The beautiful Loxahatchee River (named "lowchow" turtle "hatchee" river by the Seminole Indians) is Florida's only wild and scenic river. Unlike many other rivers that have been channelized by development, this river remains virtually unchanged. It's narrow winding channels are canopied for most of the river by majestic cypress trees offering the canoeist a challenging and interesting recreational experience.

In relation to the rest of the United States, the diversity of plant species along the river is remarkable because it contains tropical vegetation as well as more temperate flora from the north. Until now all of the rivers of the National System are within the temperate zone of the United States. Down-stream lies the Florida that was here before men changed the course of rivers and cleared trees to create shopping centers.

The Loxahatchee River attracts and supports many species of native plants and animals. The canoeist may encounter common species such as turtles, raccoons, alligators, otters or deer as well as species on the United States and Federal lists of Endangered Species. These include: