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 Scherer Thaxton Preserve Factoids:
  • 287 acres
  • Property acquired in 1992 
  • Named for Elsa Scherer Burrows, daughter of Oscar Scherer; and Jon Thaxton, a local Florida scrub-jay expert who led the effort to protect the adjacent lands to Oscar Scherer State Park
  • No restroom facilities
  • No drinking water available 
  • All trails are available for hikers and bikers
  • Trail links to Oscar Scherer State Park and the Legacy Trail 
  • Pine flatwoods, wetlands and a lake



 Rules and Regulations:
  • Hours: 6 AM - sunset
  • All plants and animals are protected - take only photos
  • No soliciting
  • No open fires
  • No glass
  • No unauthorized vehicles
  • No motorized watercraft 
  • No camping
  • Dogs must be kept on a hand-held, maximum 6-foot leash

Amenities:
  • Ample parking
  • Canoe/kayak launch
  • Interpretive signage 
  • Trail maps at parking lot
  • Picnic tables
  • Benches
  • Unpaved trails
  • Biking, birding, fishing, hiking, paddling and wildlife viewing

Insider Tips:
  • This is one of my favorite preserves - especially for finding eagles, osprey and owls!
  • Start with the easy lake loop and enjoy the beauty
  • Take your rain boots during seasonal rain periods!
  • Wear sunscreen, insect repellent and a hat
  • Carry in and out water, snacks, toilet paper, sanitizer

What to Expect:
  • Scenery
  • Wildlife












Bald Eagle

Owls


Great Horned Owl

Barred Owls

Mourning Dove


Rabbits are everywhere in the parks and the preserves.


Incredible spider webs 


Great Blue Heron


Red-winged Blackbird


Eastern Meadowlark


Sandhill Crane

Grackles





Red-bellied Woodpecker


Tufted Titmouse


Zebra Swallowtail



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