Trapper Nelson Wildman of the Loxahatchee
Trapper Nelson Wildman of the Loxahatchee made his home along the Loxahatchee River nearly one hundred years ago. His cabin and much of his zoo and gardens still exist today. It’s a great story that ended tragically, and very old-Florida.
We paddled the Loxahatchee River to visit Trapper Nelson's Zoo and Gardens
This interpretive site is only accessible by paddling the Loxahatchee River. Paddling to Trapper Nelson’s is a very enjoyable half-day venture. The two nearest access points are Riverbend Park from the south, or Jonathan Dickinson State Park from the north. Trapper Nelson’s is located in the middle of both of these launch points.
Here are the basics of how we got to Trapper Nelson’s:
- We started at Riverbend Park in Jupiter (Palm Beach) Florida
- Easy Canoe/Kayak launch and shady parking
- Head north towards the tunnel paddling
The paddling along the Loxahatchee is pretty calm and easy. There’s enough shade and windiness to keep it interesting. In a couple of hours and all of a sudden, Trapper Nelson’s Jungle Zoo and Gardens will appear out of no where on your right side.
Trapper Nelson provides wooden sturdy covered parking for canoes and kayaks, enough space for most visitors on any given day. This historic spot is open most days (except Tuesdays and Wednesdays, currently). Check availability through the Jonathan Dickinson State Park website when planning a paddling trip here, make sure it’s going to be open!
Wondering why the water looks so brown? No it isn’t dirty!! It’s VERY clean, as evident by the fantastically healthy and flourishing wildlife. Fish, turtles, birds and manatee can all be seen regularly when paddling down the Loxahatchee River. Why the brown color? Tannins. As surrounding vegetation decays and leeches into the water, tannins are released causing an earthy brown tone to the water.
There’s a big covered picnic area to sit down and eat some lunch. There is a primitive restroom building. There is a water fountain. And usually there is a guide that will share lots of interesting information about Trapper Nelson, his life and how he impacted this area through tourism and commerce nearly one hundred years ago.
Trapper Nelson Wildman of the Loxahatchee represents a true real Florida story that is off-the-beaten path. His Trapper Nelson’s Jungle Zoo and Gardens site is well worth the visit.
