Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Overlook

This 50-foot observation tower provides commanding views across the 21,000-acre prairie basin, where Florida’s only wild bison herd roams alongside wild horses and sandhill cranes. The wooden boardwalk extends out over the wetlands, offering prime wildlife viewing at dawn and dusk. Parking area handles larger vehicles, though the tower itself gets crowded on weekends.

Access via Savannah Boulevard off US-441, about 10 miles south of Gainesville. The overlook connects to several hiking trails that branch into the prairie’s backcountry. Best viewing is early morning or late afternoon when wildlife is most active and the harsh Florida sun isn’t beating down.

Prairie overlook with wild bison and horse herds