Jeanie and Pete Johnson Nature Preserve
Bird Watching
Hiking Trail
Pets Allowed
Jump to:
Section
Location and Hours
Location
11002 Ekker Rd.
Gibsonton, FL 33534
Hours
Sunrise to Sunset
Contact
(813) 672-7876
About
This 85-acre nature preserve was purchased by Hillsborough County’s Environmental Lands Acquisition and Protection Program (ELAPP) and the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) between 2001 and 2003. The preserve’s southeastern section with berms along Ekker Rd. and Symmes Rd. was a 24-acre fish farm overgrown with invasive plants prior to restoration by SWFWMD, which created freshwater ponds, marsh, and forested wetlands. The 1-mile hiking trail winds through former pine plantations that are being restored to more diverse native flatwoods and upland forest.
Ekker Preserve Trail Map
Hiking Safety Guidelines
Always be prepared when hiking on nature preserves:
- Bring plenty of water
- Download the map
- Tell someone your plan
- Wear proper shoes and sun protection
- Stay on marked trails
- During the rainy season, many trails will have standing water.
- If you think you are lost, call us at (813) 672-7876
- In case of an emergency, call 911
Amenities
- Bird Watching
- Hiking Trail
- Pets Allowed