Trout Lake Nature Center
Real Florida, Real close
At Trout Lake Nature Center we are on a mission to educate and inform people of all ages about not only our environment but on how to protect and preserve the lands, waters and their inhabitants. As a regional educational resource, we hold numerous demonstrations, talks, events and educational opportunities that will interest all ages. We are committed to working with Lake County schools so children gain a unique perspective of our area’s wildlife and lands and make positive nature connections.
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Why we do what we do
We love to share great nature experiences. We offer many events every year to bring our visitors on the journey with us. From nature walks, musical events, the Nature Sprouts program, scouting events, holiday events and more, we bring excitement to the study and enjoyment of nature and wildlife. Tell your friends, neighbors and classmates about us and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to stay up-to-date.
To see the joy on children’s face as they encounter one of our turtles, snakes or other critters reminds us why we do what we do. A walk on a trail and boardwalk to the dock on Trout Lake is a peaceful and scenic experience. The 230-acre property features a museum, educational displays, several trails, a swinging bridge and a picnic area. Don’t miss our stunning grandfather oak.
Our visitors
Last year Trout Lake Nature Center had over 12,900 visitors, not including students and program participants. TLNC is a wonderful place to experience natural Florida and learn about this very special region of the state. Visitors enjoy walking the many trails, visiting the museum and strolling the peaceful lake boardwalk.
– BILL H. I. via TripAdvisor
Our Amenities
Our Capital Building Fund
Due to our popularity and the need to provide more programs, a capital building campaign is underway. We plan to construct a new natural history museum to replace the aging double-side trailer museum, add classroom, smaller meeting spaces, outdoor bathrooms and improved parking and infrastructure.
To date, approximately $900,000 has been raised.
DOWNLOAD AND PRINT THE ORDER FORM HERE.
Basket with all our Products
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Our Reviews
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Interpretive Trails
Throughout our 230 acre property, there are many trails for hiking and enjoying the outdoors. Most trail are easy hikes that can be strolled by young and old.
Interpretive signs can be found throughout the property that tell about the things you will see. Keep an eye out for our resident turtles! Download and Print the Map here.
We have wonderful Volunteers
For some people volunteering is about giving. For Trout Lake Nature Center volunteers, it’s about living and sharing with others. Thank you for all that you do!
Our latest news
Jungle Feast 2020 Tickets On Sale
Join us for a Jungle Feast on March 6, 2020 at the Florida Elks Youth Camp in Umatilla. This one-of-a-kind event is our annual fundraising gala and features live entertainment, exotic foods, unique wildlife encounters, and so much more. Trout Lake Nature Center has...
Spring Break Camp: March 16-20
This 9 AM - 4 PM day camp immerses third, fourth and fifth graders in developing outdoor skills while learning about nature. Cost is $130 per student. Registration is on a first-come, first-serve basis, Limited to 20 . For more information on this camp, call...
Keep Wildlife in the Wild
By Anthony SmejekIf you're enjoying the outdoors with your family and your child comes across a cute little wildlife critter like a turtle, baby bird, or any number of animals in the woods, it is tempting to gather it up and take it home. However, this can become a...