Balm Boyette Scrub Nature Preserve - Lithia, FL
Balm Boyette Scrub Nature Preserve: Pet-Friendly Trails in Lithia, Florida
Balm Boyette Scrub Nature Preserve offers an outdoor experience for nature lovers and dog owners alike in Lithia, Florida. The park is well-known for its extensive mountain biking and hiking trails, which wind through beautiful Florida scrubland, palm trees, and scenic wildlife areas. This preserve is a perfect spot for those seeking dog-friendly hiking and pet-friendly trails, with plenty of space for dogs and owners to explore the great outdoors.
Visitors will find picnic tables under covered shelters near the parking area, making it easy to enjoy a meal with your four-legged friend. The preserve is frequented for its wildlife sightings, including tortoises, birds, and the occasional chicken. Parking is free and plentiful, but be sure to bring water, as there are limited amenities and only portable toilets available at the trailhead. The diverse trails are suitable for all skill levels, but remember to keep an eye on sugar sand, cacti, and wildlife when out with your pet! It’s a unique place to connect with nature and fellow dog owners in Lithia.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the preserve features a variety of trails suited for hiking and mountain biking, providing ample space for dog walking.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, there are covered picnic areas near the parking lot, and many trails are shaded by palm trees and natural foliage.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, picnic tables are available under covered shelters near the parking area.
- Are restrooms available for owners? There are portable toilets available in the parking area, but no permanent restroom facilities.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Yes, visitors note that the trails are well maintained and cared for.
- Is there parking available? Yes, there is a free and spacious parking area at the preserve’s entrance.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there are miles of trails available for hiking, running, and biking.
Reviews
Amazing place to ride and enjoy nature. Best early in the morning when the wildlife is out. Bring lots of water and a phone. It’s easy to get lost.
No plumbing. Only portable toilets in the parking lot.
A great free place to mountain bike. There were loads of picknick tables under cover right at the parking area.
The trail I was able to get to was great. But stick to the trails as there is some cactus off the side of the trail, and one of us got a flat tire from a thorn or cactus needle. So look where you ride if you stop. They were not so numerous to be a worry but just something to be aware of.
The trails are lots of fun to weave between the palm trees. The sections I traveled were rather flat, but it is Florida, so to be expected. Perhaps trails further in get some elevation. I shall have to return one day.
We also saw a fantastic tortoise some chickens and many wild birds.
I recommend you try this place if you would like a free place to ride in this area.
Great open MTB/Gravel trails. Well managed. Lots of sugar sand and wildlife to keep an eye out for. Great for getting mileage but also lots of varied trail options (Green/Blue/Blacks). Blacks are properly marked and labeled. Blues vary from mild to nearly black. Overall lots of room and beautiful place to ride at all skill levels. So e jumps but not as common as other parks in the area.
I gave it a 4 because some days the cow smell from nearby pasture is not fun, but once you get into the trails, it pretty much goes away. Variety of trails for me (beginner) and my hubby (advanced)
It’s also very pretty there.
Awesome place. Great mountain bike trails, make sure to check out the ridgeline trail. It is a fairly difficult trail, so make sure you understand your capabilities before going on the trail.
All trails are well maintained and cared for. Excellent xc mountain biking.