Peace River State Forest

Peace River State Forest was acquired through a donation by the Mosaic Company in October 2014. The Florida Forest Service has management responsibility for Peace River State Forest. The property has a rich history of agricultural use, including serving as a home for rhinos, hippos, giraffes, and other exotic “hoofstock” for nearly a decade. The management plan of the Florida Forest Service guides the grazing, outdoor recreation, timber, wildlife, and ecological restoration of the forest using the multiple-use concept.

Natural Features

Peace River State Forest includes a variety of improved ranges and natural communities, including floodplain forest, cypress, mixed hammock, and remnants of pine flatwoods. Several miles of largely undisturbed frontage along Horse Creek and the Peace River provide abundant wildlife habitat.

Recreation

The forest offers recreational opportunities in the form of hiking and horseback riding with two trails.

The Horse Creek Hiking Trail is designated for hiking and consists of a 2-mile loop that runs along Horse Creek until it loops back through the oak hammock and open pine flatwoods to the main trailhead.

Aurin Lake Horse Trail is a 6-mile equestrian trail that bows around the outside of a cattle lease along the southern portion of the main body of the State Forest. The trail winds through a variety of natural areas along the Peace River, passing Aurin Lake, the confluence of the river and Horse Creek, and finally looping back along the creek to the trailhead. Access to this trail requires a State Forest Use Permit, which can be obtained by visiting the State Forest office or calling (863) 491-5318. See map for the office location.

Note: Proof of current negative Coggins test is required for all horses in all Florida State Forests.

For more information and park updates, go to Peace River State Forest / State Forests / Our Forests / Forest & Wildfire / Home – Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services.