Habitat: The scrub habitat that characterizes this 24.2-acre site represents one of the rarest and most ecologically sensitive communities in South Florida. Urban development has left less than two percent of Broward County’s original sand pine scrub community, making it a plant community that is difficult to recognize today.

Vegetation: Crystal Lake contains a variety of scrub plant species such as sand pine, several types of scrub oak, saw palmetto, and tallow-wood. Understory plants include rosemary, prickly pear cactus, gopher apple, scrub mint, and spike moss. Reindeer lichen, pawpaw, and staggerbush can be found in open areas.

Wildlife: Among the site’s resident wildlife are the common gray fox, five-lined skink, six-lined racerunner, zebra swallowtail butterfly, and gopher tortoise (a protected species).

Amenities: Amenities include a covered shelter, informational kiosk, nearly 2,300 feet of paved and unpaved trail, seating areas, and interpretive signage.

A Little History: The site was purchased through the 1989 Environmentally Sensitive Lands Bond program, which was dedicated to preserving significant natural habitat. After acquisition, site restoration efforts were initiated, including large-scale trash removal, exotic plant eradication throughout, and placement of protective fencing to stop destructive entry. Thanks to these efforts, the site has been healing itself over time. A master plan for the site was approved by the Broward County Commission in February 2000 and construction began shortly thereafter; the site opened to the public on October 21, 2002.

Aerial image of Crystal Lake Sand Pine Scrub

The natural area is accessible from Broward County Transit Route #20.

Crystal Lake Sand Pine Scrub
3299 N.E. Third Ave., Pompano Beach, FL 33064 
Phone: 954-357-8700
Fax: 954-357-8703
E-mail: ParksMarketing@broward.org