumroot Swamp Conservation Area

Location:  7300 NE 27th Avenue Gum Root Park features trails through a variety of natural communities, including blackwater stream, floodplain swamp, xeric hammock, baygall, pasture, and pine flatwoods. Adjacent to hundreds of acres of state conservation land, Gum Root is a great location for birding and wildlife viewing. Directions: Gumroot Park and Conservation Area are located approximately five miles east of Downtown Gainesville, on State Rd 26. Take University Avenue east until State Rd 26 splits, and continue on 26. Gumroot Park is located at the corner of State Rd 26 and NE 27th Ave, Gumroot Swamp Conservation Area is approximately one mile past NE 27th Ave on State Rd 26. Hours: Park hours from dawn to dusk daily. Information: 352-393-8756 Natural Communities: Together the parks take in 741 acres that are cooperatively managed by the City of Gainesville and St Johns River Water Management District. A large portion of the properties is Floodplain Swamp, dominated by a canopy of cypress and gum trees. The upland portions are Scrubby Flatwoods, remnant flatwoods, and a 20-acre pasture. Little Hatchet Creek, a Blackwater stream, empties into Newnans Lake within the Conservation Area. The Parks are located on the northern shore of Newnans Lake. This lake is an Upland Clastic Lake, and supports a diverse wildlife population. Wildlife that can be seen at these parks includes deer, otters, alligators, and numerous birds. Amenities: Both parks have limited parking areas, informational kiosks, and loop trails. In addition, the Conservation Area has interpretive materials, and a picnic pavilion.