Distance from Tampa

1 Hour and 35 Minutes

Distance from Orlando

1 Hour and 16 Minutes

A Must For Any Florida Park Advocate

Homossasa Springs Wildlife State Park‘s approximately 50-acre site started as a popular train stop attraction in the 1940s, where people could enjoy a spot to cool off. Since then, it has become an intriguing preserve full of awesome local wildlife like alligators, black bears, red wolf, Key deer, flamingos, whooping cranes, and even the oldest hippo in captivity named Lu (he’s 62 years old!).

Wildlife Walk

The park’s featured ‘Wildlife Walk’ brings guests on an exciting and elevated journey woven through the preserve’s many animal exhibits. All the animal inhabitants are in the reserve for the same reason: they cannot survive in the wild on their own. 

When you inevitably work up an appetite from all the awesome activities, there are also two dining spots in the park; Gator Bites and Wild Side Cafe.

An Aquatic Wonderland

In the Underwater Observatory, visitors can gaze down into the depths of the spring to catch a glimpse of the diverse fish and adorable manatees in their natural habitat.

Celebration of Lights

The Celebration of Lights is one of the biggest draws to Homosassa in December. Together, the State Park staff, Guest Services team members, and volunteers adorn the entire park with gorgeous holiday lights. Stay tuned to their social for more information!

Refreshing River Ride

If you didn’t get enough wildlife views during your park journey, you’re sure to get your fill on the boat tour! This delightful 15-min Homosassa Boat Tour departs from the Visitor Center Boat Dock and makes its breezy way through Pepper Creek towards the West Entrance of the Park. Once you arrive at the West Entrance Dock, the entrance to the Wildlife Walk is just right across the street! The boat ride is only $3.00, but you can also walk or take a tram on Pepper Creek Trail for free.

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