Charles H. Bronson State Forest is a hidden gem in Central Florida

Patrick Connolly, Orlando Sentinel
·3 min read

It was a quiet morning as dawn was breaking over the horizon, sunlight just barely peeking through the clouds when I pulled up to one of my favorite sights: an empty trailhead.

Granted, it was a Wednesday, but on a busy weekend, this was a far cry from what you’d expect to see at one of Central Florida’s more popular hiking destinations, such as Little Big Econ State Forest. The venue for my morning jaunt through the woods was Charles H. Bronson State Forest, a true hidden gem among Orlando-area wildlands.

The serene outdoor space had been on my list for some time, held up by folks at the Florida Trail Association as a quiet and well-maintained alternative to more crowded destinations. Part of the 1,500-mile footpath runs through the forest.

For experienced hikers who want to spend a few hours exploring, the main route is about a nine-mile loop that meanders through wetlands, pine flatwoods, sandhills and cypress swamps. The journey, which combines blue, orange and white-blazed trails, will take at least three or four hours at minimum and presents a less congested alternative to a loop like Black Bear Wilderness Area.

Adventurers looking for a multiday backpacking trip can access Chuluota Wilderness Area to the northwest or Orlando Wetlands Park by heading southeast out of the forest. Three primitive campsites can be reserved within Charles H. Bronson State Forest.

While wandering across boardwalks, through shady hammocks and into open prairies, keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, fox squirrels and gopher tortoises. Visitors may also spot sandhill cranes, roseate spoonbills, wood storks and bald eagles along the way.

Charles H. Bronson State Forest, which is named after a previous state agriculture commissioner, is relatively new on the roster of Florida’s public lands, established with Florida Forever funds in 2008. The parcel was formerly used for turpentine, agriculture and cattle grazing.

Now, it’s an important piece of a larger statewide conservation effort and a place to be enjoyed by humans, equestrians and wildlife alike.

Important information

  • Location: 3468 Phillips Road in Christmas

  • Hours: Open sunrise to sunset daily

  • Amenities: Benches, hiking trails, equestrian trails, primitive campsites, boardwalks, parking

  • Activities: Hiking, horseback riding, hunting (seasonal), camping, wildlife viewing

  • Accessibility: Hiking trails are rugged and would be difficult to navigate with a wheelchair or electric scooter. For an accessible option, consider visiting Seminole State Forest where a tracked chair is available by reservation for people with mobility impairments.

  • What to bring: Some maps are available at the trailhead, but it might be wise to download a PDF map onto a smartphone. Bug spray will help keep mosquitoes and other insects at bay.

  • What not to bring: Florida’s state forests prohibit alcohol and the removal or destruction of plants, animals and cultural artifacts.

  • Pets: Leashed pets are allowed in Charles H. Bronson State Forest.

  • Pro tips: While some forest areas have a sliver of cellphone service, get familiar with the loop beforehand and be prepared to navigate with offline maps. Trail signs are well-marked for the most part.

  • More information: 407-971-3500 or fdacs.gov

Find me @PConnPie on Twitter and Instagram or send me an email: pconnolly@orlandosentinel.com. For more fun things, follow @fun.things.orlando on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.