Sunnyhill Restoration Area

Access this property from the Blue House parking area on CR 42. Check the entrance kiosk for a map of the area. Explore the marshlands of the historic Ocklawaha River channel and witness firsthand the impressive restoration efforts to improve wildlife habitat, water quality and flood prevention. As you wander the 19 miles of levees and trails, watch for overwintering ducks in the channelized river such as Blue-winged and Green-winged Teal, Northern Shoveler and Bufflehead. Wading birds such as Glossy and White Ibis, Tricolored Heron and Snowy Egret are common, and Purple Gallinule and Least Bittern nest here. Purple Martins patrol the open areas and feed en masse over the water. Songbirds are plentiful throughout the area, as are Wild Turkey, and Northern Bobwhite. Thousands of Greater Sandhill Cranes overwinter in the Ocklawaha River Basin. Look for Red-tailed Hawk, Osprey and Great Horned Owl year-round. Florida Black Bear, Northern River Otter and Bobcat are returning to the area as restoration proceeds. Don’t miss the observation tower on the white trail; the levee trail also has an observation platform. Take water and a hat in warm weather; the trails and dikes are exposed to full sun. NOTE: Portions of this property may be closed intermittently for ongoing restoration; call ahead before visiting.