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I Found A Hidden Boardwalk Through Epic Florida Swamps: Haw Creek Preserve

Writer: Paul Farace Photography
Paul Farace Photography
Sep 23
2 min read

Updated: 7 days ago

It's getting harder and harder to find real old Florida swamps these days, but at Haw Creek Preserve State Park in Flagler county the boardwalk will safely take you straight through a beautiful swamp and transport you right back in time.


Large HIDDEN GEM text over a lush green boardwalk forest; a backpacked hiker looks up in a calm, sunny swamp.
Click image to watch the full Haw Creek Preserve video

The best part here is anyone can access this amazing location, just be careful because the boardwalk can get slippery if it's wet out at all.


This week I went out to explore a new area at Haw Creek Preserve State Park, in north east Florida, and found an amazing boardwalk through epic Florida swamps. From beautiful water views to endless wildlife, this spot turned out to be a real hidden gem. If you have ever wanted to experience real old Florida swamps while also staying safe this is an excellent location.


Read on for all the information you might need for a successful visit!



Haw Creek Preserve Boardwalk Overview & Features


Boardwalk Length: Extends roughly 0.5 to 0.6 miles into the swamp one way (about 1.3 miles round-trip) with side boardwalks leading toward the water.


Environment: Winds through an amazing canopy of ancient live oaks, cabbage palms, and cypress trees draped in resurrection fern, moss, and orchids.


Elevation: Built about 6 feet off the ground to remain accessible and above water during high water seasonal flooding.


End of Boardwalk: You will find a field and primitive group campsite with a pavilion with picnic tables.


Sunlit wooden boardwalk winds through a lush green forest, surrounded by tall trees and dense foliage in a peaceful scene


Wildlife & Nature at Haw Creek Preserve


Birdwatching: Excellent tall canopies with woodpeckers, owls, warblers, swallow-tailed kites, and wading birds like limpkins and herons.


Other Animals: Numerous Whitetail Deer, alligators, otter and more.


Water & Swamp Views: Side boardwalks provide excellent vantage points over the blackwater Haw Creek, home to alligators, turtles and more.


Swampy river scene in Florida at Haw Creek Preserve State park.

Where is Haw Creek Preserve State Park?


Address: 2007 County Road 2007, Bunnell, FL 32110


Cost: Free admission.


Amenities: Right on Russell Landing boat ramp, featuring parking, picnic areas, and public restrooms.


Oak tree hanging over a river with green moss covering the branches at Haw Creek Preserve.

Trees on the edge of a river with reflections in Haw Creek Preserve.
Oak tree covered in air plants and green moss with back lit sunlight in Haw Creek Preserve.


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Paul Farace


Paul Farace is an award winning Florida based landscape photographer and author with 20 years of experience, specializing in capturing the state's coastlines and waterways. Operating out of St. Augustine, he shares his expertise through fine art prints, adventure videos, educational workshops, and digital content. Explore his work and bio details at Paul Farace Photography. 


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