Ordway-Swisher Biological Station Sandhill Prairie

The conservation and research area is located in northern Florida and is actively managed by the University of Florida. It serves as a pristine outdoor laboratory for ecological and biological studies.

This specific ecosystem is characterized by its rolling sandy terrain, native bunch grasses, and widely spaced longleaf pines. It represents a unique, well-drained landscape that relies on periodic fires to maintain its biodiversity.

Because it is an active biological research station, public access is generally restricted to protect the sensitive ecosystems and ongoing scientific experiments. Visitation is typically limited to permitted researchers, students, and organized educational groups.

The preserve provides a vital habitat for numerous native Florida species, including the gopher tortoise and the eastern indigo snake. The open, grassy expanses interspersed with pines are perfect for these threatened and protected reptiles.