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Hálpata Tastanaki
Preserve
Size
8,110 acres
Location
Southwest Marion County, east of Dunnellon
About the Property
A variety of habitat types occurs on the property
and includes floodplain swamp and oak scrub
along the Withlacoochee River and longleaf pineturkey
oak sandhills occurring in upland areas.
Recovering stands of oak scrub scattered amid the
sandhill support the threatened Florida scrub-jay.
In addition to natural resources, the property
supported a rich historical past. The preserve is
named after Seminole leader Hálpata Tastanaki
(Chief Alligator) who, along with Osceola, Jumper
and approximately 1,000 warriors, took part in the
largest battle of the Second Seminole Indian War
in 1836. Included within the property is the site of
the community of Stockton, established shortly
after the conclusion of the Second Seminole
Indian War.
Public ownership of the property provides for
the long-term protection and enhancement of
floodplain forests along the Withlacoochee River,
isolated wetland systems and extensive upland
areas with high rates of aquifer recharge.
Limited Access Areas
Public access to sensitive areas such as
restoration and archaeological sites is restricted to
designated trails.
Access and Parking
• Public access off CR 484 at northern property
boundary and along SR 200 on eastern property
boundary.
• Pruitt trailhead accessible from CR 484 entrance
(located on a portion of preserve that is leased
to Office of Greenways and Trails and managed
as a portion of Cross-Florida Greenway).
• ADA access and facilities available.
Hours of Operation
Daily from sunrise to sunset.
Restrooms and Water
Portable toilets available at Pruitt trailhead
parking area. No water available.
Recreational Opportunities
Bicycling
• Permitted on trails designated for multiuse
activities.
• Always wear helmet. Florida law requires
bicyclists under 16 to wear helmets.
Boating and Paddling
• Access to property from Withlacoochee River. No
access to river from preserve.
• East Riverside Drive, Goldendale and Dunnellon
boat ramps available nearby.
Equestrian Use
• Two of three recreational trail loops designated
for preserve are intended to serve as a multiuse
system for equestrians, bicyclists and hikers.
• Each rider must carry proof of current negative
Coggins test.
Fishing
• Bank fishing on Withlacoochee River.
• Contact Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation
Commission for license requirements.
Hiking
Trail system provides a series of three loop
trails that allow hikers to tailor their hike to their
personal preference.
Picnic Facilities
Located at Pruitt trailhead.
Nearby Recreation Lands
• Marjorie Harris Carr Cross-Florida Greenway
• Ross Prairie State Forest
• Two Mile Prairie
For More Information
Land Resources Department, Southwest Florida
Water Management District, 1-800-423-1476 (FL
only) or (352) 796-7211, ext. 4470
Recreation Guide to Southwest Florida Water Management District Lands
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