The Picayune Strand (Florida) State Forest was created in May 1995 with approximately 18,000 acres. Once planned for development, a network of roadways and canals was created that had the effect of bisecting the land that naturally sits under water during the summer rainy season. Now, under plans to undo this damage, the goal for the forest is to acquire a total of 50,200 acres and convert much of the old subdivision back to its natural state. The forest provides many recreational opportunities for cycling, horseback riding, hunting, and eco-tourism. Although views of the Picayune Strand State Forest are abundant along the Trail, the entrance is approximately 3 miles off the Trail via State Road 29.
