Walking along the dirt path beneath arching and twisting branches of live oaks, one can’t help but be swept away to an earlier time in Florida’s history. Among the solitude of the Princess Place Preserve, a cool breeze washes gently off the Pellicer creek. A deer grazes contentedly nearby. It is not frightened, but is at peace in the serene surroundings of pine, cedar, palm and live oak that canvas much of the 1,500 acres of pristine land. Wildlife in places like this are content in the knowledge that they are protected from harm from the human inhabitants.

The Princess Place Preserve is the crown jewel of Flagler County’s park system. Located on the northern edge of Palm Coast just south of the St. Johns County line. This is a place where man has found a way to co-exist with nature in harmony, with minimal impact on the environment. The park operates in a way that is very conscious of the many ecosystems that exist among the fresh water wetlands, salt-water marshes, oak hammocks and pine communities. Instead of paved roads there is a network of dirt roads within the park. You are welcome to pitch your tent and camp, but the park does not allow campers or motor homes and of course there is no hunting allowed.

The park, which is seldom crowded, is considered somewhat of a special secret to nature lovers who live in Palm Coast and the surrounding area. You can visit seven days a week and enjoy hiking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, camping and horseback riding. Visitors can also enjoy observing numerous wild animals including deer, boar, wild turkey and a wide variety of bird species. A big draw for bird watchers is the nesting pair of bald eagles that have just hatched a baby eaglet.

Along with the natural beauty, visitors are welcome to enjoy touring the historical buildings on the site. There is the lodge that has undergone renovation over the years but still remains close to its original form, and dilapidated wood bathhouses that lead to the states first in-ground swimming pool. The park is open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.