Kissimmee Chain of Lakes

Brownie Wise Park

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On the afternoon of New Year’s Eve, we found ourselves in Kissimmee and decided to explore Brownie Wise Park, a charming natural oasis located within the Tupperware Island Conservation Area and overlooking Lake Tohopekaliga (Toho to locals), which is part of the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes. Although there isn’t much of a hiking trail, Brownie Wise Park features picnic areas, pavilion rentals, and a canoe and kayak launch. At this point, you may be asking, “Who the hell is Brownie Wise?” She was a Tupperware business pioneer, who “lived on the shores of the lake until she died in 1992 at the age of 79 and owned land in the area,” according to the Orlando Sentinel.

 

 

Hike #41: Twin Oaks Conservation Area

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Hike #41: 52 Hike Challenge: Twin Oaks Conservation Area, Kissimmee. I arrived at Twin Oaks Conservation Area mid-morning and there were few people around. Except for a few guys fishing on the dock, I had the place to myself. The site of a former cattle ranch and sod production area, Twin Oaks offers a nice stroll through a wildlife habitat along the shores of Lake Tohopekaliga (aka Lake Toho), which is part of the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes. According to the official website, “Twin Oaks is characterized by improved pastures, live oak hammocks, wet prairies, freshwater marshes, shrub wetlands and remnant cypress.” The twin oaks that give the conservation area its name are very impressive! Be sure to bring a hat and some sunscreen since there is little shade during the entire hike. In addition to hiking and wildlife viewing, Twin Oaks offers equestrian trails, fishing, picnicking and primitive camping for groups. Distance: 1.9 miles.