Cedar Lakes Woods And Gardens: Florida's Quarry-Turned-Paradise

What began as an abandoned limestone quarry, a place where people dug for rock over a hundred years ago to build things like Highway 27, has now, apparently, blossomed into a vibrant botanical paradise. It’s a transformation that started with one person's idea, and it has since grown into a beloved community hub. You see, this isn't just any garden; it's a testament to what can happen when someone sees potential where others might just see a former industrial site, and it's pretty inspiring, too.

As you explore this amazing location, you'll find yourself wandering through terraced pathways, discovering peaceful waterfalls, observing colorful koi in their ponds, and admiring a wide array of tropical plants. It's a place that offers a tranquil escape, a chance to connect with nature, and a vibrant setting for all sorts of community gatherings. So, get ready to uncover the fascinating history and the many wonders that make Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens such a captivating place to visit, and it's definitely worth your time.

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Table of Contents

• The Visionary: Dr. Raymond Webber
  • About Dr. Raymond Webber
• From Quarry to Oasis: A Remarkable Transformation
• What You Will Find at Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens
  • Exploring the Gardens and Water Features
  • Wildlife and Conservation
• Events and Community Gatherings
  • The Spring Festival
  • Christmas in the Quarry
• Planning Your Visit
• Frequently Asked Questions About Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens

The Visionary: Dr. Raymond Webber

The entire existence of Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens owes itself to the incredible vision of one person, Dr. Raymond Webber. He’s the individual who, as a matter of fact, saw something truly special in an old, abandoned limestone quarry. Back in 1991, Dr. Webber discovered this particular piece of land, a site where, over a hundred years prior, workers had been harvesting lime rock to create the foundation for Highway 27. It was, apparently, a place with a past, a history of industry, yet he saw something else entirely.

What started out as a simple idea, basically to create a fishing pond, gradually grew into something far grander. Dr. Webber began transforming this space in the early 1990s, and his efforts led to the creation of what we see today. It’s a project that took over 32 years to develop, a true labor of love that, you know, just kept on growing. The gardens officially opened for public enjoyment in January of 2014, allowing everyone to experience the beauty that had been so carefully cultivated.

About Dr. Raymond Webber

From Quarry to Oasis: A Remarkable Transformation

The journey of Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens from a working quarry to a serene botanical haven is, you know, really quite something. This site, located near Williston Highlands, Florida, was once a place of heavy machinery and rock extraction. For over a century, miners worked here, digging out lime rock that helped build the very roads we use today. Yet, when Dr. Webber found the property in 1991, he saw beyond its industrial past, seeing instead a canvas for nature's artistry, and it's honestly a pretty incredible shift.

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The creation of the gardens involved a lot of work, transforming the deep cuts and uneven terrain of the quarry into a harmonious landscape. Terraced pathways were built, allowing visitors to walk through the different levels of the garden. Water features, like waterfalls and koi ponds, were added, bringing a sense of calm and movement to the space. Tropical plants, some of them quite rare, were carefully introduced, adding layers of color and texture to the environment. It's a place that, in some respects, truly shows what dedication can achieve.

This botanical garden, located in Levy County, really embraces the spirit of exploration, and it also reflects Florida’s rich history. Ponce de Leon, you know, when he first discovered the land in 1513, he called it “La Florida,” which means a place adorned with flowers. Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens, with its stunning array of flora, truly showcases the natural beauty that inspired that name. It’s a living example of the state’s vibrant plant life, and it’s a pretty special connection to the past, too.

What You Will Find at Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens

Stepping into Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens is, in a way, like entering a different world. This 20-acre property, basically created by a retired dentist, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, thoughtful artistry, and a focus on conservation. You'll discover so many things to see and experience, from the moment you arrive until you leave. It's a place that invites you to slow down and really take everything in, and it's pretty peaceful, honestly.

Exploring the Gardens and Water Features

The core of your visit will be exploring the lush gardens and the many water features that define this place. As you walk along the paths, you'll encounter a variety of scenes. There are, for example, breathtaking waterfalls that tumble down the quarry walls, creating soothing sounds that fill the air. You'll also see tranquil koi ponds, where colorful fish glide gracefully through the water, and they're quite lovely to watch.

The plant life here is, quite frankly, incredibly diverse. You'll find a wide array of rare plants, carefully cultivated and displayed. The terraced pathways lead you through different sections, each offering something new to discover. It's a place where every turn reveals another beautiful arrangement of plants and natural elements. This garden, in short, is a visual treat, offering countless opportunities for quiet reflection and appreciation of nature's artistry.

Wildlife and Conservation

Beyond the plants and water, Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens is also a certified wildlife habitat. This means it provides a safe and welcoming home for various creatures. You might, for instance, spot different kinds of birds, or perhaps other small animals that call this unique environment home. There's even a royal swan that makes its home here, adding a touch of elegance to the water features, and it's quite a sight, really.

The garden's commitment to conservation is a big part of its identity. It’s not just about creating a beautiful space; it’s about preserving and showcasing diverse flora, protecting the lakes, and providing a sanctuary for wildlife. This site, located near Williston, Florida, serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting natural spaces and fostering biodiversity. It's a living example of how a transformed landscape can also be a place of ecological importance, and it's pretty cool, if you ask me.

Events and Community Gatherings

Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens is far from just a quiet place for plants; it's a lively hub for community activities and special events throughout the year. These gatherings bring people together, allowing them to experience the gardens in different ways, and they're usually a lot of fun. The events really add another layer to what this unique location offers, and they're definitely worth checking out, too.

The Spring Festival

One of the most anticipated events is the annual Spring Festival. For example, the tenth annual Cedar Lakes Woods & Gardens Spring Festival is coming up on May 3rd and 4th, 2025. This event is a chance to immerse yourself in a botanical paradise, with over 90 dedicated vendors showcasing a vast array of rare and unique plants. You'll find everything from exotic blooms to succulent wonders, basically something to captivate every gardening enthusiast. It's a really popular event, and it brings a lot of people to the area, which is great.

This festival transforms the garden into a lively hub of activity. You can stroll through the festival grounds and explore a wide array of unique handcrafted goods, delicious seasonal treats, and exquisite artwork from talented creators. It's not just about the plants; it's about celebrating local artistry and community spirit. This event, in some respects, really highlights the garden's role as a community gathering place, and it's a good time for everyone, really.

Christmas in the Quarry

As the year draws to a close, the gardens undergo another magical transformation for "Christmas in the Quarry." For seven nights in December, the entire space becomes a dazzling winter wonderland. You can stroll through beautifully illuminated gardens, enjoying the enchanting scenery as festive lights guide you along the garden paths. It's an experience that, quite frankly, brings the joy of the season to life for visitors of all ages, and it's pretty spectacular.

This holiday event offers a unique way to experience the beauty of Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens, even after dark. The lights create a completely different atmosphere, highlighting the garden's features in a new and exciting way. It’s a wonderful opportunity for families and friends to make lasting memories in a truly special setting. This event, you know, just adds to the diverse appeal of the gardens throughout the year.

Planning Your Visit

If you're thinking about visiting Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens, it’s located at 4990 NE 180th Ave, Williston, FL. It’s a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Williston, Florida, and it’s pretty easy to get to once you know where you're going. You can find driving directions, check road conditions, and even see live traffic updates if you use online mapping services to plan your trip. It's always a good idea to check those things before you head out, just to be prepared, you know.

When you enter Cedar Lakes Woods & Gardens, visitors, and any accompanying minors, are consenting to being photographed or videotaped. This is for informational, educational, or promotional purposes concerning Cedar Lakes Woods & Gardens. It's something to be aware of as you enjoy the beauty of the place. The staff asks for your understanding and cooperation, which is, honestly, just a polite request for something that helps them share the garden's story.

The gardens are fabulous, but they are far from finished. This means there's always something new to see or something being worked on, reflecting the ongoing dedication to its growth and maintenance. It embraces the spirit of exploration and the state’s rich history, offering a picturesque garden that showcases the natural beauty and flora of Florida. It's a place that, in a way, just keeps getting better, and it's a pretty cool thing to witness.

Learn more about this amazing place on our site, and find out more about Florida's natural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens

How did Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens start?

Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens began as an abandoned limestone quarry that Dr. Raymond Webber discovered in 1991. He started transforming it in the early 1990s, originally intending to create a fishing pond. Over more than 32 years, this vision grew into the extensive botanical garden it is today, eventually opening to the public in January of 2014. It’s a pretty amazing story of transformation, really.

What can I see at Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens?

You can explore 20 acres of lush gardens with terraced pathways, beautiful waterfalls, and tranquil koi ponds. The gardens feature a wide array of diverse plant life, including many tropical and rare species. You might also spot various wildlife, like a royal swan, as it's a certified wildlife habitat. It's a place that, you know, just offers so much to see and experience.

Where is Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens located?

Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens is located near Williston Highlands, Florida, specifically at 4990 NE 180th Ave, Williston, FL. It's a hidden gem in the heart of Williston, offering a tranquil escape that's, basically, pretty easy to find once you have the address. You can use online maps for driving directions to help you get there.