Weedon Island Preserve
Weedon Island Preserve, formed officially in June 1972, is a one of the most beautiful nature and archaeological preserves in Florida. This 3,200-acre aquatic and upland ecosystem is home to countless species of plants and animals. The preserve is the perfect place to visit for anyone looking to experience a fun and educational outdoor adventure.
Weedon Island Nature Preserve History
The first inhabitants of the preserve settled in the area roughly 5,000 years ago. The ancient inhabitants created a culture that consisted of advanced social structures, ceremonialism and beautiful artistic pottery. Archaeologists found these ancient artifacts and were able to restore them to near perfect condition. The artifacts may be viewed at the Weedon Island Preserve “Cultural and Natural History Center”.
The most recent and must see addition to the center is a 40ft. dugout canoe found in the Weedon Island Preserve that is estimated to be over a thousand years old.
Nature
The Weedon Island Nature Preserve is home to the most stunning and diverse wildlife that St. Petersburg Florida has to offer. The preserve’s kayaking visitors can expect to see animals in the water ranging from massive mammals such as the manatee, all the way to tiny mangrove crabs. The wildlife is not only in the water either, all you have to do is look up and you will see countless species of birds scanning the water looking for their next meal. View the powerful diving osprey swooping into the water for their next meal, and watch as anhingas follow the kayak as you glide through the water stirring up fish. The natural beauty of Weedon Island is truly one of a kind.
St. Pete Recreational Activities
The Weedon Island Preserve really has something fun and exciting to offer all members of the family. Whether you are looking for adventure, or you simply want a relaxing day out in nature and away from the office Weedon Island is perfect for everyone. The Weedon Island Preserve has over 4.5 miles of hiking trails and 4 miles of kayak trails. You could exploring the scenery for the whole day and still not see everything the trails have to offer. Explore the trails on your own, or through guided tours from companies like ECOmersion Kayak. If hiking and kayaking are not for you, then you can sit back and relax on any one of the three observation platforms on the preserve.
The coolest attraction the preserve has to offer are the 4 miles of mangrove tunnels. Explore the mangrove tunnels by kayak or paddle board and it will be a relaxing aquatic experience you won't forget. Lastly, Weedon Island Preserve is an amazing location for any fishing enthusiasts. The preserve boasts a fantastic fishing pier for cast net and traditional fishing. The pier is a great location to catch tons of fish such as sheepshead, jack, snook and mullet.
The Preserve
Weedon Island Preserve has activities for everyone, and is a must see location for anyone in the Tampa/ St Pete. area.
