The Oakland Nature Preserve is a 128-acre sanctuary dedicated to promoting an understanding of the delicate balance between humanity and the environment. Its mission is to educate visitors about the ecosystems and cultural history of the Lake Apopka Basin, while actively restoring and conserving the land within the preserve. The preserve offers a variety of activities, including hiking on trails through oak and pine forests, exploring a boardwalk through wetlands to Lake Apopka, and visiting the Jim Thomas Environmental Education Center, which features live animal exhibits, a museum, and educational programs. The organization also focuses on habitat restoration, aiming to return the land to its original sandhill ecology. They provide recreational and educational opportunities for all ages, making it a living classroom for learning about Florida's ecology. The preserve is open year-round and offers guided tours, field trips, summer camps, and volunteer opportunities.
