Copyright: Florida Division of Recreation & Parks
Crane at Homosassa Springs
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Description - Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is located in northwest Florida serving as a wildlife showcase. Once the site of a private zoological garden, today the Florida State Parks System features year-round exhibits and education programming centered on Homosassa Spring where millions of gallons of freshwater pour from the limestone beds. Waters maintaining a constant 72 degree Fahrenheit temperature is home to approximately two dozen refuge-seeking manatee. These slow-moving sea cows are part of the park's rehabilitation program where harmed or endangered species thrive. In addition, nearly 30 species of freshwater fish have been identified at the park. Manicured and natural habitats provide protection for river otters, alligators, bobcats, raptors, wading birds, and Florida black bears.
Attractions
- Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is a day use facility open from 9 A.M - 5:30 P.M. each day. Tour tickets are sold until 4 P.M. Over 180 acres of wetlands, hammocks, and warm springs bring thousands of visitors each year to see Florida's native wildlife. Boardwalks traverse nearly the entire park weaving visitors through a maze of wildlife homes where alligators, foxes, eagles, bobcats, cougars, river otters and black bear are protected. Numerous shallow ponds dotted with small grassy islands provide a natural environment for a variety of native birds including the colorful roseate spoonbills and pink flamingos. The wildlife park even features a large picnic area called the Garden of the Springs. This area has an observation deck, a dozen picnic tables, restrooms, and children's museum where computers and touch-tables bring nature to life. Two favorite features of the park are the tours offered by park staff and volunteers. A 20-minute boat tour along Pepper Creek identifies the various nesting grounds of the resident birdlife. The Fishbowl Underwater Observatory located in the 45-foot spring allows an up close look at marine life. Visitors may begin their trip from either U.S. Highway 19 or Fish Bowl Drive. Both areas have ticket booths, but the main entrance along US 19 offers an orientation through the visitor center, the Pepper Creek boat trip, and then opens to the remaining park grounds for self-guided and guided tours.
Recreation - Walking, touring, picnicking and wildlife observation are the main recreations at Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. This a day use only park. Climate - Winters in west central Florida are normally mild with occasional temperatures dipping into the 30's and 40's Fahrenheit. However, averages range between 52 and 64 degrees Fahrenheit (11 - 18 Celsius). Summers are normally hot and muggy with temperatures and humidity usually exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Averages range between 81 and 83 degrees (27 - 29 Celsius). Precipitation for the central west area ranges between 52 and 56 inches per year. Location -
Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is located on U.S. Highway 19 in Homosassa Springs.
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