Boulware Springs Nature Park

Summary

Boulware Springs Nature Park is a historic nature park in Gainesville, Florida, in Alachua County that serves as a trailhead for the 17-mile Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail and offers picnicking, walking trails, wildlife viewing, and interpretive history of one of Gainesville’s earliest water sources.

Springs at This Location

Boulware Spring

Boulware Spring is a natural freshwater spring historically significant as the original source of the City of Gainesville’s municipal water supply from the late 1800s until the early 1900s. The spring’s clear flow feeds a short run and ultimately connects to the Paynes Prairie watershed. While it is not a developed swimming spring, it remains a notable natural feature and historic landmark within the park.

Activities

• Hiking
• Nature walks
• Trail running
• Biking (Gainesville–Hawthorne State Trail)
• Horseback riding (along the state trail)
• Wildlife viewing
• Birdwatching
• Picnicking

Amenities

• Multi-use trails
• Trailhead access to the Gainesville–Hawthorne State Trail
• Picnic tables
• Grill areas
• Historic waterworks site and interpretive signage
• Parking area

Park Hours

7 a.m. – 8 p.m. daily (March 15 – September 30)
7 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily (October 1 – March 14)
Hours may vary slightly; check local signage.

Entrance Fees

Free public access.

Pet Policy

Dogs are allowed in the park on a leash at all times.