Attractions and Places To See around Hillcrest Heights - Top 7
Best attractions and places to see around Hillcrest Heights include natural features like lakes and trails, offering diverse outdoor experiences. This region provides opportunities for exploring unique natural phenomena and engaging with local history. Visitors can find a mix of scenic landscapes and points of interest.
Best attractions and places to see around Hillcrest Heights
- The most popular attractions is Lake Wailes Park, a lake that offers picturesque vistas of Lake Wailes and Bok Tower. A 2.3-mile paved trail…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Lake Wailes Park
Highlight • Lake
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Spook Hill
Highlight (Segment) • Natural Monument
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Crooked Lake
Highlight • Lake
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Frostproof
Highlight • Settlement
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Scrub Jay Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Popular around Hillcrest Heights
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The small town of Frostproof was originally known as Keystone City. However, the name was changed to Frostproof as a way of marketing the frost free climate to citrus farmers. Unfortunately the name didn't prove to be true and The Great Freeze of 1895 killed off most of the citrus crops.
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Crooked Lake is registered as an Outstanding Florida Water, and is one of the largest lakes in Polk County, at nearly 4,200 acres. The lake is popular with anglers, hikers, and birdwatchers. A number of parks and boat ramps are located around the lake and provide the public with access to the water.
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Spook Hill is a gravity hill known for creating an optical illusion where cars seem to roll uphill. According to local lore, a warrior chief, in his quest to rid the area of a gator plague, was slain in the final battle. Legend speculates whether it's the vengeful spirit of the gator seeking revenge or the protective spirit of the chief guarding the land. Visitors park their cars at the white line and put them in neutral to witness the phenomenon. You can also try a similar experiment on a bike to see if the illusion holds true.
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Lake Wailes Park offers picturesque vistas of Lake Wailes and Bok Tower. A 2.3-mile, 12-foot-wide paved trail loops around half of the lake, providing scenic waterfront views. This area is home to several rare and endangered plants, along with a diverse array of wildlife.
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The Scrub Jay Trail gets its name from one of the rarest birds in the state: the Scrub Jay. This bird is a Florida native and can regularly be spotted here in Lake Wales Ridge State Forest. The trail itself is well-kept and passes by a number of wetland and marshy areas.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Hillcrest Heights?
The area around Hillcrest Heights offers several natural attractions. You can visit Lake Wailes Park, which features a paved trail around half of the lake, offering scenic views and opportunities to spot rare plants and wildlife. Another significant body of water is Crooked Lake, a large lake popular for angling, hiking, and birdwatching.
Are there any unique or unusual sights to see?
Yes, Spook Hill is a unique natural monument known for an optical illusion where cars appear to roll uphill. Visitors can park at a designated line, put their car in neutral, and witness this phenomenon firsthand.
Where can I go for a walk or hike near Hillcrest Heights?
For walks and hikes, consider the paved trail at Lake Wailes Park, which loops around half of Lake Wailes. Additionally, the Scrub Jay Trail is a well-kept path in Lake Wales Ridge State Forest, known for wildlife spotting, particularly the rare Scrub Jay.
Are the attractions around Hillcrest Heights suitable for families?
Many attractions are family-friendly. Spook Hill offers a fun, interactive experience for all ages. Crooked Lake and Scrub Jay Trail are also great for families interested in nature, birdwatching, and easy walks.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on trails?
On trails like the Scrub Jay Trail, you have a good chance of spotting the rare Florida Scrub Jay. Lake Wailes Park is also home to a diverse array of wildlife and rare plants along its scenic waterfront.
Is there a historical settlement or town nearby worth visiting?
Yes, the small town of Frostproof, originally known as Keystone City, is nearby. It has an interesting history related to citrus farming and the Great Freeze of 1895.
Are there any accessible trails or attractions for wheelchairs?
Lake Wailes Park features a 2.3-mile, 12-foot-wide paved trail that loops around half of Lake Wailes, making it suitable for wheelchair users and strollers.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Hillcrest Heights?
Visitors particularly appreciate the picturesque vistas at Lake Wailes Park and the unique optical illusion at Spook Hill. The natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching around Crooked Lake are also highly valued.
Can I bring my dog to the parks and trails?
While specific dog policies for each highlight are not detailed, many natural parks and trails generally welcome leashed dogs. It's always recommended to check local signage or official park websites for the most current pet regulations before your visit.
What kind of activities can I do at Crooked Lake?
Crooked Lake is popular for anglers, hikers, and birdwatchers. Several parks and boat ramps around the lake provide public access for various water-based and lakeside activities.
How long is the trail at Lake Wailes Park?
The paved trail at Lake Wailes Park is 2.3 miles long and loops around half of Lake Wailes, offering a pleasant walk with scenic waterfront views.
What is the significance of the Scrub Jay Trail's name?
The Scrub Jay Trail is named after the Florida Scrub Jay, one of the rarest birds in the state. This native bird can often be spotted along the trail within the Lake Wales Ridge State Forest.
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