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Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park was designated as a state park in December 1991. This 8,000-acre preserved area sits within Polk County, Florida, adjacent to Lake Kissimmee State Park to the southeast.

Harboring the unique Lake Wales Ridge ecosystem, Catfish Creek State Park is home to a variety of flora and fauna species exclusive to this region. Preserved within this park is the scrub habitat, showcasing one of Florida’s oldest natural landscapes.

Gopher tortoises, an ancient species thriving in dry, sandy environments perfect for burrowing, are among the protected wildlife species in Catfish Creek. Their extensive burrows, up to 40 feet long and 10 feet deep, often house various other creatures like mice, snakes, rabbits, and frogs.

Another endangered species, the Florida scrub-jay, inhabits this unique habitat. Relying on the sandy soils and low-growing vegetation of the scrub, the preservation of Catfish Creek Park and similar areas is vital for the protection of this bird species.

A majestic resident of the park is the American bald eagle, a native North American species that thrives on fish and other aquatic life. While their population is on the rise, these remarkable eagles are still safeguarded by the Endangered Species Act.

Have you ever wondered why certain ecosystems require regular fire occurrences to survive? Unlike wildfires, prescribed fires are professionally managed and contained, serving as safe and crucial tools for preserving the fire-dependent ecosystems within the park.

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