This preserve includes the headwaters of Spanish Creek. Trails at this preserve meander through 21 distinct plant communities, including pine flatwoods, oak hammocks and improved pasture. The trailhead is located on the eastern side of Persimmon Ridge Road, with a small non-paved grass parking area.
The preserve is named to honor the Daniels family, who had owned the land for more than 60 years before it was acquired by Lee County in 2005 through the Conservation 20/20 program. In 1944, the Daniels family purchased the land as a homestead and for cattle grazing. The family did not harvest the pine trees on the property, which today has preserved onsite several large old-growth Florida slash pines. This acquisition served as the catalyst for establishing the Conservation 20/20 legacy program .
Two hydrological restoration projects have been completed on the preserve to enhance aquatic habitat. An additional project was completed to enhance habitat for the gopher tortoise, a state-listed threatened species. The preserve also has undergone several projects to remove and minimize the spread of invasive exotic plants. Controlling invasive exotic plants remains an ongoing management activity at this preserve.
Recreation Opportunities:
Bird Watching, Fishing, Hiking (Marked Trails), Hiking (Unmarked or Fire Lines), Nature Study/Photography
Preserve Links:
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