Fern Hollow Trail

Fern Hollow Trail is a 9.8 mile loop open for hiking and biking. The trail starts behind the visitor’s center along with Beech Trail, but follow the white markers for this moderately-challenging trail. When you get to about the halfway mark, the trail offers a cutback to the trailhead. There is also a primitive campsite area near the halfway mark. Campers are required to register at the visitor’s center and campsite fees will apply.

Take a break to enjoy the lake view from a bench along the trail. The wooden bridges are nice backdrops for photos along the path. You'll find yourself surrounded by loblolly pines, beech and oak trees, and the ferns that give this trail its name.

Since this trail is just under 10 miles, it is not best suited for young children or anyone with unstable footing. Dogs are allowed, but must be leashed throughout the duration of the trail.

Fern Hollow Trail at White Oak Lake State Park is named for the wild ferns that grow throughout the forest. There are a variety of trees throughout the almost-10-mile trail, including hardwoods like birch, beech, and oak, rising to elevations with loblolly pines. Like the other trails at White Oak, hikers can see changes in the ecosystem along the trail. Loamy sand hills are a reminder that the area was once covered by ocean waters from the Gulf of Mexico.

Fern Hollow Trail makes many twists and turns along its loop. Visitors will get great views of the lake as it stretches around the shoreline for about half of the trail along the north and east sides. Hikers should follow the white trail blazes, but bikers will follow the white blazes with red squares in the center.

The length of this trail makes it somewhat challenging, earning it the intermediate level ranking. There are few rocks in the path, but tree roots are an obstacle throughout the path. Pine needles also collect along the trail and can be slippery. A few wooden bridges along the trail are added attractions that help route the trail over small creeks and ravines.