Balm Boyette Scrub Nature Preserve - Lithia, Florida

mario D.

Incredible natural county park, designed mostly for mountain biking. Trails vary from beginner to expert. No amenities other than a porta john, covered shelter at the parking lot. Picnic tables thru the park. Woods, lakes, and critters!

Raymond G.

A great free place to mountain bike. There were loads of picknick tables under cover right at the parking area.

The trail I was able to get to was great. But stick to the trails as there is some cactus off the side of the trail, and one of us got a flat tire from a thorn or cactus needle. So look where you ride if you stop. They were not so numerous to be a worry but just something to be aware of.

The trails are lots of fun to weave between the palm trees. The sections I traveled were rather flat, but it is Florida, so to be expected. Perhaps trails further in get some elevation. I shall have to return one day.

We also saw a fantastic tortoise some chickens and many wild birds.

I recommend you try this place if you would like a free place to ride in this area.

Yanier V.

Wonderful mountain bike trails. Very natural and has a mix of everything from greens to black diamonds. The only thing I don't like is that the green trail is bidirectional. It would be safer to have the green trail one direction for half the year and the other direction the other half of the year. More signs would be nice as well. You could get lost if you don't have a map or trailforks. There is no wash station at the trailhead and no water to drink. The trail has portable restrooms. Overall it's a decent place to ride and doing the whole trail gets you to 20 miles. Highly recommended.

Dmann F.

Wonderful wildlife today. Great trials. Had fun getting in 12miles of riding. Trails are laid out well. Will be coming back again and again. Worth the trip from Lakeland!

J.E. P.

Such a great spot for running! Did 5.5 miles on this gorgeous morning. My only wish is for more non biker (runners, hikers etc.) signs on the routes. I did my best to stay off bike trails and to the side always.

Tiana A.

I run here every week to build up my ankle & knee strength for road runs. They have sand, rocks, grass, uneven terrain, narrow trails, and wide areas. Lots of deer, an alligator, tons of spiders, bunnies, & vultures. There are various trails to choose from and you can get an easy 12 mi run without a lot of backtracking. Signs are visible and point to parking but I still get lost since I don't know shortcuts or ability to read a map well. That said, it would be nice if the volunteers could fill in some areas of erosion so people won't break ankles but you run\bike at your own risk.

Sophia L.

Very pretty park. You will fell you are in the woods. There are sandy paths. Too sandy for hiking in my opinion. There was some rooted paths too which may be hard for some individuals to hike/walk. There is a solar power plant next to it. It is good for BMX riding. We saw a lot of track marks. A lot of wildlife too. We came across some noises in the forest that my dogs were alerted from, possibly deer or hogs. The trash/piping were unexpected. Overall, not a bad park.

Tony D.

Trails for Bikes and access roads for Hikers. Best visited on weekdays if you want peace and quiet. Great place to scout for deer. Wear comfortable hiking shoes. Maintained well for hiking! Mostly sun, some shade.