Critter Crawl - The Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive!

I'm trying to come up with some interesting things for families to do now that school is out. Being a retired teacher, I always try to think of fun activities where learning happens. Here's a free drive that families can take together to enjoy seeing wildlife: the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive!

You never know what you might see on the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive!

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The one-way entrance to the Wildlife Drive is at 2850 Lust Road, Apopka, FL 32703. You'll take a slow (10 mph, maximum), 11-mile drive from the entrance point on hard-packed dirt roads. Cars will be stopping along the way to take pictures and view what happens to be out, so plan on spending 1-3 hours on the drive. There are a few places where you can pass slower vehicles, but much of the drive is too narrow for passing.

On our recent trip to the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive, there were plenty of birds to see!

You'll find a few restrooms and picnic areas on the drive, but be sure to bring water to stay well hydrated. Bring your dog if you'd like, but remember that Fido must be on a leash at all times.

The Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive is open for vehicles on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and federal holidays from 7:00 am - 3:00 pm, and all vehicles must exit by 5:00 pm. There is an audio tour that you can play along the drive that points out things to see and the history of this important ecosystem and area. If you prefer, you can print out the text of the audio tour and have someone read it as you go through the drive. There is a map of the Lake Apopka North Shore that shows where you can park, find restrooms, picnic, and access different trails. Be sure to bring your binoculars and your cameras - you never know what you might see! They even make special binoculars and cameras designed with kids in mind.

Do you see what I see? Look closely!

The drive is free to access, but donations are accepted to help support this beautiful area. Here's some more information about what you might see on the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive, including birds, insects, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.

Be sure to follow along for more ideas of things to do in Lake County, Florida, and nearby!

If you happen to know of anyone 55+ searching for a rental, 26912 Tanner Street is currently available in Leesburg.