Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is described as Fort Lauderdale’s own Central Park. The urban oasis was gifted to the city and has become a popular destination for residents of Fort Lauderdale. The park features biking, hiking, fishing, paddling, swimming, camping, and of course wildlife viewing.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is part of several recognized trail systems in Florida including the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail and the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail.
Activities & Programs
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park offers a variety of amenities such as a picnic pavilion, a shower station, gardens, and a canoe/kayak launch. Many of these amenities are accessible, including the restroom facilities.
The park has plenty of activities for children with direct beach access, a playground, and interpretive exhibits. These exhibits focus on the natural and cultural history of the Fort Lauderdale area.
The park is open from 8:00 am to 5:30 pm all 365 days a year. For overnight trips, youth groups have two options: the Elks Youth Camp or the Primitive Group Campsite.
Fort Lauderdale Elks Youth Camp
Built in 1950 for nonprofit youth groups, the Fort Lauderdale Elks Youth Camp is an incredible feature of Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. The camp accommodates 68 people in six air-conditioned cabins. The lodge provides a full kitchen and dining facility as well.
Primitive Group Campsite.
Organized youth groups can also reserve the youth group primitive campsite. The camp accommodates up to 50 people in tents with a composting toilet system and primitive shower. The park provides firewood as well as a campfire circle and grill.
Ranger-Guided Visits
Every Friday and Saturday morning, park rangers lead a 1-hour guided walk. The ranger will share stories from the past and discuss what Mr. Birch would have seen when he arrived in Fort Lauderdale. The guided walk is free with the state parks entrance fee and meets at 10:30 am at the entrance station.
Want to have an adventure? Look no further than the Jungle Queen Riverboat.
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