The Forever Wild Shoal Creek Preserve Tract in Lauderdale County consists of approximately 298 acres and is home to the Forever Wild Shoal Creek Preserve Trail System. The trail system navigates through several different habitat types throughout the site which include fallow fields, mature upland hardwood stands and scenic creek bottoms. Waterways consist of Indian Camp Creek, Lawson Creek, Jones Branch, and Shoal Creek. The management objectives are preserving natural plant and animal species and habitats, while providing opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, fishing, hunting, canoeing, picnicking, bird watching, photography and nature study. Motorized vehicles are only allowed in designated parking areas and access roads. The tract is located approximately 7 miles from Florence, AL and 3 miles north of the St Florian community. Access is via an unimproved road off Lauderdale County Road 61.
The Shoal Creek Preserve Tract has two hiking trails; the Jones Branch Loop (2.4 miles) and the Lawson Branch Loop (1.8 miles). The Tract also has a 2.1 mile horseback riding trail.
All trails are free to use by the public and provide ample opportunity to observe wildlife including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, wood ducks, and several other bird species. The trails close at sunset.
For more information about Alabama Forever Wild Program visit the program web site at, http://www.outdooralabama.com/public-lands/stateLands/foreverWild/.
The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama's natural resources through five divisions: Marine Police, Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. To learn more about ADCNR, visit www.outdooralabama.com.
