Allen David Broussard State Park Catfish Creek State Park is located in Haines City, Florida on the Lake Wales Ridge. It offers a wide array of outdoor activities including fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. The ridges of the park have been shaped by the rise and fall of the ocean over centuries many years ago. In fact, these ridges began as sand dunes until they became what they are today.
Today, the park also features several areas that show evidence of burning. These burned areas are the result of a strategy known as prescribed fire, a practice which is being utilized to manage the preserve. Situated along the Lake Wales Ridge, the Allen David Broussard State Park Catfish Creek State Park offers an amazing array of exciting outdoor activities.
Horseback Riding
The park includes 7 to 8 miles of equestrian trails that take riders through lush foliage.
Horseback riders must stay on the designated equestrian trails. The trails can be quite challenging, but they offer a chance for wildlife viewing at the same time.
Fishing
Several ponds are located in the park where fishing is permitted. These fishing locations are located approximately one mile from the parking lot, so be prepared to do some hiking to get there. Comfortable shoes should be worn. Sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellant are useful in this area.
Picnicking
While picnicking is permitted at the park, the picnic area is limited in size. A covered pavilion is available onsite. No scheduled rentals are available, so the picnic area is available on a first come, first served basis only.
Hiking
Approximately 6 miles of hiking trails are available at the Allen David Broussard State Park Catfish Creek State Park. Since the park features a scrub habitat, hikers should be prepared to travel rugged trails that can become quite challenging at times. Much of the hiking trails are covered in sand and feature difficult trekking conditions. Wear proper footwear and bring plenty of water with you while hiking.
The terrain includes scrub, flatwoods, and sandhill habitat, all part of the Lake Wales Ridge habitat. Some of the plants found in this area are listed on the rare plant species list including the pygmy fringe-trees, scrub morning glory, cutthroat grass, and the scrub palm.
Wildlife Viewing
A number of different species can be found within the park’s parameters. Several protected species live in the park including bald eagles, wood storks, Florida scrub lizards, gopher tortoises, and Florida scrub jays.
Details
With free admission, the Allen David Broussard State Park Catfish Creek State Park is open 7 days a week year round from 8:00 am until sundown. A parking lot is available. While some guided group events are often scheduled throughout the year, unguided tours are permitted during park hours.
Water is not available in the park, so visitors should bring their own. Insects are found in the park, so bringing insect repellant along is a good idea.
Allen David Broussard State Park Catfish Creek State Park is located to the east of Dundee. It is located at 3950 Firetower Road.