The preserve is a former phosphate mine, which explains the dramatic, non-natural hills and deep, flooded pits found throughout the site.
It is one of the few places in Hillsborough County that supports a population of the endangered Florida scrub-jay.
The property contains a 'scrub-jay' loop trail specifically designed to view these birds in their native environment.
The reclaimed terrain provides challenging terrain for mountain bikers, unlike typical flat Florida trail systems.
The park is part of a regional conservation effort to link protected wildlife habitats between Hillsborough and Polk counties.
Balm Boyette Scrub Nature Preserve is a 4,933-acre wilderness area managed by Hillsborough County, reclaimed from former phosphate mining operations. The landscape is characterized by diverse habitats, including scrub, pine flatwoods, hardwood hammocks, and reclaimed lakes. It serves as a significant site for the Florida scrub-jay, a federally threatened species endemic to Florida's scrub habitat. The preserve features an extensive network of multi-use trails totaling approximately 25 miles, catering to hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. Significant elevation changes unusual for Florida are present due to the historic mining topography. The area is part of a larger ecological corridor connected to the Alafia River ecosystem.
The overlooks atop the reclaimed mining ridges that provide expansive views of the lakes and surrounding scrub canopy.
Bring significantly more water than you expect to need, as there are no potable water sources once you enter the trail system.
Check your bike tires for thorns before and after riding, as the sandy scrub environment is prone to sand spurs.
Download an offline trail map, as mobile phone reception can be intermittent in the deeper sections of the preserve.
Attempting the longest trail loops without adequate fitness or hydration, as the reclaimed mining terrain features steep inclines and deep sand that increase exertion levels.
Stay on marked trails to protect fragile scrub habitat; pack out all trash; do not feed wildlife; keep dogs leashed at all times.
