Openings/closings for Cuscowilla, Poe Springs Park, and nature preserves

August 7, 2024

Press release from Alachua County

ALACHUA COUNTY, Fla. – Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center has reopened following Hurricane Debby.

The Santa Fe River is anticipated to crest Friday and be above flood levels. Due to this, the spring at Poe Springs Park will be browned out and the surrounding area will be flooded. Poe Springs Park will remain closed through this weekend at least and we will reevaluate the conditions on Monday, Aug. 12, 2024.

Alachua County’s nature preserves sustained impacts from Hurricane Debby, including flooding and trees uprooting on some trails. The staff has assessed trail conditions and re-opened some preserves to public access. For your safety, please respect preserve and trail closures and stay off closed trail areas.

The following county nature preserves have been re-opened:

Barr Hammock Preserve – Levy Loop Trail only
Turkey Creek Preserve
Buck Bay Preserve
Sweetwater Preserve

All other county preserves with public access remain closed while staff address storm damage and safety concerns.