Article and Photos by Becca McCoy
At the end of a residential street in Lealman is a gateway to 400 acres of natural Florida. Sawgrass Lake Park exists thanks to a unique cooperative agreement between Pinellas County and Southwest Florida Water Management, giving residents access to one of the largest maple swamps on the Gulf Coast. This habitat is host to an extensive variety of wildlife, with hundreds of confirmed species of flora and fauna – about half of which are birds. Thousands of birds migrate through the park in spring and fall, making this an ideal time of year to discover – or rediscover – Sawgrass Lake Park.
With nature trails and a mile of recently upgraded elevated boardwalks, visitors can immerse themselves in a tranquil walk to and from the 20-acre Sawgrass Lake, viewable in panorama from an observation tower. Every visit includes sightings of some of the Park’s protected wildlife – from alligators, turtles, and snakes to squirrels, rabbits, and insects. This serene yet dynamic greenspace is in the top 15 Things to Do in St. Petersburg according to Trip Advisor.
Sawgrass Lake Park is part of Pinellas County Parks and Conservation Resources’ 20,000-acre portfolio and includes amenities like a first-come-first served picnic pavilion with grill and free parking. The Anderson Education Center and its indoor restrooms are closed for refurbishment with a reopening target of December 2024; portable restrooms are available in the meantime.
Unwind in unspoiled natural Florida, right in Lealman’s backyard.
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Sawgrass Lake Park is located at 7400 25th Street North. It is open daily from 7am-sunset, observing two closure dates: the day after Thanksgiving and December 25th. Learn more at https://pinellas.gov/parks/