Sweetwater Wetlands Park

125 acres of constructed wetlands and ponds threaded with gravel trails and boardwalks, and one of the best places in North Florida to see alligators, wading birds and the occasional bison wandering in from Paynes Prairie next door.

$5 per vehicle; $2 per pedestrian or bicyclist7:00 AM to sunset, dailyOpen in maps

In season right now

Bird migration. Fall through spring is generally the best window for migratory birds over the ponds and marsh, though sources.md carries no dated citation for these exact months.(general guidance, not verified)

Hours

7:00 AM to sunset, daily

Admission

$5 per vehicle; $2 per pedestrian or bicyclist

Seasonal notes

Bird migration. Fall through spring is generally the best window for migratory birds over the ponds and marsh, though sources.md carries no dated citation for these exact months.(general guidance, not verified)

Events near here

Upcoming events within a few miles, from our nightly-updated calendar.

Questions this page answers about Sweetwater Wetlands Park

Is there anything seasonal to know about Sweetwater Wetlands Park right now?: Yes. Bird migration. The window runs October 1 to April 30. Fall through spring is generally the best window for migratory birds over the ponds and marsh, though sources.md carries no dated citation for these exact months. This is general guidance rather than a fact confirmed against a dated source.
Is Sweetwater Wetlands Park indoors or outdoors?: Outdoors.
Can I call Sweetwater Wetlands Park before I go?: Yes. The published number is 352-554-5871.
Is anything on near Sweetwater Wetlands Park soon?: Yes. This calendar lists 5 upcoming events at venues within a few miles, the soonest Hands-On Science Exhibit “Invention of Cool” Final Weekends on Thursday, November 5, 2026.

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Visit

Location: Gainesville, FL
Phone: 352-554-5871
Official site: gainesvillefl.gov
Map: Open in Google Maps

Facts confirmed November 4, 2026 against a secondary source that corroborates the official listing (the official page blocks automated checks). Rechecked on a schedule; last check 2026-11-04 · 02:35 EST. Always confirm before you go.

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Springs & Nature · Gainesville, FL