Complete Guide: Hugh Taylor Birch State Park — Fort Lauderdale’s “Central Park” — a lush tropical oasis between the Intracoastal Waterway and Atlantic Ocean, Florida — featuring direct beach access via pedestrian tunnel, a mile-long freshwater coastal dune lagoon with kayak/SUP/canoe rentals, 250+ bird species (Great Florida Birding Trail), the Coastal Hammock Trail through tropical hardwood forest, a 2-mile paved bike loop, Intracoastal fishing, and the Terramar Visitor Center.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is Fort Lauderdale’s most beloved green space — a gift from Chicago attorney Hugh Taylor Birch who donated this precious strip of tropical paradise between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic. Where else in Florida can you paddle a freshwater lagoon, hike a tropical hammock, and walk to the beach through a tunnel under A1A — all in one visit?
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Fort Lauderdale — between Intracoastal + Atlantic |
| Beach Access | Pedestrian tunnel under SR A1A |
| Lagoon | 1-mile freshwater coastal dune lagoon |
| Birding | 250+ species — Great Florida Birding Trail site |
| Camping | Youth group camping only — day-use park |
| Concessionaire | Park & Ocean — rentals + restaurant |
Activities
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Swimming | Atlantic beach — via pedestrian tunnel |
| Kayak/SUP/Canoe | Freshwater lagoon — rentals available on-site |
| Bird Watching | 250+ species — wading birds, hawks, neotropical migrants |
| Hiking | Coastal Hammock Trail — tropical hardwood forest |
| Biking/Rollerblading | 1.9–2 mi paved loop road |
| Fishing | Intracoastal Waterway seawall |
| Snorkeling | Atlantic beach — offshore reef access |
| Picnicking | Pavilions + picnic areas — rentable |
| Museum | Terramar Visitor Center — natural + cultural history |
| Dining | Park & Ocean restaurant on-site |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rent kayaks or paddleboards?
Yes — the Park & Ocean concessionaire offers kayak, canoe, and stand-up paddleboard rentals on the freshwater lagoon. The calm, sheltered water is perfect for beginners and families.
How do I get to the beach?
The park connects to Fort Lauderdale Beach via a pedestrian tunnel that runs under State Road A1A. You don’t need to leave the park or find street parking — just walk through the tunnel.
More parks nearby: Hugh Birch State Park is a short drive away, while Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park lies a short drive away.
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for Florida state parks online at reserve.floridastateparks.org.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Domestic pets are welcome in many Florida State Parks — on hiking trails, in picnic areas and campgrounds — but only in designated areas.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leashes may not exceed 6 feet; pets must be under physical control at all times.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not permitted on beaches, boardwalks or playgrounds, or in bathing areas — swimming pets can be viewed as prey by alligators.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are not allowed in any state park buildings, cabins or cabin areas.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Pets prohibited at several parks including Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs (free kennels at the entrance), Weeki Wachee Springs and Egmont Key; in campgrounds pets must be confined in the camping unit 11 p.m.-7 a.m.
Are dogs allowed at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park?
Domestic pets are welcome in many Florida State Parks — on hiking trails, in picnic areas and campgrounds — but only in designated areas. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via floridastateparks.org. More: Florida state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
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