Shingle Creek Regional Park

Been living in Kissimmee, FL for 17 years now, this is the first time my husband and I have gone to Pioneer village at Shingle Creek. I must admit, this is my new favorite place. I wish I lived in this timeframe of the Pioneer Village. What awesome views. Brings me back to this time, like The Waltons tv show. We went here to walk the trails for the first time. We were not disappointed. The scenery is gorgeous. The trails are marked with little signs of a hiker with an arrow pointing direction. There were picnic areas throughout. There were trash cans there also. A small playground at the entrance of Pioneer Village and a bathroom. The trails were hard dirt, cement, and grassy at times. Good for walking. Not loose. Everyone we passed while walking were friendly and said hi, just like the old days when people were friendly towards each other. Not like nowadays. Some had dogs on leashes. The pups looked like they enjoyed being in the woods. Definitely will be back often

We did not make it into the village. The trail is decent but I did find the directional signage lacking a bit. I didn't like that on part of it you could see new construction near by.

Shingle Creek is a hidden gem. The park follows the creek through an area harvested of trees at the previous turn off the century. The park is quiet and beautiful and a total surprise inside of Orlando. They have walking trails and kayaks for rent plus a bicycle path.

Great park to walk around. Beautiful scenery and very quiet and natural. Some areas were paved but some were rough. Boardwalk was really cool! We'll definitely go back again. You need to access park from 192 or across the street at visitor center. The same name park at the end of bass lake rd is a tiny park with a dog park area and a small walking trail with exercise stations.

Small, but nice little park with a dog park, playground, small walking trail, and an interesting exercise equipment and games setup along the path to keep kids and adults engaged. If I lived closeby, I would go more regularly, but I'd say it's not a park that I would recommend a long trek to get to it. I think about 45min was all we were able to do before we were ready to call it quits.

Easy access, great kayaking & overall an excellent experience.

A wonderful guided kayak trip with an expert guide. The headwater of the Everglades is a very cool nature experience. We saw alligators, turtles, a few snakes and tons of birds! Highly recommend the guided kayak trip

Standard dog park but with LOTS of shade space! There’s a picnic table in both large and small dog sections, and the water fountain works! Great spot for dogs to run around!

My fav run when staying yearly in Buena Vista. A nice mix of people from the neighborhood and the surrounding area. You can easily get 10-12km round trip with a nice out and back. I usually park at the parking area off Yates Road and take the dirt trail to the side of the Sidewalk, North of the Parkimg lot to get to the main trail.

If you are coming here to spend a short time walking around some of the more historic buildings, it is definitely worth it, but if you are looking for a more lengthy hike, walk, or run I can't exactly recommend it. There are quite a few dead-ends and you should plan your exact route more closely. If you want to spend a few hours on a hike amongst trees, check out Split Oak Forest on the west side of town!

UPDATE DO NOT COME HERE STRAY ANGRY DOGS I had to escape and hide in my car This park is such a hidden gem in the middle of busy touristic Orlando. Beautiful entrance sign welcomes you and then you find parking with lots of shade. There's a large grass area and picnic tables and a little bathroom. The hiking trails were all closed. But we crossed the bridge and saw a group kayakers just go in and my dog loved doing a dip in the water. Normal bathrooms are in the house by the wat

In case we aren't the last group that got confused, Shingle Creek Regional Park is actually divided into three areas. Two of the parks (the main one and the public launch area) are on one side and connected by a boardwalk bridge. The third park is on the other side of the road entirely. It is a little smaller with a playground, picnic pavilion, and small paved trail that loops. There are lots of cool local artifacts on the property, like the old homesteads and the saw mill used by the families that settled there. By the public launch area, there are lots of cute benches and a tiny beach. This is also where you can most easily hop onto the bike trail! If you need to use the restrooms, there aren't any at the smaller park across the street. The one by the main entrance is also an outhouse without running water, so your best bet is to utilize the public restrooms on the side of the staff building. There is lots of free public parking for large groups, and the area is well-maintained. I'll definitely be back soon!

This park is just off of Vine Street, a busy highway that is the main thoroughway through the Kissimmee area. Walking the property, it is easy to believe you are far off the highway and away from the modern trappings of civilization and that you are just steps from the highway that will take you into one of the biggest tourist destinations in the world (Walt Disney World). I also like that you can tie in some history with the nature. They also have a place to launch your kayak and /or canoe. It is not easy to see as it is a small opening in the trees, so keep your eyes open. I definitely would recommend here and I opt to give it five stars. If you are in the area, I definitely would recommend here.

My husband and I decided to take a walk through this park. We have driven by it dozens of times and always said one day we would go. We picked today a perfect day because the temperatures outside were only in the 60's. The paths are very clean and mostly paved so an easy walk. Understand that there is no shade so this walk would not be easy on a warmer day. There are some historic properties to see from the outside only. It was a weekday so we only saw a handful of people while walking and biking. All in all, it was a good walk for a change of scenery and to get in some exercise.

Located in the shadow of Disney World, Shingle Creek Regional Park is the perfect oasis from the theme park madness. Located at the headwaters of the Everglades the area abounds with history, natural beauty, and wildlife. The park is a 1,000 acres and spans four locations. Shingle Creek starts in Orlando and travels 23 miles before ending at Lake Tohopekaliga in Osceola county. It was a popular area with the pioneers who first came to the area because they could find plenty of food as well as wood to make their houses. The name Shingle Creek comes from the shingles the settlers used to make from the areas cypress trees. You can learn all about the history of the area by visiting the Pioneer Village in the park that has historic and recreated buildings. Admission is $7. You can also visit the Osceola Welcome Center and History Museum that has educational displays and free admission. There are more historic buildings at Steffee's Landing. The Shingle Creek Regional Trail runs through the park. Construction of the trail is not yet completed but when it is finished you will be able to travel 32 miles from Kissimmee to Wekiva Springs State Park. You can look at a map of the trail online to see what parts of the trail are open. The trail is accessible for bikers and hikers. If you prefer to travel by water you can rent a kayak or canoe at the Paddling Center and access the water at Steffee's Landing for a 2 hour trip down the same water the pioneers fished in over a hundred years ago. Other popular activities at the park are bird watching, fishing, and picnicking. There is so much to do at this park that you can easily spend an entire day. It is so close to the hustle and bustle of the tourist corridor but it can leave you feeling a million miles away. When you get tired of being a theme park tourist you can be an eco tourist at Shingle Creek.

A nice park with some decent trails. Parts have a board walk that goes through the forest while other parts are simple dirt trails. No matter the path the scenery is very nice and the trails are pretty shaded. Everything seems to be well maintained. The only flaw is that they could use more signage. You won't get lost but it's hard to tell where specific paths lead. It wasn't too crowded when we went on a Saturday. Although there are a few different entrances, parking is a little tight. There's also a cabin that houses bathrooms and where you can rent canoes. All in all a pleasant place to go for a walk, bike, or jog.

Shingle Creek Trail is one of the largest trails for Orange and Osceola County. We entered through this section of the trail located right off 192. There is plenty of parking in the lot, behind the visitor center, and right across the street is the parking if you want to rent a canoe to go down the river. The trail is large and somewhat scenic. You'll see some apartment complexes and pavilions along the way. There are a few trash cans, but no recycling bins. We brought along our dog and managed a good part of the trail, and made our way around Pioneer Village. Not too many trees along the pathway to provide shade though. There is a playground nearby, and more benches by Pioneer Village. A few pavilions and picnic tables throughout the route. Not sure if the trail is maintained as you will see litter alongside the paved way. There were a few runners, and bike riders as well. Plenty of signs so you can navigate easily. A nice place for locals to visit and exercise, and a free entity to enjoy.

I have been vacationing in Kissimmee for a decade and kept wanting to visit. I regret I hadn't sooner. This place is located right off of Vine. Off a highway! You would never know it once you make your way in. My husband and I were decided on canoeing. "Decided" Our 7 year old was with us so can't hold 3 to a kayak lol!!! I had never canoed in my life so it was tricky at the start, but once I got the hang of it I loves it! The beautiful water, the sereneness of the nature around us. Oh! Did I mention, there were alligators!! As we were rowing on the edge of the bank, there was a 7 foot Alligator chillin! Then as we kept on, one smaller one jumped into the water right in front of us! Then swam on its way. Was I terrified? Yes. Was it one of the coolest things to happen. Yes! We then headed back and called it a day! Lol This little excursion was 40$ for 2 hours and well worth it when looking for something other than theme parks. The staff were really friendly and I Loved it! Go check it out! https://youtu.be/ZOrNk7KypA0

Great paddle and I saw an albino squirrel! Definitely will bring my kayak back for this park.

I've been to Steffee Creek Homestead / Steffee Creek Landing 3 times this week. 2 of those time I took my 80 year old mother. There are several walking paths - Off the main pathway, there are natural pathways (I've not taken any of those). The main pathway (from the Homestead) starts as concrete - though the concrete is broken up, I'm guessing from age, and slightly difficult to walk - though my mom made it fine. About 1/2 way in, the concrete pathway turns into a boardwalk, which is really nice. Along the boardwalk there are benches to sit and talk. The walk itself is not that long (about 1500 steps for me - I'm short) -- then another 1500 steps back out. (The path is one way and ends at Bass Road). There is a woodpecker that hangs out just before the Bass Road trail. I've yet to get a photo of it, but I love woodpeckers. If you head the other direction from the Homestead, you go over a gorgeous bridge. Breathtakingly beautiful scenery over that bridge. Then you run into the kayak rental area. From there, there are two trail. The one to the right is really short and just leads to the road. However, it's a really nice boardwalk, so we take this to get in some extra steps. If you go to the left, you go under highway 192 (vine street) and end up at a pic nic table just before the Welcome Center. I believe this is the welcome center where the museum is - but we didn't venture that far. The first time we took this route we sat at the bench and then a vagrant approached us (no mask on and got pretty close - my mom is now afraid he could have given us covid) and started talking and then asking for money, so now my mom doesn't want to go that far anymore. I believe he lives right there by the bench, as he was there the second time we wandered over. We both really enjoyed the park and love that they put in the boardwalk making it so easy to walk those parts of the paths.

If you start off at babs landing area and then stick to the west trail that goes to the ruba section of the park, its 1.5miles or 3 miles round trip. The first part is paved ,the second half is natural trail. If you start off at babs landing area and stick to the east trail that gies to shingle creek steffee landing (kayak rental area) its about 2 miles one way and about 4 miles round trip. This whole trail is paved in some sort of way. Theres parking in 3 different areas . 1: shingle creek regional park babb landing 2: osceola welcome center and history museum 3.shingle creek regional park steffee landing

Visited here on a Monday morning so I'm not sure how busy they usually get but there weren't many people there when I went, which I was quite happy about. There are two different entrances and parking lots which connect by a short bridge, one is by the historic house and the others by the kayak rentals. The trails were really nice, and they lead you to more historic buildings, I'd say it's worth checking out for sure. Also keep your eyes peeled because I saw a pretty albino squirrel and that's kinda neato. Maybe she'll still be there. The kayak rentals are a litttttle pricey, it was about 30 dollars for me to get a single for 2 hours but it was well worth it! I spent most of my time on the 'narrower' side of the river (there are 2 different directions you can go, or if you're fast you can probably do both!) and there was a lot of beautiful wild life to see that way- turtle heaven my friends. Turtles everywhere. There are gators out there too so just be careful. The waters good and calm though, for you photography lovers. I felt confident enough to bring my beloved dslr along and I didn't have a problem- but I would recommend a long lens so you can get good shots without accidentally charging the turtles, and for all the beautiful birds out there that you just can't get close too. The workers at the rental building are really nice, and they have bathrooms and vending machines if you get thirsty or want a snack.

Good hiking trails, bird watching with a relaxing ambience. You can get from Shingle Creek to Moss Park in about 1.5 hours at a good pace. Depending the time of the year the trails can be flooded so be careful.

Perfect for biking, canoeing, fishing and biking! Son caught a nice sized bass. Lots of wild life to see. We were lucky enough to see a beaver.

It's a cute and fast trail, history right there and hidden away. I used to live in the area years ago and didn't even know of the place. Good walk and clean

Very nice out and back canoeing or kayaking on a very picturesque little river. Most of the park, trails, historic areas are closed indefinitely due to the recent hurricane flooding, so call ahead if you are headed there. Canoe and kayak rental still open though! And there's a public landing if you have your own boat. Cypress trees and lots of big birds, saw flock of white ibis, anigha, big turtles. A great spot to experience the natural Florida, but save your strength to paddle back upriver!

I visited the Orlando/Kissimmee area a few months ago to go to Universal, Sea World, and a few other amusement parks but I wanted to do something relaxing as well during my stay. I found this gem while searching for trails near where I was staying. This park includes both a walking trail and a bike trail, as well as a boardwalk, a creek to kayak in, and a bunch of picnic tables, so there are plenty of activities to do. I enjoyed a nice walk on the first day I came. Despite not having been here for months, I remember how lovely the trees were--tall, green, and covered in a blanket of Spanish moss. I enjoyed walking through the lush vegetation that covers the park, as I admired the historical cabins that were so well preserved (see my pictures). On my second day, I rented a kayak and spent a few hours kayaking Shingle Creek. I was graced by the presence of many wild animals while I admired the scenery that the creek offered. While kayaking, I saw a few alligators, both big and small, unique species of birds, lots of fishes (especially towards the end of Shingle Creek), and a ton of turtles. There were also a few ducks in the area. My experience at Shingle Creek has definitely been one of the best! I would visit again next time I'm in the Orlando area.

The Paddling Center staff was friendly and helpful. They made it easy for us to reserve for our big group and set us up for a great time. The equipment was clean and in good condition. We went left (S) and it was a beautiful route through the cypresses with a bit of current on the return. Very easy and fun for our group of older and younger adults. We are returning to do the (R) north route today. Highly recommend this place.

Was not expecting such a nice peaceful and mostly shaded trail away from the hustle and bustle of Orlando we had a great time I would definitely do this trail again A little bumpy at parts but definitely doable with a stroller

The contact of nature is very important, as long as one can exercise. Clear your mind.

I enjoyed walking on the boardwalks, or pavement especially when alongside the creeks and vegetation. It's great for seeing the local critters, and flowers. You may even catch planes take off and land However, some the the streets are dangerous to cross; blind corners and fast cars make it tricky sometimes to cross the streets. I also don't appreciate how there are no continuous loops interlacing one trail head to another-just straight lines. Not a total bust but could be better Pros: *scenery *wildlife *birding *macro photography *smooth paved biking lanes suitable for all recreational Wheels (Inlines, quads, longboard, skate board) Cons: *lacking facilities to hydrate and micturate *street crossings could be more safe *lack of connectivity, no loops

This is a nice little out-of-the-way oasis of quiet, not far from the heartbreaking, soulcrushing, drive-me-to-alcoholism mindless bedlam of the Great Disney Footprint. Judging by its absense from Google Maps and, until now, Yelp, I assume it's being developed as we speak. The piles of bulldozed groves nearby (a good thing) also speak to that effect. Given that possibility, I will ascend my soapbox. This place should totally have a disc golf course. Disc golf is growing, yet so very scarce in Orlando. I guess there's the impediment of no trees or topography, but with the massive tract of former grove, the room is there. From what I saw, they already have trails, historical buildings, a restroom, and .. huh, I seem to recall a playground. It's a fine place to spot some birds, have a picnic, or simply meditate on what a place can be like without a billion screaming advertisements assaulting you from every directions.

This is the perfect place to escape all of the Kissimmee/Orlando tourist, loud, craziness. It's beautiful and it really showcases the beauty that is Florida. Whether you want to go for a jog, a walk, or a nice kayak ride, this is the place to do it. It's fun to go in here and just get lost and breathe.

My first time kayaking. It was so peaceful. The staff were a nice group of guys very helpful and the guide was very informative about the wildlife and vegetation of the area. The tour took about two or three hours.

great park for a quick stroll sometimes downtime in non- theme parks is a great alternative

On our way out of town, we had a few hours between hotel checkout and flight checkin. We were going to visit Disney Springs, but decided to follow the signs here instead. So glad we did! It was a peaceful oasis full of history and things to see. Real restrooms (not port-o-potties) and a nice screened in picnic area. A lovely way to get some fresh air in peace and quiet away from the chaos that can be theme parks. A true hidden gem!

When you need to just stop, breathe, and get away from all the tourists and the world's most famous Mouse, Shingle Creek offers kayaking and scenic walking trails. There are two sides to the park, one right off of 192 Vine St and one across the street off of Old Vineland Road. The one on 192 is more embedded in nature and great for Geocaching! The other side has good paved walking trails perfect to get in some exercise. It also has a large fallen tree that I love to climb to sit and think. My favorite spot. :)

This Place is A hidden Gem! Lots to do here. This place has kayaking and hiking trails. Uploaded our Kayaking adventures on youtube check it out! https://youtu.be/rpOC_qOfI98

We visited Pioneer Village at Shingle Creek run by the Osceola County Historical Society. The Pioneer Village is a collection of carefully relocated structures that once stood in different areas of Osceola County. Each structure has been lovingly preserved to demonstrate how life was once lived, complete with Partin Family's Caretaker's House, Blacksmith's Shop, Lanier "Cracker House" (an early-American form of architecture defined by the center breezeway which created a natural air condition for the home), Tyson House (showing how an average farming family of 11 lived in a single room dwelling), The Cadman Complex (including bungalow, kitchen, bachelor's quarters, and citrus packing house), Seminole Village, and Mary Kendall Steffee Nature Preserve. If you are a history buff or an avid photographer, this is a great place to visit.

The real side of Florida - that's what you see when you visit this park. It's an odd spot for a recreational park, but they built the visitor's center and kayak rental building where Shingle Creek flows, which just happens to be in the heart of tourist land on 192 in Kissimmee. But you wouldn't know that's where you were when you're kayaking down the winding path of Shingle Creek - the only sounds you hear are those of Mother Nature. Lined with century old oaks and cypress trees, the waters of Shingle Creek are colored brown from the tannic acid released from the decomposing tree leaves. The water is quite safe to travel on and plays host to Florida alligators (though we saw none on our journey), turtles, tons of local birds and various other indigenous animals. We rented our kayaks for one hour ( two kayaks were less than $40) and truly enjoyed yourself. Parts of the creek are around 10 to 12 feet deep and some sections are knee deep, which makes for a fun adventure as you navigate your way down this watery maze. If you're not a water lover, take heart, there is a biking and walking path that starts at the visitors center and provides you with an equally interesting experience. There are bathrooms available and refreshments can be purchased at any of the local restaurants located very close to this park. I highly recommend you visit this park and others like it because this is the real Florida!

Place is a little dry. Nothing to really do or see. Boating down the creek seemed boring.

Looks interesting, as seen in a small article in the Orl. Sentinel today: an eventual 32 mile multi use rec trail from Kissimmee to Wekiwa Springs & Orlando to Mascotte. Started yesterday is a 1.5 ml stretch in Osceola Co. W/ 14' path, boardwalks & bridge over the Creek to the new Pioneer Village (http://m.dailycommercial.com/news/article_4fb7594c-7901-512f-bc6f-c0c37296e57e.html?mode=jqm) Here's a link with some history: http://www.osceola.org/agencies-departments/parks/parks-facilities/shingle-creek-regional-park.stml