Lake Hart: Nature by the Lake and in Split Oak Forest

Lake Hart is a 1,881-acre lake in unincorporated Orange County. Split Oak Forest borders the lake to the north; Moss Park offers boat access to Lake Hart and Lake Mary Jane. In the surrounding area, you can choose among different ways to enjoy the water, observe wildlife, explore trails through various habitats, and take part in guided nature activities. When planning your trip, it’s worth deciding first which of these activities interests you most.

Moss Park: Boat Access and Wildlife Viewing

Moss Park offers boat access to Lake Hart and Lake Mary Jane. It also offers tent and RV camping, as well as many opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. Groups can take part in programs and guided walks; advance registration by phone is required. If you’re planning a group visit, be sure to make that call in advance.

Trails and Features of Split Oak Forest

In Split Oak Forest, a network of hiking trails and unpaved roads leads through different habitats and offers opportunities for wildlife viewing. Two specific route lengths can help you choose: the Lake Loop is 1.2 miles long, while the North/South Trail is 5.3 miles long. The North/South Trail is therefore 4.1 miles longer and more than four times as long as the Lake Loop. This difference can help you decide how long a route you want. The forest is named after a living oak tree that is about 200 years old. It split down the middle and survived.

Other Natural Areas Nearby

A section of the Florida National Scenic Trail passes through Crosby Island Marsh Preserve in the Lake Hart area. Check conditions at the preserve before you drive there. Also nearby is Eagles Roost, with natural wetlands, a wildlife trail, and an observation pier on Lake Hart. As visitor operations may change, check current operating status before your visit.

Wildlife Viewing at Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge

Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge, in the Lake Hart area, offers another opportunity to observe wildlife. Visitors can see more than 25 different wildlife species there with the Educational Ambassadors. Guided educational tours of the wildlife rehabilitation center are also available. Visiting hours are Tuesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; check the hours before you arrive. This will help you plan your visit within your available time.

Choose a Trail or a Guided Visit?

When choosing a nature activity, you can consider two separate questions: Would you like to explore a route through different habitats, or are you interested in a guided educational tour? The varying trail lengths in Split Oak Forest can help you decide on the first option; the refuge offers tours of its rehabilitation center. You can then plan your trip around whether a trail or a guided nature activity better suits your interests.

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