Ayavalla Preserve is more than a place - it is a continuation of a family’s long-standing relationship with land, stewardship, and conservation.

For generations, the Phipps Family has cared for this property along the north shore of Lake Jackson, shaping its evolution while preserving its natural character.

Long before Ayavalla Preserve took shape, this land was part of the agricultural history of North Florida - once worked as cotton fields in the 19th century.

Like much of the region, the land eventually transitioned away from row crop agriculture, leaving behind both its history and its challenges.

In 1936, the property began a new chapter when it was acquired by the Phipps family, establishing what would become Ayavalla Plantation.

The name Ayavalla carries its own connection to the land.

Derived from a Native American word historically used to describe Lake Jackson, the name reflects a relationship to water and place that has long defined this landscape. The term was also used by early Florida writer Ellen Call Long to refer to the lake and its surrounding environment.

Today, that meaning remains deeply relevant. At Ayavalla Preserve, the connection between soil and water continues to guide how the land is cared for - linking its history to its future.

The Phipps family’s connection to this land was deeply personal.

Having spent time in Africa, including during their honeymoon and extended travels, the landscape of North Florida’s Red Hills region - with its open spaces, rolling terrain, and natural beauty - felt familiar.

It was this resemblance that drew them to the property and ultimately shaped their long-term relationship with it.

From the Ayavalla Archive: A photo from one of Ben and Clippy Phipps’ African expeditions, reflecting a spirit of exploration that continues to shape Ayavalla today.

Like many properties in the Red Hills region, Ayavalla evolved into a quail hunting plantation - part of a broader tradition where former agricultural lands were restored into managed wildlife habitats.

These plantations emphasized land management practices that supported native grasses, longleaf pine ecosystems, and wildlife - marking an early shift away from extraction toward stewardship.

Ayavalla became part of this landscape, contributing to a regional legacy known for its unique blend of conservation and recreation.

Over time, cattle became an important part of the landscape at Ayavalla. Ben and “Clippy” Phipps first introduced Charolais cattle to the property, importing the striking white breed from France. Large, elegant, and impressive in stature, the Charolais herd became both a passion and a point of pride for the family during the early years of ownership.

Later, around 2009, Tim Phipps — grandson of Ben and Clippy — began viewing cattle through a different lens. Beyond agriculture alone, cattle became an intentional tool for land stewardship and regeneration. When managed thoughtfully, their grazing patterns helped stimulate plant growth, improve soil structure, and strengthen the overall function of the landscape. Over time, their presence began to shape a deeper understanding of the interconnected natural systems at work across the property.

From the Ayavalla Archive: A postcard produced by Ben & Clippy Phipps featuring one of their prized Charolais bulls.

As generations passed, the philosophy guiding Ayavalla continued to evolve.

What began as land ownership became stewardship.

And stewardship has now become regeneration.

Today, Ayavalla Preserve is focused on rebuilding soil health, supporting water systems, and restoring the natural processes that allow the land to thrive. The lessons learned over decades - from agriculture to wildlife management to grazing - have culminated in a systems-based approach rooted in regeneration.

The Phipps family has long been associated with conservation efforts - both on this land and beyond.

That commitment continues today through a focus on maintaining the land in its natural state - without plans for development, and with a long-term approach to ecological health and stewardship.

Ayavalla Preserve reflects both history and intention.

The land has evolved over time - but the commitment to care for it has remained constant.

Today, that commitment is expressed through regeneration - restoring the soil, supporting water systems, and ensuring the land continues to improve for generations to come.

Ayavalla Preserve hopes to create intentional ways for guests to connect with the landscape and its mission. Future offerings may include short-term stays, guided experiences, bird watching opportunities, and educational events centered around regenerative stewardship, soil health, and conservation.

Join our mailing list and check our ‘Experience Ayavalla’ tab for updates and opportunities.