Kevin Main "This strange and wonderful environment exists literally as a series of desertlike islands among the swamps, marshes, and soggy pine flatwoods that cover much of the state." --Jeff Ripple, Florida: The Natural Wonders

The Lake Wales Ridge Wildlife and Environmental Area consists of 19 separate tracts scattered over 75 miles. Since the Lake Wales Ridge averages less than 10 miles wide throughout its length, the tracts with few exceptions are within a few miles of U.S. 27.

The ridge was isolated from other parts of the Florida peninsula during periods of sea level rise millions of years ago. On the ancient shorelines and dunes, plants and animals found nowhere else on earth evolved. Nineteen species of plants and five species of animals found here are so rare that they are protected by the federal government. Here you find the Florida scrub-jay, the sand skink, and the Lake Placid scrub mint, whose insect repellent properties have only recently been discovered. You can get involved in protecting these rare plants and animals by joining the Ridge Rangers volunteer program.

Eighty-five percent of the land on the ridge has been developed, first for citrus groves and cattle ranches and more recently for residences. This area was created to preserve and to perpetuate remaining natural areas, and thus recreational uses are limited to those consistent with this goal. The Lake Placid Scrub Unit is divided into three sections by paved roads; west, central, and east. Horseback riding is allowed in the west and central sections by permit only, and is allowed in the east section (Royce) without permit.  Permits can be obtained by calling the SW Regional office in Lakeland at (863) 648-3200. Hiking is allowed in all three sections however there is only one parking area for the east section (the central section can also be accessed from this parking lot). There is an observation tower in the east section. Biking is allowed in all three sections; roads are fairly bumpy. 

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