Lake Santa Fe, located in the serene and picturesque northeastern Alachua County, Florida, is a stunning 5,850-acre body of water that offers a blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and recreational opportunities. The lake is actually divided into two interconnected lakes—Santa Fe Lake and Little Santa Fe Lake—which are easily navigable by boat. As a spring-fed lake, it flows into the Santa Fe River, which eventually connects to the Suwannee River. Known as one of the larger lakes in Florida, Lake Santa Fe is a popular destination for outdoor activities, relaxation, and nature exploration.
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Santa Fe Lake Park Map
Santa Fe Lake Park: A Natural Sanctuary
Managed by Alachua County, Santa Fe Lake Park offers visitors a variety of recreational activities. Nature enthusiasts can explore trails winding through lush woodlands, where they may spot a wide range of wildlife. Deer, raccoons, and other animals are commonly seen, while bald eagles may be spotted soaring through the sky. The park also features a boat ramp, making it easy to launch your boat and explore the lake’s many areas.
Address:
24500 NE SR 26, Melrose, FL 32666
Phone:
352-264-6868
Rich Wildlife Around Lake Santa Fe
Living on or visiting Lake Santa Fe means having access to an abundant range of shore-based, water-based, and land-based plants and animals. The healthy lake ecosystem, along with its natural shoreline, plays a critical role in maintaining a balanced habitat for both wildlife and plant life.
Vegetation and Plant Life
The shoreline of Lake Santa Fe is dotted with diverse vegetation, including a variety of trees, shrubs, and aquatic plants. These plants play an essential role in providing food and shelter for local wildlife while helping to prevent shoreline erosion. Key trees and shrubs found in the area include:
- Cypress
- Hickory
- Holly
- Swamp Tupelo
- Red Maple
- Wax Myrtle
Emergent plants, those growing in water with leaves above the surface, such as Maidencane, Spatterdock, Pickerelweed, and Sawgrass, add to the beauty and ecological importance of the area.
Endangered Species
Lake Santa Fe is home to several endangered and protected species, making it an important natural sanctuary. Some of these species include:
- American Alligator
- Florida Black Bear
- Sherman’s Fox Squirrel
- Southern Bald Eagle
- Wood Stork
Efforts to preserve the lake’s natural environment are essential to maintaining the delicate balance that allows these species to thrive.
Bird Watching
Lake Santa Fe is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with a wide variety of both migratory and permanent bird species. Supported by the tree canopy and shoreline vegetation, birds such as Herons, Egrets, and Wood Storks feed in the lake’s vegetation. A notable rookery is found in the treetops along the eastern shore of Little Lake Santa Fe, where many bird species gather.
In addition to wading birds, the lake is home to larger birds like Bald Eagles, Owls, Hawks, and Kingfishers, as well as smaller birds such as Hummingbirds, Cardinals, and Blue Jays.
Mammals and Other Wildlife
The forested land around Lake Santa Fe supports an array of mammals, including Deer, Raccoons, Squirrels, Beavers, and Bears. River Otters are occasionally seen swimming along the shore or climbing onto docks, while Bats are beneficial in controlling the mosquito population.
Reptiles and Amphibians
Lake Santa Fe’s healthy ecosystem is also home to reptiles and amphibians, including Lizards, Skinks, Turtles, and Frogs. Alligators are a natural part of the environment and are most often visible at dawn or dusk. Common non-poisonous snakes such as Indigo Snakes, Corn Snakes, and Rat Snakes can be found in the area, while Coral Snakes and Water Moccasins are present as well. Staying cautious around these snakes is important.
Fishing at Lake Santa Fe
Lake Santa Fe offers excellent fishing opportunities, attracting anglers from near and far. The lake is home to a variety of fish, including both game and non-game species. Popular fish include:
- Large-mouth bass
- Speckled perch
- Sunshine bass
- Pickerel
- Bluegill
Fishing tournaments are a regular event on the lake, further highlighting its status as a prime destination for anglers.
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A Word About Alligators and Bears
The presence of alligators in Lake Santa Fe is considered a sign of the lake’s overall health. However, it’s essential to avoid feeding alligators, as this can lead to dangerous behavior. It is illegal to feed alligators, and those that lose their natural fear of humans are often destroyed.
Similarly, Florida Black Bears are occasionally spotted in the rural areas surrounding the lake. While they rarely pose a threat, it’s important to take precautions to prevent human-bear conflicts. Suggestions for keeping bears wild include:
- Storing garbage in bear-proof containers
- Bringing in bird feeders at night
- Making loud noises to scare off any bears spotted near your home
By following these guidelines, both residents and bears can safely coexist.
Lake Santa Fe things to do:
- Keystone Heights Sunrise Park: A peaceful park with outdoor activities and scenic views.
- Florida Museum: Explore Florida’s history, wildlife, and culture.
- Prairie Creek Preserve: A nature preserve perfect for hiking and birdwatching.
- Historic Matheson House: Discover the history and heritage of the area.
- Cade Museum for Creativity & Invention: A museum dedicated to innovation and creativity.
Nearby Hotels at Santa Fe Lake:
- The Inn at Palmetto: Comfortable accommodations with a cozy atmosphere.
- Tropix Inn: A relaxed, budget-friendly hotel for travelers.
- Classic Inn: A charming inn offering a great stay in a central location.
Nearby Restaurants at Santa Fe Lake:
- The Frozen Pelican: Enjoy ice cream and other treats.
- Gator Bait Family Sports Grill: A casual spot for delicious food and drinks.
- Fryer’s Chicken: Known for serving up tasty fried chicken and comfort food.
Conclusion
Lake Santa Fe is not only a scenic and peaceful retreat but also a thriving natural habitat full of wildlife and plant life. Whether you’re boating on the lake, hiking through the surrounding park, or observing the local fauna, there’s always something to discover. Its rich biodiversity, coupled with its tranquil beauty, makes Lake Santa Fe a truly special destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
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FAQs
Q: What activities can I do at Lake Santa Fe?
A: You can enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the beautiful park trails around Lake Santa Fe.
Q: Is Lake Santa Fe good for fishing?
A: Yes, Lake Santa Fe is known for excellent fishing, with a variety of species like bass, catfish, and bluegill.
Q: Are there any wildlife species at Lake Santa Fe?
A: Yes, Lake Santa Fe is home to many species, including alligators, bald eagles, and deer, making it a great spot for wildlife viewing.
Q: Can I boat on Lake Santa Fe?
A: Absolutely! Lake Santa Fe is perfect for boating, with a boat ramp available for easy access to the water.
Q: Where is Lake Santa Fe located?
A: Lake Santa Fe is located in northeastern Alachua County, Florida, offering a serene escape surrounded by nature.