Land O’ Lakes is suburban Pasco County, but it has real access to some of the largest natural preserves in the area. The right location here is not the nearest park — it’s one of the preserves that most families don’t know to look for.
Cypress Creek Preserve
7,400 acres in Pasco County at 8720 Pump Station Road. About 16 miles of trails — 5 miles paved, 11 miles unpaved. Cypress and hardwood forests, pine flatwoods, palmetto flatlands. One of the largest undeveloped tracts in western Pasco County.
The paved section works for families with strollers or kids who can’t handle rough terrain. The unpaved trails go deeper into the preserve and give you a wilder, more textured look — taller native grasses, heavier canopy, less maintained edges. The difference between the two shows up clearly in photos.
Wildlife is regular here: deer, wading birds, gopher tortoises, woodpeckers. Kids who are engaged with the environment make better subjects than kids waiting to be directed. Let them look for turtles while I work.
One practical note: 7,400 acres is a lot of ground. Identify which section of the preserve you’re shooting in before the session so you’re not burning your best light window navigating.
Best times: Early morning or golden hour. The canopy gives you more timing flexibility than an open park, but the best light is still at the ends of the day.
Best for: Families who want a nature preserve feel. Works for most ages if you plan the right trail section.
Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park
A smaller, more contained option. Walking trails through mixed habitats, native trees, pond views. Better for families who want natural surroundings with simpler logistics — shorter walks, easier parking, lower stakes if things go sideways with a toddler.
Best for: Families with very young kids, or anyone who wants a natural setting without committing to a full preserve.
I’m based in New Port Richey and shoot throughout Pasco County. If you want to sort through locations before committing to a date, that’s part of the process.