Oviedo, FL Parks & Trails: Find the Right Park

When I’m picking an Oviedo park, the activity usually decides it for me. If I had kids with me and the forecast was warm, I’d head to Center Lake Park for the playground and splash pad combo. For a quieter walk, Solary Park’s downtown boardwalk and rain gardens are my pick. Round Lake Park earns the trip when someone wants a pier and playground together, and the Bark Park is the clear choice for a dog that needs to run. The table below lines up six common picks side by side so nobody has to overthink it.

Find a parkThe trailsDogs and kids
city parks and facilities
14
Run by the City of Oviedo
natural lands
8
County, state and water-district preserves
trails and paddles
14
Paved, singletrack, boardwalk and river
off-leash dog parks
2
Center Lake and The Bark Park

Start with what you want to do

Use the filters and cards below to narrow the full list by who runs a park or what it must have. When you need more than the matrix, the Little Big Econ first hike guide covers the Barr Street start and route options; the Lake Jesup guide handles the Overlook boardwalk stop; and the Cross Seminole Trail guide has the regional route planning.

Twelve things people come here looking for, and the one place in Oviedo to go for each.

Compare six park options

Comparison checked October 28, 2026 against city and county sources. “Not listed” means the manager’s page does not confirm that amenity.

Oviedo park feature comparison
ParkChoose it forPlay or walkDog areaRestroomsHours & arrival
Center Lake ParkSplash pad plus playground and boardwalk in one stopPlayground, splash pad, boardwalkDesignated dog parkYes7 a.m.–10 p.m.; 299 Center Lake Lane
Friendship ParkTwo playgrounds and picnic shelters close togetherTwo playgroundsNot listedYesDawn–dusk; 200 W Broadway Street
Solary ParkDowntown boardwalk, rain gardens and Florida Trail accessBoardwalk, walking path, pavilionNot listedYesDaily; parking lot at 161 E Franklin Street
Round Lake ParkPier, boardwalk, playgrounds and courtsPlaygrounds, pier/boardwalk, courtsNot listedYesDawn–10 p.m.; 891 E Broadway Street
Bark Park at Shane KellyDedicated off-leash dog park with agilityBenches and picnic tablesDesignated dog parkConcessions buildingDawn–dusk; Tue/Fri opens 9 a.m.; 499 Waggin Trail
Overlook ParkCounty boardwalk and oak-shaded pavilion on Lake JesupBoardwalk, fishing and wildlife viewingNot listedNot listed; confirm with county8 a.m.–dusk; 1988 Spring Avenue

Every Oviedo park, preserve and launch

Filter by what you need. Each card says who runs the place, because that decides the rules, the fees and who to call.

25 of 25 shown

Who runs it
Must have
Center Lake Park, Oviedo, FL
City park

Center Lake Park

Oviedo on the Park

The town square: splash pad, swan boats, amphitheater and the downtown dog park.

299 Center Lake Ln, Oviedo, FL 32765Directions

Hours
7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily
Parking
Free lots and garage in the Oviedo on the Park district; they fill on event days
Cost
Free. Swan boats $5 for up to 2 people, $10 for 2 to 4, weekends 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Dogs
Off-leash dog park inside the park, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. One shared area, no small-dog side.
  • Playground
  • Splash pad
  • Off-leash dog park
  • Restrooms
  • Boardwalk
  • Fishing
  • Events and festivals

Small for how busy it gets, which is the point: the splash pad, playground, lakeside boardwalk and the Amphitheatre and Cultural Center all sit within a two-minute walk of the restaurants on City Walk Lane.

Best for: Toddlers, Date night, Festivals, Dogs.

Local tip: The splash pad runs dawn to dusk but stays off on days the forecast high is under 70°F. On festival weekends the lawns close and Center Lake Lane itself can be shut to cars.

Source checked October 5, 2026

407-971-5591Source: City of Oviedo, Parks and Facilities
City park

Riverside Park

Rippin' Riverside Skate Park

Tennis, pickleball, indoor racquetball, a skate park and a quiet path to the Little Econ.

1600 Lockwood Blvd, Oviedo, FL 32765Directions

Hours
Office and courts building: Mon to Fri 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed Sun. Skate park opens Sun 2 to 8:45 p.m.
Cost
City pickleball rates are posted at $3 resident/$5 non-resident per visit; confirm outdoor-court charges with staff.
Dogs
Leashed
  • Tennis
  • Pickleball
  • Racquetball
  • Skate park
  • Pool
  • Playground
  • Pavilion
  • Restrooms
  • Sports fields
  • Trails
  • Grills

Four lighted hard tennis courts, pickleball, two air-conditioned racquetball courts, a 30,000-square-foot lighted skate and BMX park, a bandshell, and the city's 55+ senior center all share one site on Lockwood. The three outdoor pickleball courts are reserved for ages 55+ Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–1 p.m.; ask about access outside that block.

Best for: Teens, Racquet sports, Seniors.

Local tip: Helmets with chin straps are required in the skate park for anyone under 18. The 1.3-mile woods walk to the Little Econlockhatchee starts behind the back field and the trailhead is unmarked; look for the worn path.

Source checked October 5, 2026

choose a pickleball court and session
407-971-5575Source: City of Oviedo, Parks and Activities
City park

Oviedo Sports Complex

Twelve ballfields, batting cages and a playground for the siblings.

1251 E Broadway St, Oviedo, FL 32765Directions

Hours
Dawn to 10 p.m. daily
Parking
Free lots; expect overflow on tournament weekends
Cost
Free to enter; tournaments may charge admission
Dogs
Leashed
  • Sports fields
  • Playground
  • Restrooms
  • Events and festivals

Four adult softball and eight youth baseball fields with Bermuda turf and electronic scoreboards, plus batting cages, concessions and air-conditioned restrooms. Home turf for Oviedo Little League and Oviedo Babe Ruth.

Best for: Youth baseball, Softball, Tournaments.

Local tip: A paved trail connecting the complex to Shane Kelly Park was funded by a state Recreational Trails grant in 2023. Check the city's parks page for its status before you plan a walk between the two.

Source checked October 5, 2026

407-971-5575Source: City of Oviedo, Parks and Facilities
City park

Shane Kelly Park

Lighted soccer fields, a paved loop around the pond and an outdoor fitness circuit.

1555 N State Road 426, Oviedo, FL 32765Directions

Hours
Dawn to 10 p.m. daily
Parking
Free, plenty of it
Cost
Free
Dogs
Leashed in the park; off-leash next door at The Bark Park
  • Sports fields
  • Playground
  • Restrooms
  • Trails
  • Fitness circuit
  • Pavilion
  • Fishing

Built on a former harness-racing track. Lighted soccer and flag-football fields, a playground, picnic tables, an ADA-accessible outdoor fitness circuit under a shade structure (added 2023), and an eight-foot-wide hard-surface loop around the pond that fills with ducks and turtles.

Best for: Soccer, Walking loops, Workouts.

Local tip: There is very little shade on the loop or the fields. Go early or late in summer, and keep dogs and kids back from the pond edge; every Oviedo pond can have an alligator.

Source checked October 5, 2026

407-971-5575Source: City of Oviedo, Parks and Facilities
City park

The Bark Park at Shane Kelly Park

Oviedo's big off-leash park: lake views, agility gear, a tiki hut and dog fountains.

499 Waggin Trail, Oviedo, FL 32765Directions

Hours
Dawn to dusk, except Tue and Fri when it opens at 9 a.m.
Parking
Free lot at the park
Cost
Free
Dogs
Off-leash. Dogs must be vaccinated.
  • Off-leash dog park
  • Restrooms
  • Trails

Fenced off-leash areas bordering a lake, with a walking trail, agility equipment, fire hydrants, benches, canine water fountains and a shaded dog tiki hut. Restrooms for humans are at the concessions building.

Best for: Dogs, Dog people.

Local tip: Bring your own water bowl anyway. Keep dogs out of the lake: the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission's standing advice is that pets near fresh water look like prey to alligators.

Source checked October 5, 2026

407-971-5565Source: City of Oviedo, Parks and Facilities
City parkabout 34 acres

Round Lake Park

The best racquet-sport park in town, with a boardwalk and fishing pier on the lake.

891 E Broadway St, Oviedo, FL 32765Directions

Hours
Dawn to 10 p.m. daily
Cost
Confirm court-use charges; pavilions can be rented
Dogs
Leashed
  • Tennis
  • Basketball
  • Racquetball
  • Playground
  • Boardwalk
  • Fishing
  • Pavilion
  • Restrooms
  • Grills
  • Pickleball

Lighted covered basketball courts, lighted tennis courts, outdoor racquetball, two playgrounds, picnic shelters, grills, and a boardwalk out to a fishing pier on Round Lake. The meeting building was renovated and its restrooms are open to the public. Bring your own pickleball nets and check the reserved-court calendar on the building next to the courts.

Best for: Basketball, Fishing.

Source checked October 5, 2026

choose a pickleball court and session
407-971-5575Source: City of Oviedo, Parks and Activities
City park

Sweetwater Park

A shady neighborhood park with a long boardwalk through the wetland.

201 E Magnolia St, Oviedo, FL 32765Directions

Parking
Free lot
Cost
Free
Dogs
Leashed
  • Playground
  • Tennis
  • Basketball
  • Boardwalk
  • Pavilion
  • Restrooms
  • Grills
  • Good shade
  • Fishing

Two lighted tennis courts with a practice wall, a basketball court, a pavilion and picnic shelters, a playground with a separate tot area, restrooms, grills, and an elevated boardwalk that runs several hundred yards through the Sweetwater Creek wetland.

Best for: Summer playground, Tennis practice, Short walks.

Local tip: One of the better-shaded playgrounds in Oviedo for July and August. The boardwalk is a mosquito zone at dusk, so bring repellent or go midday.

Source checked October 5, 2026

407-971-5565Source: City of Oviedo, Parks and Facilities
City park

Long Lake Park

Football and soccer fields, a fishing dock and a sidewalk loop around the lake.

1350 Carolyn Dr, Oviedo, FL 32765Directions

Hours
Dawn to dusk
Parking
Free lot; fills on fall practice nights
Cost
Free
Dogs
Leashed
  • Sports fields
  • Playground
  • Basketball
  • Fishing
  • Pavilion
  • Restrooms
  • Trails

A football field and soccer fields with bleachers, a basketball court, playground, pavilions, restrooms and a fishing dock on the 74-acre lake. A partly shaded sidewalk loops the water. Oviedo Pop Warner practices here in the fall, and the Healthy Kids Running Series uses it on fall Sundays.

Best for: Youth football, Fishing, Stroller loops.

Local tip: The fishing dock is the quietest spot in the park on a weekday morning. Weeknights in September and October belong to Pop Warner, so expect a full lot after 5 p.m.

Source checked October 5, 2026

407-971-5575Source: Oviedo Community News, parks guide
City park

Boston Hill Park

Lighted basketball, a youth ballfield and a small shaded playground near downtown.

777 S Central Ave, Oviedo, FL 32765Directions

Hours
7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Parking
Free lot
Cost
Free
Dogs
Leashed
  • Basketball
  • Sports fields
  • Playground
  • Pavilion
  • Restrooms
  • Good shade

Lighted basketball courts, a youth baseball field, horseshoe pits, picnic shelters, restrooms and a playground that was replaced in January 2022. More of a courts-and-ballfield spot than a stroll-around park.

Best for: Pickup basketball, Little League practice, Quick playground stop.

Local tip: The playground is small but well shaded, which makes it a better midday stop for little kids than the bigger open parks.

Source checked October 5, 2026

407-971-5560Source: City of Oviedo, Parks and Facilities
City park

Solary Park

Downtown watershed park with boardwalk and rain gardens

239 Geneva Dr, Oviedo, FL 32765Directions

Hours
Open daily; exact closing time is not listed by the city.
Parking
Parking lot at 161 E. Franklin Street.
  • Boardwalk
  • Trails
  • Pavilion
  • Restrooms
  • Bike friendly

Boardwalk, walking path, rain gardens, pavilion, water, restrooms and a bicycle fix-it station. The city lists Florida Trail access, and the downtown streets connect toward the Cross Seminole Trail; check that guide for the full route.

Best for: Quiet boardwalk, Downtown stop.

Source checked October 17, 2026

407-971-5565Source: City of Oviedo, Parks and Facilities
City park

River Woods Park

River Woods Disc Golf Course

Oviedo's only full 18-hole disc golf course, free, in the woods off Alafaya Woods.

1050 McCully Ct, Oviedo, FL 32765Directions

Hours
Dawn to dusk
Parking
Free lot
Cost
Free
Dogs
Leashed
  • Disc golf
  • Trails
  • Pavilion
  • Good shade

An 18-hole disc golf course opened here on April 26, 2024, with two baskets per hole and dual tee pads on most holes, cut through tight wooded fairways. There are benches, a pavilion and picnic tables.

Best for: Disc golf, Wooded walks.

Local tip: The course is tight and tree-lined; bring discs you can control rather than distance drivers. No restrooms are listed at this park.

Source checked October 5, 2026

407-971-5575Source: City of Oviedo, disc golf press release
City park

Friendship Park

Lawton House

The best pure playground in the city, under the oaks next to the Lawton House.

200 W Broadway St, Oviedo, FL 32765Directions

Hours
Dawn to dusk
Parking
Small lot off Lawton Ave on the east side of the park
Cost
Free
Dogs
Leashed
  • Playground
  • Pavilion
  • Restrooms
  • Good shade
  • Events and festivals

Two playgrounds, including a big three-level structure with tunnel slides, fire poles and climbing nets, plus a pavilion, picnic shelters and restrooms, all under mature oaks beside Lawton Elementary. The 1890 Lawton House next door is the Oviedo Historical Society's museum.

Best for: Ages 5 to 12, Farmers market Saturdays.

Local tip: Come on the first Saturday of the month (except July): the Oviedo Farmers Market runs 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Lawton House grounds and the museum opens. Right after school lets out the playground is packed.

Source checked October 5, 2026

407-971-5565Source: City of Oviedo, Parks and Facilities
City park

Oviedo Gym & Aquatic Facility

Oviedo Aquatic Center

The Big Kahuna lap pool, seasonal Splash Zone and city gym at 148 Oviedo Boulevard.

148 Oviedo Blvd, Oviedo, FL 32765Directions

Hours
Posted lap-pool schedule runs through Oct. 25, 2026; check current public-lane availability. Splash Zone closed for the season.
Cost
Daily swim $6 residents, $9 non-residents
  • Pool
  • Splash pad
  • Fitness circuit

The city describes Big Kahuna as a year-round lap pool, subject to weather, maintenance and repairs. The Splash Zone is closed for the season; the city says to check back in April for opening days and hours.

Best for: Lap swimming, Swim lessons, Hot afternoons.

Local tip: Call the rain-out line at 407-971-5587 before leaving. Daily admission has no refunds or rain checks; same-day return is allowed if the pool reopens.

Source checked October 18, 2026

plan a pool or Splash Zone visit
407-971-5568Source: City of Oviedo, Aquatics
City parkabout 300 acres

Twin Rivers Golf Club

city-owned public course

The public golf course the city bought in 2017 to keep it from becoming houses.

2100 Ekana Dr, Oviedo, FL 32765Directions

Hours
Tee times daily; call the pro shop
Parking
Free lot
Cost
Greens fees vary by day and time
Dogs
No
  • Golf
  • Restrooms

A Joe Lee-designed 18-hole course threading the Twin Rivers neighborhood. The City of Oviedo bought the roughly 300 acres in March 2017 for about $5 million to block residential redevelopment, paid for with a small stormwater fee.

Best for: Golf, Green space.

Local tip: In January 2026 the mayor asked residents for input on the course's long-term future, so its use may change. The course opened in 1989.

Source checked October 5, 2026

407-366-1211Source: City of Oviedo, Twin Rivers Golf Course
County landabout 3 acres

Overlook Park

Clifton Springs

County boardwalk and pavilion on Lake Jesup

1988 Spring Ave, Oviedo, FL 32765Directions

Hours
8 a.m. to dusk daily
Parking
Small lot at the end of a residential street
  • Boardwalk
  • Pavilion
  • Fishing
  • Grills

Seminole County park at 1988 Spring Avenue, open daily 8 a.m. to dusk. Boardwalk, fishing and wildlife viewing, and a pavilion with BBQ grills under mature oaks. Alligator and osprey sightings are possible.

Best for: Lake Jesup boardwalk, Oak-shaded pavilion.

Local tip: Restrooms are not listed; confirm availability with the county before relying on them.

Source checked October 17, 2026

Visitor guide
407-665-2001Source: Seminole County, Overlook Park
Econ River Wilderness Area, Oviedo, FL
County landabout 240 acres

Econ River Wilderness Area

240 acres of hammock and flatwoods ending at a bluff over the Econlockhatchee.

3795 Old Lockwood Rd, Oviedo, FL 32765Directions

Hours
Sunrise to sunset
Parking
Free gravel trailhead lot
Cost
Free
Dogs
Leashed at all times (county natural-lands rule)
  • Trails
  • Bike friendly

About three miles of natural-surface trail: a main loop out to the river bluff through oak hammock, pine flatwoods and sandhill, plus a half-mile yellow-blazed flatwoods loop. Count on about an hour and a half to the river and back.

Best for: Real woods close to home, Trail running, Birding.

Local tip: The river sections flood after heavy rain and the sand bakes in summer, so go early. There are no restrooms. Bikes are allowed on designated trails.

Source checked October 5, 2026

407-665-2211Source: Seminole County Natural Lands, Econ River trail guide
Black Hammock Wilderness Area, Oviedo, FL
County landabout 700 acres

Black Hammock Wilderness Area

The best boardwalk hike in Oviedo: 700 acres of swamp, hammock and scrub above Lake Jesup.

3276 Howard Ave, Oviedo, FL 32765Directions

Hours
Sunrise to sunset
Parking
Free trailhead lot
Cost
Free
Dogs
Leashed at all times
  • Trails
  • Boardwalk

The blue-blazed main loop is a 4.5-mile lollipop that crosses long boardwalks through hydric hammock and hardwood swamp before climbing into pine flatwoods and sand pine scrub. Budget about two hours.

Best for: A real hike, Photography, Cool-season mornings.

Local tip: Boardwalks are slick after rain and the scrub section is full sun. No restrooms at the trailhead.

Source checked October 5, 2026

Visitor guide
407-665-2211Source: Seminole County Natural Lands, Black Hammock trail guide
Lake Jesup Conservation Area, East Tract, Oviedo, FL
District land

Lake Jesup Conservation Area, East Tract

the observation tower

A 2.1-mile loop across old Black Hammock farm fields to a tower over Lake Jesup.

3205 Elm St, Oviedo, FL 32765Directions

Hours
Open daily; check the district page for gate times
Parking
Free trailhead lot
Cost
Free
Dogs
Leashed
  • Trails
  • Bike friendly
  • Fishing

St. Johns River Water Management District land. The East Tract is the only Lake Jesup trail with an observation tower, and the flat levee loop is the best of the three tracts for bikes. From SR 426 take Van Arsdale north, Florida Avenue west, then Elm Street north.

Best for: Bikes, Big-sky views, Winter birding.

Local tip: There is zero shade on the levee and no restrooms. Bring water, go early, and expect serious mosquitoes at dusk.

Source checked October 5, 2026

386-329-4404Source: St. Johns River Water Management District, Lake Jesup
Little Big Econ State Forest, Oviedo, FL
State forestabout 11,696 acres

Little Big Econ State Forest

Barr Street and Lockwood trailheads

Oviedo's marquee hike: the Florida Trail along the Econ bluffs, plus horse and bike trails.

951 Barr St, Oviedo, FL 32765Directions

Hours
Sunrise to sunset
Parking
Barr Street Trailhead, 951 Barr Street, Oviedo
Cost
Individual day pass $2; ages 0–6 free; annual pass $45 for up to 6 people
Dogs
Check route-specific pet restrictions with the forest manager
  • Trails
  • Bike friendly
  • Horse trails
  • Camping
  • Kayak or boat launch

The forest's published hiking total is 15.6 miles and the mountain-bike network total is 10.5 miles. A repair notice effective October 1, 2026 closes bridges connecting Little Big Econ and Charles H. Bronson near Brumley Road; check the official notice before using those crossings. The full guide has current route and dog details.

Best for: The Florida Trail, Mountain biking, Horses, Primitive camping.

Local tip: Buy the pass online before arriving; office does not sell passes.

Source checked October 17, 2026

Visitor guide
407-971-3500Source: Florida Forest Service, Little Big Econ State Forest
Chuluota Wilderness Area, Oviedo, FL
County landabout 625 acresChuluota

Chuluota Wilderness Area

Two loops and a stretch of the Florida Trail through 625 acres east of town.

3895 Curryville Rd, Chuluota, FL 32766Directions

Hours
Sunrise to sunset
Parking
Free trailhead lot
Cost
Free
Dogs
Leashed at all times
  • Trails

An East Loop of 2.7 miles and a West Loop of 2.6 miles, joined by roughly two miles of the orange-blazed Florida Trail, through mesic hammock, pond-pine flatwoods, hardwood swamp and sand pine scrub. The trail continues south into Charles H. Bronson State Forest.

Best for: Longer hikes, Linking to Bronson State Forest.

Local tip: The wettest trails in the area after summer rains; in the rainy season expect standing water on the low sections.

Source checked October 5, 2026

407-665-2211Source: Seminole County Natural Lands
County landabout 180 acresGeneva

Geneva Wilderness Area

Ed Yarborough Nature Center

A gentle 1.5-mile loop, a nature center and a spur to the Econ River footbridge.

County Road 426, Geneva, FL 32732Directions

Hours
Dawn to dusk. Nature center opens the first Saturday of the month, 9 a.m. to noon.
Parking
Free lot
Cost
Free
Dogs
Leashed at all times
  • Trails
  • Camping
  • Pavilion

The red-blazed loop takes 30 to 45 minutes. A spur runs south into the Little Big Econ's Demetree Tract and the Flagler Trail to the Econ River footbridge, about three hours round trip. Camping directories list designated group camping here; confirm with the county at 407-665-2211 before you plan on it.

Best for: Kids' first hike, Scout groups, Nature programs.

Local tip: The easiest trail on this page for small kids, and the nature center's first-Saturday workshops are free.

Source checked October 5, 2026

407-665-2211Source: Seminole County, Geneva Wilderness Area
County landabout 50 acresChuluota

Lake Mills Park

50 acres of cypress in Chuluota.

1301 Tropical Ave, Chuluota, FL 32766Directions

Hours
8 a.m. to dusk; permitted camping excepted
Parking
Parking shown on county map; confirm current charges
Cost
Individual campsites $15 plus tax per night; group site $30 plus tax per night. Confirm day-use charges with the county.
Dogs
Confirm current pet rules with the county
  • Playground
  • Boardwalk
  • Kayak or boat launch
  • Fishing
  • Pavilion
  • Camping
  • Fitness circuit
  • Restrooms

A playground, boardwalk and trails through cypress swamp, beach volleyball, a canoe and kayak launch, a fitness circuit, pavilions, a fishing pier and a 14-site tent campground with one group site and no hookups.

Best for: Camping, Kayaking, Family picnics.

Local tip: Reserve campsites through Seminole County.

Source checked October 18, 2026

Lake Mills day visits and tent camping
407-665-2190Source: Seminole County, Lake Mills Park map
Black Hammock Fish Camp & Marina, Oviedo, FL
Private

Black Hammock Fish Camp & Marina

Black Hammock Adventures

The Lake Jesup boat ramp, airboat rides, a restaurant and a tiki bar at the end of the road.

2356 Black Hammock Fish Camp Rd, Oviedo, FL 32765Directions

Hours
Airboat rides six days a week; restaurant and bar hours on their site
Parking
Free, across from the restaurant
Cost
Boat launch $10. Airboat rides priced per person.
Dogs
Ask at the dock
  • Kayak or boat launch
  • Fishing
  • Restrooms
  • Food on site

A fish camp on Lake Jesup since 1970. Launch your own boat for $10, book a 30- or 60-minute airboat tour, see the gator pit, and eat at the Black Hammock Restaurant or the Lazy Gator Bar on the water.

Best for: Boating Lake Jesup, Airboats, Visitors from out of town.

Local tip: Sunset airboat rides sell out on winter weekends. Mosquitoes arrive at dusk; so do the gators along the shoreline, which is the point of the ride.

Source checked October 5, 2026

407-365-1244Source: The Black HammockDirectory listing
Econ Outfitters, Oviedo, FL
PrivateChuluota

Econ Outfitters

Econlockhatchee River paddling

Kayak and canoe rentals with a shuttle for the eight-mile Econ run.

2000 Snow Hill Rd, Chuluota, FL 32766Directions

Hours
By reservation
Parking
At the outfitter
Cost
Boats priced per rental with shuttle included; shuttle-only for your own boat about $35
Dogs
Ask
  • Kayak or boat launch

The classic trip is the Econlockhatchee River Paddling Trail from the CR 419 bridge down to Snow Hill Road, about eight miles and four hours, almost all of it inside Little Big Econ State Forest with high sand bluffs and cypress.

Best for: Paddling the Econ, First-time kayakers.

Local tip: Check the river gauge first. Below about 13 feet you will be pulling over deadfall, and below about 11 feet the run is impractical.

Source checked October 5, 2026

Source: Econ Outfitters
Lukas Nursery & Butterfly Encounter, Oviedo, FL
Private

Lukas Nursery & Butterfly Encounter

A walk-through butterfly conservatory at the old family nursery on Slavia Road.

1909 Slavia Rd, Oviedo, FL 32765Directions

Hours
Butterfly Encounter 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, last entry 3:30
Parking
Free lot
Cost
Butterfly Encounter $8.95; under 3 free
Dogs
No
  • Restrooms

A garden center with a screened butterfly conservatory where zebra longwings, the Florida state butterfly, land on your sleeve. It is a nursery, not a u-pick farm.

Best for: Rainy-day backup, Preschoolers, Grandparents.

Local tip: Mornings are calmer and the butterflies are more active once the sun warms the enclosure.

Source checked October 5, 2026

407-365-6163Source: Lukas Nursery

Oviedo trails, with the numbers

Oviedo sits where the Florida Trail crosses the Cross Seminole Trail, with the Little Big Econ on its back door. Here is each route by length, surface, difficulty, start point and fee.

Back to the parks
  1. Cross Seminole Trail

    Cross Seminole Trail

    Regional trail from Winter Park to Lake Mary, passing through Oviedo. Start: Solary Park, 239 Geneva Drive, is the downtown street connector; Black Hammock trailhead is at 1571 E. State Road 434, Winter Springs.

    Length
    23-mile regional route
    Surface
    Paved asphalt
    Difficulty
    Depends on chosen distance
    Route
    Point to point
    Fee
    Not stated on the county trail page
    Dogs
    Check current manager rules
    • Road bikes
    • Paved walks

    Black Hammock trailhead lists restrooms and water. Solary Park has restrooms and a water as park amenities, not a trailhead listing. Use the Cross Seminole Trail guide for the exact connection and current access.

    Source checked October 17, 2026

    Visitor guideSource: Seminole County, Cross Seminole Trail
  2. Florida Trail in Little Big Econ

    Florida Trail in Little Big Econ

    Little Big Econ State Forest. Start: Barr Street Trailhead, 951 Barr Street, is the default start; Lockwood is an option on the official map.

    Length
    Choose a distance using the official map
    Surface
    Natural singletrack with boardwalk creek crossings
    Difficulty
    Moderate
    Route
    Point to point, or out and back
    Fee
    $2 individual day pass; ages 0–6 free
    Dogs
    Check route-specific pet restrictions with the forest manager
    • The classic Oviedo hike
    • Trail running

    Unpaved Florida Trail route through Little Big Econ. The October 1, 2026 closure affects bridges connecting Little Big Econ and Charles H. Bronson; check the official closure notice before choosing a route. The full guide has current route and dog details.

    Source checked October 17, 2026

    Visitor guideSource: Florida Forest Service
  3. Kolokee Trail loop

    Kolokee Trail loop

    Little Big Econ State Forest. Start: 951 Barr St.

    Length
    5.2 published, including the access stem
    Surface
    Natural, with a footbridge
    Difficulty
    Moderate
    Route
    Loop
    Fee
    $2 individual day pass; ages 0–6 free
    Dogs
    Leashed
    • A half-day hike
    • Florida Trailwalker credit

    Unpaved mapped loop using the orange and white trail route; check current closure notices before heading out. The full guide has the route map and access details.

    Source checked October 17, 2026

    Visitor guideSource: Florida Forest Service, Kolokee Trail map
  4. Flagler Trail

    Flagler Trail

    Geneva Wilderness Area south to Snow Hill Road. Start: Geneva Wilderness Area or 5285 Snow Hill Rd.

    Length
    Several miles; ride or hike any segment
    Surface
    Old railroad grade, packed sand
    Difficulty
    Easy to moderate
    Route
    Point to point
    Fee
    Free at Geneva Wilderness Area; $2 a day at Snow Hill Road
    Dogs
    Leashed
    • Horses
    • Gravel bikes
    • Hikers who want flat

    The old Flagler railroad bed, now a multi-use trail that crosses the Econ on a footbridge. Shared by hikers, cyclists and riders, so give horses the right of way.

    Source checked October 5, 2026

    Source: Florida Forest Service

  5. Little Big Econ mountain-bike trails

    South side of the forest. Start: Jones East trailhead, Snow Hill Rd.

    Length
    About 12 mi of singletrack
    Surface
    Natural singletrack
    Difficulty
    Moderate to hard
    Route
    Network of loops
    Fee
    $2 per person
    Dogs
    Leashed
    • Mountain bikes

    Locally named loops like Two Bridges and Ditch of Doom. The closest real singletrack to Oviedo and UCF.

    Source checked October 5, 2026

    Source: Florida Forest Service
  6. Black Hammock Wilderness Area loop

    Black Hammock Wilderness Area loop

    Black Hammock, north Oviedo. Start: 3276 Howard Ave.

    Length
    4.5 mi lollipop
    Surface
    Boardwalk and natural trail
    Difficulty
    Moderate for the distance; flat
    Route
    Lollipop
    Fee
    Free
    Dogs
    Leashed
    • Boardwalk lovers
    • Photographers

    Long boardwalks through swamp and hammock, then scrub above Lake Jesup. About two hours.

    Source checked October 5, 2026

    Source: Seminole County Natural Lands
  7. Econ River Wilderness Area trails

    Econ River Wilderness Area trails

    Old Lockwood Road, south Oviedo. Start: 3795 Old Lockwood Rd.

    Length
    About 3 mi total; main loop to the river plus a 0.5 mi flatwoods loop
    Surface
    Natural, sandy and rooty
    Difficulty
    Easy
    Route
    Loops
    Fee
    Free
    Dogs
    Leashed
    • After-work hikes
    • Kids who can walk a couple of miles

    The river bluff is the payoff. Floods after heavy rain.

    Source checked October 5, 2026

    Source: Seminole County Natural Lands
  8. Lake Jesup Conservation Area, East Tract loop

    Lake Jesup Conservation Area, East Tract loop

    Black Hammock, north Oviedo. Start: 3205 Elm St.

    Length
    2.1 mi loop
    Surface
    Grass levee and farm road
    Difficulty
    Easy
    Route
    Loop
    Fee
    Free
    Dogs
    Leashed
    • Bikes
    • Birders
    • Sunrise

    Flat, open and the only Lake Jesup trail with an observation tower. No shade at all.

    Source checked October 5, 2026

    Source: St. Johns River Water Management District

  9. Chuluota Wilderness Area loops

    Chuluota, east of Oviedo. Start: 3895 Curryville Rd.

    Length
    East loop 2.7 mi, West loop 2.6 mi, Florida Trail link about 2.2 mi
    Surface
    Natural
    Difficulty
    Easy to moderate; wet in summer
    Route
    Loops
    Fee
    Free
    Dogs
    Leashed
    • Long dry-season hikes

    Links south into Charles H. Bronson State Forest for a full-day option.

    Source checked October 5, 2026

    Source: Seminole County Natural Lands

  10. Geneva Wilderness Area loop

    Geneva, north of Oviedo. Start: County Road 426, Geneva.

    Length
    1.5 mi loop; spur to the Econ footbridge about 3 hours round trip
    Surface
    Natural
    Difficulty
    Easy
    Route
    Loop with spur
    Fee
    Free
    Dogs
    Leashed
    • Small kids
    • A first hike

    Red-blazed, 30 to 45 minutes. The spur joins the Flagler Trail.

    Source checked October 5, 2026

    Source: Seminole County Natural Lands

  11. Shane Kelly Park pond loop

    North SR 426. Start: 1555 N State Road 426.

    Length
    Short paved loop around the pond
    Surface
    Paved, 8 feet wide
    Difficulty
    Easy
    Route
    Loop
    Fee
    Free
    Dogs
    Leashed
    • Wheelchairs and strollers
    • Lunch-break laps

    Flat and fully accessible; no shade.

    Source checked October 5, 2026

    Source: City of Oviedo

  12. Solary Park boardwalk

    Downtown Oviedo. Start: 239 Geneva Dr.

    Length
    Distance not listed on the city page
    Surface
    Paved path and elevated boardwalk
    Difficulty
    Easy
    Route
    Walking path and boardwalk
    Fee
    Not stated on the city page
    Dogs
    Check current manager rules
    • Quiet boardwalk
    • Downtown stop

    Boardwalk, walking path, rain gardens, pavilion, water, restrooms and a bicycle fix-it station. The city lists Florida Trail access, and the downtown streets connect toward the Cross Seminole Trail; check that guide for the full route.

    Source checked October 17, 2026

    Visitor guideSource: City of Oviedo

  13. Little Econlockhatchee path at Riverside Park

    Lockwood Blvd. Start: Behind the back field, 1600 Lockwood Blvd.

    Length
    1.3 mi
    Surface
    Natural
    Difficulty
    Easy
    Route
    Out and back
    Fee
    Free
    Dogs
    Leashed
    • A quick woods fix

    A tree-trunk bridge and a little cypress-root cascade. The trailhead is unmarked and easy to miss.

    Source checked October 5, 2026

    Source: AllTrails, Little Econlockhatchee
  14. Econlockhatchee River Paddling Trail

    Econlockhatchee River Paddling Trail

    CR 419 bridge to Snow Hill Road. Start: CR 419 bridge, northeast lot; walk about 100 yards to the launch.

    Length
    About 8 mi, roughly 4 hours
    Surface
    River
    Difficulty
    Moderate; depends on water level
    Route
    Point to point; shuttle needed
    Fee
    Free to launch; outfitter shuttle extra
    Dogs
    Your call and your boat
    • Kayaks and canoes
    • Wildlife

    Nearly all of it runs inside Little Big Econ State Forest. Below about 13 feet on the gauge expect deadfall pullovers; below about 11 feet, skip it.

    Source checked October 5, 2026

    Source: Florida DEP, Econlockhatchee paddling guide

Dogs

Oviedo dog parks: where your dog can go

  • Off leash, two places. The Bark Park at Shane Kelly Park, 499 Waggin Trail, dawn to dusk (opens 9 a.m. Tue and Fri), with a lake, agility gear and dog fountains. And the smaller Center Lake dog park downtown, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., one shared area with no small-dog side.
  • Leashed everywhere else. City parks, Seminole County natural lands and the Cross Seminole Trail all require a leash. Little Big Econ State Forest caps the leash at 10 feet.
  • Not in the water. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission's advice for every Oviedo lake, pond and river: keep pets away from the edge and never let them swim. Lake Jesup in particular is one of the most alligator-dense lakes in the state.
  • Dog-friendly events. Bark & Brew at Center Lake Park each fall, and many of the festivals there allow leashed dogs. The events calendar marks which ones.
  • Searching for a "Twin Rivers dog park"? It does not exist; Twin Rivers is the city-owned golf course. The two off-leash parks above are the only ones in Oviedo.

Kids

Where to take the kids in Oviedo

  • Under 5: the free splash pad and playground at Center Lake Park (splash pad stays off when the forecast high is under 70°F), then the shaded tot area at Sweetwater Park.
  • Ages 5 to 12: Friendship Park has the biggest climbing structure in the city. Round Lake Park has two playgrounds under the oaks and a fishing pier.
  • Teens: Rippin' Riverside Skate Park, $5 for residents, helmets with chin straps required under 18. Pickleball and basketball at Round Lake.
  • Hot afternoons: the Splash Zone and the Big Kahuna pool at the Aquatic Facility, $6 residents and $9 non-residents a day.
  • A first hike: the 1.5-mile loop at Geneva Wilderness Area, or the boardwalks at Solary Park downtown.
  • Sundays in fall: the Healthy Kids Running Series at Long Lake Park; first Saturdays, the farmers market next to Friendship Park.

Rent a pavilion

City of Oviedo picnic pavilions at every park except Friendship Park. Members hold a $30-a-year resident recreation membership ($60 non-resident).

Swipe sideways for all five columns.

City of Oviedo pavilion rental fees by rental block and residency
BlockResident, memberResidentNon-resident, memberNon-resident
4 hours$90$115$135$160
8 hours$175$200$200$225

Amphitheatre and Cultural Center at Center Lake Park: 4-hour block $250, 8-hour block $500, the whole park $1,000, small stage and lawn $100. Call 407-971-5591.

Rentals: 407-971-5591City rental pageAmphitheatre rates

Fees from the city's published schedule, checked October 5, 2026. Resident rates need proof you live inside city limits; an Oviedo mailing address is not enough. How to check.

Join a league

  • City youth and adult sports

    Youth basketball, volleyball and flag football; adult basketball, flag football and softball. Register through the city's TeamSideline page.

  • Oviedo Little League

    Baseball and softball, ages 4 and up, at 492 King St next to Oviedo High and at the Sports Complex.

  • Oviedo Babe Ruth

    Baseball ages 4 to 18 at the Oviedo Sports Complex.

  • Oviedo Lions Pop Warner

    Football and cheer, flag through 13U. Practices at Long Lake Park, Shane Kelly Park, Oviedo High and Jackson Heights Middle.

  • Recreation registration

    Swim lessons, camps, classes and pavilion rentals through the city's WebTrac portal.

In the parks this season

The next things happening at a park, from the events calendar.

Every event

Before you go: the Florida part

Five things that shape every outdoor plan here, with the agency that says so.

  1. 1

    Afternoon lightning, May to September

    Sea-breeze storms build most afternoons. If you can hear thunder you are in range; wait 30 minutes after the last clap, and never shelter in an open pavilion or under a tree. Hike early.

    Source: National Weather Service
  2. 2

    Alligators in every lake and river

    Lake Jesup is one of the most gator-dense lakes in Florida, and the Econ, Round Lake, Long Lake and the park ponds all have them. Keep pets leashed and away from the water's edge, never let dogs swim in fresh water, and swim only in the Aquatic Facility pool. Nuisance gator line: 866-FWC-GATOR.

    Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
  3. 3

    Mosquitoes at dawn and dusk

    Worst on the boardwalks at Sweetwater and Black Hammock, the Lake Jesup levee and anywhere near the Econ. Seminole County recommends DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535 and long sleeves; sonic repellers do not work.

    Source: Seminole County Mosquito Control
  4. 4

    Flooding on the river trails

    The Econ River Wilderness Area, the Florida Trail bluffs, the Little Econ path at Riverside, Chuluota Wilderness Area and the Black Hammock boardwalks all go under or get slick after heavy rain. Hurricane Ian in 2022 pushed the Econ to record levels and nearly put the CR 419 bridge under water.

    Source: Oviedo Community News, Hurricane Ian coverage
  5. 5

    Lovebugs, twice a year

    Late April into May and again late August into September, for four or five weeks. Harmless, but they coat cars and trail runners. Populations have dropped in recent years.

    Source: UF/IFAS

Before the trail, after the park

Local places next to the parks, from the I Love Oviedo directory.

Oviedo Park Pub

Neighborhood Bar / Sports Bar · Oviedo on the Park (The Food Factory)

No reviews yet

Central bar of The Food Factory food hall with draft beer, a bourbon collection, 15 TVs and a 140-inch screen, plus trivia, bingo and live music nights.

(407) 337-3501View listing →

Flakes & Fables

Bakery / Café · Downtown Oviedo (Oviedo Shopping Center)

4.8(181)

Family-owned bakery and café near downtown Oviedo baking stuffed croissants, empanadas and fruit tarts alongside coffee, matcha and refreshers.

(321) 765-4241View listing →

Parkside Artisans

Gift Shop & Art Studio · Oviedo on the Park

No reviews yet

Art studio and handmade-goods marketplace in Oviedo on the Park that sells work by regional artisans and runs beginner-friendly classes in painting, resin, crochet and jewelry.

(407) 494-4337View listing →
More things to do in Oviedo

Hours changed? A new splash pad? Tell us.

Every entry links to its official source and shows its source-check date. If something is off, we will fix it against the source.

Report a change

I Love Oviedo is an independent community site, not the City of Oviedo, Seminole County or the Florida Forest Service. Hours and fees come from each agency's published pages and were checked October 5, 2026; follow the source link for anything official. Photos: Econlockhatchee River from the Florida Trail bridge. Photo: Trougnouf, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons · Creek with cypress and Spanish moss along the Cross Seminole Trail. Photo: Mikasb, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons · Great blue heron, snowy egret and shorebirds on Lake Jesup. Photo: gary_leavens, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons · "Greetings from Oviedo" mural at Oviedo on the Park. Photo: Connor Williams, via Wikimedia Commons · American alligator basking on the Econlockhatchee River. Photo: Trougnouf, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons · Golden marsh grass at Black Hammock. Photo: Hammy365, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons · Panorama of Lake Jesup from the SJRWMD observation tower. Photo: OwenCompher, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons · Kolokee Trail footbridge, Little Big Econ State Forest. Photo: BoFTA2023, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons · CR 419 roadside heading into Chuluota. Photo: formulanone from Huntsville, United States, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons · Airboats racing across Lake Jesup at Black Hammock Airboat Rides. Photo: Hammy365, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons · Zebra longwing butterfly (Florida state butterfly). Photo: Rizka, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons · Cross Seminole Trail trailhead sign under live oaks. Photo: Mikasb, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons · Boardwalk on the Florida Trail near the Lockwood Blvd trailhead. Photo: BoFTA2023, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons · Equestrian trail through pine flatwoods, Little Big Econ State Forest. Photo: Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons · Cattle on the banks of the Econlockhatchee River. Photo: Trougnouf, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Things to do around the parks