FIELD TRIP – Rock Hill Preserve

This field trip is sold out. Please contact Rose at RKinane@FlaWildflowers.org to be added to the waiting list.

We are teaming up with Florida Native Plant Society and The Nature Conservancy to see the incredible habitats of Rock Hill Preserve, usually closed to the public. Rock Hill is a unique site privately owned and well-managed by The Nature Conservancy (TNC). An epic sandstone outcrop overlooks Longleaf pine savannas and seepage slopes. The outcrop resembles archaeological dolmens but was naturally formed through differential erosion of the Citronelle Formation. Nowhere else in Florida will you find such significant sandstone outcropping, and this unique habitat is also home to plant species that are very rare in Florida: Nuttall’s rayless goldenrod (Bigelowia nuttallii), Southern pine aster (Eurybia hemispherica), and more, as well as many rare lichens. The site also hosts a beautiful seepage slope with Yellow pitcherplant (Sarracenia flava) and other carnivorous plant species. TNC has effectively managed these fire-dependent habitats, so they remain open and biodiverse.

This trip will entail 3-4 miles of hiking along forest roads and off trail in uneven and potentially muddy or wet terrain. Please come prepared in appropriate field attire and wear sturdy hiking shoes. A hat and/or other sun protection is also recommended.

Difficulty: Moderate

Please pack snacks/lunch and bring a refillable water bottle.

This is a remote location with unreliable cell service. There are no bathroom facilities at the site.

The trip location will be emailed a few days before departure, along with details for a carpool meet-up location. Carpooling is encouraged to limit the number of vehicles at the site.