Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens
Tucked away in the quiet town of Williston, Florida, Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens offers something rarely found in typical tourist spots: serenity, natural beauty, and a story of transformation. A multi-story botanical landscape, carefully carved and teeming with lush vegetation, waterfalls, and reflected ponds, was once a disused limestone quarry. This is not your average public garden—it’s a peaceful oasis that brings together landscaping, conservation, and the joy of discovering something unexpected.
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| Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens |
A Quarry Reimagined
Dr. Raymond Webber bought a plot of property that had once been a working limestone quarry in 1991, marking the beginning of Cedar Lakes' history. Rather than level the land or build over it, he decided to shape it—literally—into a terraced garden space. Over two decades, he sculpted the quarry walls into walkways, built waterfalls, and created plant beds that fit within the quarry’s natural contours.
By 2014, the space was opened to the public, not just as a garden, but as a living, growing ecosystem. It became a non-profit with a mission to preserve the natural landscape while allowing visitors to engage with Florida’s flora in a uniquely immersive way.
10 Reasons Why Cedar Lakes Woods & Gardens
How to Get There and What to Expect
Location:
4990 NE 180th Ave, Williston, FL 32696
Cedar Lakes is easily accessible by automobile and is situated around one hour north of Ocala and thirty minutes southwest of Gainesville. It’s a great half-day or full-day destination for travelers seeking to explore North Florida’s natural beauty without the crowds.
Accessibility:
Most of the walking paths are gravel or stone, and while some are narrow or steep, much of the garden can be navigated by people of all ages with moderate mobility. Benches are placed throughout for rest stops and scenic views.
Parking:
The garden entrance is just a short walk from the parking lot, which is available for free on-site.
Main Attractions Inside the Garden
The layout of Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens makes it feel like you’re walking through a series of hidden rooms, each with a different theme or feature.
1. Terraced Botanical Gardens
The terraces are the most striking feature. Built into the quarry walls, these levels are filled with flowering plants, vines, and ferns. You’ll find a mix of tropical plants like hibiscus and orchids alongside native species such as saw palmetto and coontie.
Each level offers a new perspective—look down to admire the ponds, or up to see the trees rising over the quarry rim.
2. Ponds, Waterfalls, and Water Features
At the base of the garden lie several spring-fed ponds filled with koi fish, turtles, and frogs. The waterfalls are small but thoughtfully placed, designed to provide gentle background sound and help circulate water naturally.
Bridges cross over narrow sections of water, and in some places, moss and lily pads drift lazily across the surface, creating a painterly scene.
3. Stonework and Pathways
What makes Cedar Lakes truly unique is its human-made structure that blends seamlessly with nature. There are carved stone stairways, hand-built rock bridges, and garden paths made from local materials. The whole area has a carefully planned yet natural feel to it.
4. Wildlife
It’s not just plants that thrive here. You’re likely to see birds like herons, woodpeckers, or hawks, as well as butterflies and dragonflies hovering near the flowers. The ponds support aquatic life, including turtles and schools of koi fish, adding another layer of life and movement.
Things to Do During Your Visit
This isn’t a theme park or a place for entertainment—it’s an experience designed to slow you down and immerse you in nature. That said, there’s plenty to do for curious minds and nature lovers.
Self-Guided Tours
Most visitors explore the gardens at their own pace. There are signs along the pathways to provide information about certain plants or features, but the focus is on quiet discovery.
Photography
Whether you're a casual smartphone photographer or carry a DSLR, this place is a dream for photos. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light, and the shadows cast on the quarry walls create natural drama in every shot.
Seasonal Events
The garden occasionally hosts events, including holiday light shows, plant sales, and small community gatherings. These are usually low-key, nature-focused events and are announced on their website and social media.
Picnic Spots
There are shaded picnic tables near the entrance and along some of the walking routes. Visitors are welcome to bring their own food and enjoy a quiet lunch in nature.
Practical Information for Visitors
Hours: Typically open Thursday to Monday, closed Tuesday and Wednesday. Always check the official site for updated hours.
Admission: As of now, tickets are modestly priced (around $12 for adults), with discounts for seniors, children, and veterans. Prices support garden maintenance and conservation.
Restrooms: Clean and accessible restrooms are available near the entrance.
Gift Shop: A small shop offers souvenirs, garden accessories, local honey, and plants.
Visitor Guidelines
To preserve the space for everyone:
Dogs are permitted, but they must always be kept on a leash.
No picking plants or feeding wildlife.
Drones, loud music, or disruptive behavior are not permitted.
Smoking is not allowed within the gardens.
Weddings and Private Events
Cedar Lakes is a popular spot for weddings, natural-themed events, and outdoor engagement photos. With stone staircases, garden overlooks, and lush backdrops, it offers natural beauty without the need for decorations.
Event bookings are handled by appointment, and packages include private access and photography time.
Nearby Attractions for a Day Trip
While you’re in the area, consider visiting:
Devil’s Den Spring—a prehistoric underground spring just 10 minutes away. Perfect for snorkeling or diving.
Blue Grotto Dive Resort—another clear-water dive site popular with both beginners and professionals.
Downtown Williston—small-town charm, antique stores, and locally owned diners.
Real Visitor Feedback
Visitors often describe Cedar Lakes as “peaceful,” “inspiring,” and “unlike anything else in Florida.” Many are surprised at the size and depth of the gardens.
Final Thoughts
Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens isn’t just another botanical garden—it’s a carefully curated experience where nature and stone meet to create something timeless. It’s a labor of love turned into a gift for the public, and one that rewards every visitor with moments of calm, inspiration, and awe.
Whether you're a traveler, gardener, photographer, or someone who simply enjoys being outside, this place is worth your time.
Conclusions
Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens is more than a scenic destination—it is a testament to how vision and care can turn an abandoned space into a living masterpiece. What was once a barren limestone quarry now flourishes as a sanctuary of peace, beauty, and renewal, inviting every visitor to pause, reflect, and connect with nature in its most tranquil form.
