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23

Florida State Parks

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USA Parks
Florida
Southeast Region
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
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Hugh Taylor Birch State Park © Gknor / Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Entrance to Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park © Tamanoeconomico / CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
A water taxi departs from Hugh Taylor Birch State Park in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park © quyentr / CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park intracoastal
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HUGH TAYLOR BIRCH STATE PARK
HUGH TAYLOR BIRCH STATE PARK
3109 East Sunrise Boulevard
Fort Lauderdale, Florida   33304

Phone: 954-564-4521
A short walk from beachside shops and condominiums, this park is an oasis of tropical hammocks-a gift from Hugh Taylor Birch to Florida's posterity. His former estate preserves four distinct natural communities, nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. Visitors can rent a canoe and paddle along a mile-long freshwater lagoon or fish from the seawall. Nature lovers can hike along two short trails and learn about local plants and wildlife while bicyclists and skaters glide along the paved park road. Visitors can access the beach via the pedestrian tunnel under A1A. Picnic areas overlook the channel; pavilions with water and electricity are available for rental. A group/youth campground is available to organized groups. The Terramar visitor center features the area's natural and cultural history. Located on East Sunrise Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale, off A1A.
History of the Area
Hugh Taylor Birch, a Chicago attorney and real estate investor, purchased the land in 1893. He used it as his winter home until he donated it to Florida's people in 1941.

The park was initially named Fort Lauderdale Beach State Park but renamed after its donor by legislative action in 1947. It officially opened for public use on October 1st of that year.

This area is rich with diverse ecosystems including mangroves and freshwater lagoons which support various wildlife species such as gopher tortoises and marsh rabbits.

Over time, facilities like picnic areas were added along with an interpretive center showcasing local ecology. Today, visitors can enjoy activities from hiking to canoeing within this urban oasis nestled between the Atlantic Ocean & Intracoastal Waterway.

Passes
Annual Entrance Passes can be purchased at all park ranger stations and museums. If you require immediate use of your pass, this is the best option. Passes can be purchased during regular business hours 365 days a year. Please call the park in advance to ensure availability. Those who are eligible for discounted or free passes may use this method to receive their pass. Annual Entrance Passes may be purchased online by visiting the FLORIDA STATE PARKS ANNUALENTRANCE PASSES web page.
Camping
Youth Camping

The Elk?s Youth Camp was built by the Fort Lauderdale Elk?s Club in 1950 for non-profit youth groups. It was renovated in 2005 to provide central air conditioning and individual restrooms in each of the 6 cabins. The lodge has complete kitchen and dining facilities for the camp maximum accommodation of 68.

Primitive Camping

The Primitive Youth Group Camping Area is for non-profit youth groups and can accommodate up to 40 campers. T The Primitive Area accommodations include a restroom, cold water, and cold shower.
Visitors Center
The Terramar Visitor Center is Hugh Taylor Birch?s home. Built in 1940, it is a mix of Mediterranean and art deco styles. It contains displays of the history of the area and an environmental display of this unique ecosystem. The Visitor Center is open 9:00 a.m. ? 5:00 p.m., Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays. Admission is free with paid park entrance.
Swimming
The park is adjacent to Ft. Lauderdale Beach, one of the most popular beaches in the state. Beach access is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., daily.
Boating
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. Canoe and kayak rentals are available, providing an excellent way to explore the mile-long freshwater lagoon. The calm waters make it ideal even for beginners or those who want a leisurely paddle. For larger boats, there is access to the Intracoastal Waterway with boat anchoring in designated areas only.

Fishing
Enjoy fishing in the freshwater lagoon, home to species like largemouth bass and catfish. Saltwater fish include snook and tarpon.

You can cast a line from shore or rent a canoe for deeper waters.

Fishing gear rentals are available on-site, making it easy for beginners to get started.

Catch-and-release is encouraged here as part of conservation efforts.

Remember that Florida state law requires all anglers over 16 years old have valid licenses when freshwater fishing.


Location
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is located near Boca Raton, Dania and Deerfield Beach

Picnicking
Several shaded picnic areas with playground equipment, pavilions and barbecue grills are conveniently located close to parking throughout the park. Each of the three picnic pavilions is equipped with electricity and water and can accommodate approximately 75 people. The pavilions may be rented for $63.60 per day, tax included.
Trails
Bicycling

The park drive is 1.9 miles and is very popular with bicyclers and inline skaters alike. The drive is one-way and bicyclers and skaters are required to observe this restriction

Nature Trails

The Coastal Hammock Trail provides hikers a 20-minute leisurely walk through a native coastal strand forest ecosystem. Interpretive signs along the trail provide information about the habitat and native flora. The Exotic Trail gives a different view of the park by including many plants brought here by Mr. Birch. It winds its way through a mix of native vegetation and non-native species.

Bicycling
Biking is a popular activity, with over 2 miles of paved park roads available. Exercise caution due to vehicular traffic.

Rentals are provided on-site for those without their own equipment. Always check the condition before setting off.

The terrain varies from flat surfaces to slight inclines, suitable for all skill levels but always remain vigilant.

Helmet use is strongly recommended while biking and remember that Florida law requires it for riders under 16 years old.

Avoid cycling after dark as there's limited lighting along paths which can lead to accidents or collisions with wildlife.

Remember hydration; carry water bottles especially during hot summer months when temperatures soar high in this region.

Respect nature by staying within designated trails only - do not venture into restricted areas or unpaved routes.

Lastly, be aware of pedestrians sharing pathways - slow down at crowded spots and announce your presence if necessary.
Nature Programs
Ranger-guided walks are provided on the Coastal Hammock Trail during the winter season on Fridays at 10:30 a.m. Walks for organized groups, at other days and times, can be provided by pre-arrangement.
Birding
The park offers diverse birding options with over 200 species, including migratory and resident birds. Birdwatchers can spot wading birds like herons and egrets along the freshwater lagoon. The coastal dune area attracts shorebirds such as sandpipers and plovers. Woodland areas are home to songbirds, woodpeckers, hawks, owls etc., while mangrove swamps host ibises or spoonbills.


Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
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Area Campgrounds
Holiday Park
3140 West Hallandale Beach Boulevard
Hallandale Beach, FL
954-744-1094
Kozy Kampers RV Park-Storage
3631 West Commercial Boulevard
Fort Lauderdale, FL
954-731-8570
Sunshine Holiday MHCC RV and Camping Resort
2802 West Oakland Park Boulevard
Fort Lauderdale, FL
954-731-1722
Embassy RV Park
3188 Lake Shore Drive
Hallandale Beach, FL
954-961-8892
Golf View Estates Mobile Home
901 Northwest 31st Avenue
Pompano Beach, FL
954-972-4140
Encore Breezy Hill
800 Northeast 48th Street
Pompano Beach, FL
954-942-8688
Yacht Haven Park & Marina
2323 West State Road 84
Fort Lauderdale, FL
954-583-2322
Paradise Island RV Resort
2121 Northwest 29th Court
Oakland Park, FL
954-485-1150
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is located on East Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale, off A1A.

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Florida
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Florida State Parks

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