Boulware Springs Nature Park

Historical Boulware Springs in Boulware Springs Nature Park is a trailhead for the 17-mile Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail. Immerse yourself in the bird life and wildlife along this extensive trail. The trail is largely used by hikers, runners, cyclists, and horseback riders. There are picnic tables and grills available for friendly gatherings.  An area for parking and also for unloading horses is provided. Dogs on leashes are welcome.

City staff and volunteers are actively restoring the degraded sandhill and upland pine forest north of the trailhead parking lot. 

Looking to hold a race at Boulware Springs Nature Park? Please fill out a park reservation form Park Reservation Form and submit a special event permit Special Events Permit for the City. Use of the Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail also requires approval by the State.

In 1854, Boulware Springs was the site of a meeting where citizens voted to create the new town of Gainesville to replace Newnansville as the Alachua County seat. The springs have waterworks dating back to the 1890s and were the city’s water source until 1913. 

106 acres

A new metal roof was installed in January of 2020 on the Boulware Springs Park pavilion.  American Roofing Company, a small, local business, was the contractor for the work. The project cost was $5,495. 

Details about the Boulware Springs Renovation project.

Project Schedule  

Before finalizing design and proceeding to procurement and construction, staff are vetting the plans and completing additional due diligence given the environmental sensitivity of the site. This process may result in scope changes and refinements to the current design.The goal is to ensure the renovations and site improvements are carried out in the safest and most efficient manner possible.The project is anticipated to enter redesign in Fall 2026, with construction potentially beginning as early as Fall 2027.

Location

3300 SE 15th St, Gainesville, FL 32641  View Map

29.6209239,-82.3070211

3300 SE 15th St , Gainesville, FL 32641

3300 SE 15th St , Gainesville, FL 32641

Boulware Springs Nature Park