Spotlight on Trimble Park: Connect with Nature at Mount Dora’s Perfect Peninsula

The rustic charm of old Florida beckons visitors seeking a tranquil lakeside setting with wondrous scenery and outdoor adventures. Canopied by sweeping oaks, Trimble Park offers nature trails, camping and water adventures along the shores of Lake Beauclair and Lake Carlton in the Harris Chain of Lakes.

The Mount Dora treasure joined the Orange County Park system in 1926, thanks to a generous contribution from a local power couple who gifted a portion of their land for a public park.

That park’s legacy was shaped by Sadie and Owen W. Conner, prominent members of the community at the time.  Sadie made history as the first postmistress of Lake Jem, and Conner was a wealthy landowner and businessman best known for founding Ocklawaha Nurseries. After Owen’s passing in 1918, Sadie married R.J. Trimble, and in 1926, they gifted 27.5 acres of their estate, paving the way for the creation of Trimble Park.

Today, Trimble Park spans nearly 70 acres. But in the late 1970s, adjacent land was nearly lost to development. New Hampshire developer James Locke had purchased 31.5 acres with plans to build a subdivision. Fortunately, in 1978, Orange County acquired the land through a state grant, preserving it as part of the park. In 2000, the county acquired an additional 1.34 acres, growing Trimble Park’s footprint.

For more than 20 years, Site Supervisor Jeanine Neilson has found joy in the scenery of Trimble Park. “I think what draws people to Trimble is that it’s very old Florida with the large oak trees and Spanish moss everywhere, and its natural beauty.”

The lakeside retreat offers boat ramps. picnic area, playground, swings, nature trails and tent and RV camping. Park hours are typically 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. but may vary. For reservations, visit www.OrangeCountyParks.net. For non-county residents, campsites are $23 and $17.25 for seniors 55+. Residents of Orange County can enjoy savings with prices at $18 and $13.50.

Trimble Park is located at 5802 Trimble Park Rd, Mount Dora, FL 32757.

Orange County’s 114 parks and trails, boat ramps, recreation centers, and sports facilities serve 15 million residents and visitors annually.