The Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is one of Florida's grandest natural sites. The irregularly shaped basin, measuring 8.5mi at its widest point, was formed as the earth settled over a sinking limestone bed that periodically fills with water. A visitor center and nearby observation tower both offer a sweeping view over Paynes Prairie, now marshland where a herd of American bison roam. The 22,000-acre preserve today boasts a rich cross-section of Florida habitats (ponds, pine clusters, etc.)