Princess Place Preserve

Princess Place Preserve offers miles of trails suitable for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding. The terrain is generally flat, with a low elevation of approximately 3 meters above sea level, making most trails relatively easy and accessible for a wide range of visitors. You'll find paths winding through salt marshes, forested areas, and along the waterways.

While the preserve features an extensive network of trails, many visitors enjoy exploring the paths that offer views of the Matanzas River and Pellicer Creek. Look for routes that circle through the ancient live oak hammocks and along the marsh edges for scenic loop opportunities. Given the flat terrain, combining different sections can easily create varied loop experiences.

Yes, Princess Place Preserve is generally dog-friendly. Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails, making it a great spot for a walk with your canine companion. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help maintain the preserve's natural beauty.

While wildlife can be observed year-round, the period between January and April is particularly special for birdwatchers, as it's the prime time to view the bald eagle nesting area. Dolphins are often spotted in the waterways, and various bird species, alligators, and deer can be seen throughout the year, especially during cooler mornings or late afternoons.

The preserve's generally flat terrain makes many of its trails suitable for visitors with mobility challenges, though specific paved or fully accessible trails are not explicitly highlighted. The historic lodge is an older structure, and accessibility may be limited. It's advisable to contact the preserve directly for the most up-to-date information on accessible facilities and trail conditions.

Beyond the iconic 1888 hunting lodge, which is the oldest intact structure in Flagler County, you can also visit Florida's first in-ground swimming pool, fed by an artesian spring. The entire 1,500-acre property itself is a historical landmark, recognized as the oldest homestead in the county, offering a glimpse into Old Florida's past.

To fully appreciate the blend of history and nature, plan to spend at least 2-4 hours. This allows time to explore some trails, visit the historic lodge (if tours are available), and enjoy the natural surroundings. If you plan on kayaking, fishing, or camping, you could easily extend your visit to a full day or even an overnight stay.

Princess Place Preserve is somewhat off the beaten path, offering a tranquil escape. While there are no dining options directly within the preserve, you'll find various restaurants and cafes in nearby Palm Coast, which is a short drive away. For accommodation, the preserve offers primitive tent-only campsites and recently added cabins for rent, providing an immersive natural experience. Additional hotels and lodging can be found in Palm Coast and surrounding areas.

The preserve is a natural oasis boasting diverse ecosystems. Key natural features include the confluence of Pellicer Creek, Moody Creek, and the Matanzas River, creating rich salt-water marshes. You'll also find ancient 80-foot-tall live oak trees forming majestic canopies, and a spring-fed pond. These varied habitats support a wide array of wildlife, making it a prime spot for nature observation.

Princess Place Preserve is best accessed by private vehicle. It is situated in a more rural part of Flagler County and is not directly served by public transportation. Visitors typically drive to the preserve, which is accessible from I-95 and U.S. 1 via North Old Kings Road.

While general entry to the preserve for day use activities like hiking and cycling typically does not require a permit, specific activities such as camping and equestrian use may require reservations or permits. The preserve offers dedicated equestrian campsites. It's always best to check the official Flagler County Parks and Recreation website or contact the preserve directly for the most current information on permits and reservations.