Se7en Wetlands

Natural History

Tucked away south of Lakeland, Florida, Se7en Wetlands spans an impressive 1,640 acres of natural beauty with a fascinating backstory. What once functioned as a phosphate mine back in the 1920s-30s underwent a remarkable transformation in 1987, becoming a constructed wetland treatment system. Since opening to the public in 2018, this unique space has served a dual purpose - it's both a working wastewater treatment facility and a thriving nature preserve.

The park encompasses over 1,600 acres of diverse ecosystems where marshes, swamps, uplands, and lakes create a patchwork of natural habitats. Each day, about 10 million gallons of treated wastewater flows through the park's seven cells (hence the clever name), undergoing natural filtration for roughly 100 days before continuing its journey to the Alafia River and eventually reaching Tampa Bay.

Wildlife Viewing

Se7en Wetlands offers plenty for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is recognized as an e-bird hotspot - 120 different bird species have been documented here in recent years alone.

During your visit, you might spot alligators ranging from tiny babies to impressive adults sunning themselves. Keep your eyes peeled for frogs, turtles, bobcats, and butterflies that call this place home. Many hikers are treated to sightings of majestic sandhill cranes and a variety of other feathered residents. The small islands - remnants from the mining days - now serve a new purpose as protected nesting havens for birds.

Trails and Recreation

The park features over 8.5 miles of hiking trails to explore, with recent expansions adding more paths. Two main routes await: the Gopher Tortoise Trailhead offers a 2.9-mile loop, while the Wood Stork Trailhead provides a slightly shorter 2.4-mile journey.

You'll discover the trails well-marked at most intersections, but it's smart to snap a photo of the trail map before heading out. The terrain is refreshingly even and approachable - no mountaineering skills required! While one trail route delivers more scenic views and better wildlife spotting opportunities, the other might feel a bit repetitive in places.

A modest boardwalk extends into the wetlands for viewing, however don't expect anything elaborate. Unlike some wetland parks that become impassable after rain, these trails typically remain accessible even during Florida's notorious rainy season.

Visitor Information and Amenities

A word of caution: shade is scarce at Se7en Wetlands, with just a few scattered covered picnic tables along the trails offering refuge. You'll want to bring plenty of water, wear a good hat, and maybe save your visit for early morning or evening during hot weather.

Clean, handicap-accessible restrooms and water fountains welcome you at the Gopher Tortoise entrance and parking area, but once you're on the trails, you're on your own water-wise. Thankfully, several covered seating areas are strategically placed across the park, providing welcome breaks from the Florida sun.

One of the park's charms is its uncrowded atmosphere - you'll likely enjoy stretches of peaceful solitude with minimal encounters with other visitors. Note that your four-legged friends will need to sit this one out, as dogs aren't allowed on the trails.

Access Information

To reach Se7en Wetlands, you'll drive through Carter Park/Loyce E. Harpe Park. Be aware that access routes occasionally face closures due to maintenance work or weather conditions.

The park welcomes visitors daily from 7AM to 7PM, making it well-suited for both early risers hoping to catch wildlife at dawn and evening explorers seeking cooler temperatures.