Highlands Hammock State Park

One of Florida´s oldest parks, Highlands Hammock State Park opened to the public in 1931. Although much of the landscape remains the same, there are now many things for exercise enthusiasts to do. There are nine different trails for hiking. Be sure to look for alligators as you stroll along the elevated boardwalk over Charlie Bowlegs Creek. This will be the best place to see them. There is an 8-mile round trip bike path through Highlands Hammock State Park. For bike riders who may not be able to go that distance, there is a shorter 3-mile loop path, as well as a six-mile trail for off-road enthusiasts. Some bikes are available for rent at the ranger station. Skaters can also take advantage of the 3-mile loop path; however, they should beware of debris on the roadway (such as sticks or hickory nuts) which might cause them to stumble. If you have your own horse, you might be interested in the 11 miles of fire lane trails that meander through remote natural areas. These trails are for day use only. The daily equestrian fee is $6.00 and you need to make sure to take a negative "Coggins" report with you. Camping with your horses is also permitted. For those who enjoy the tranquil sport of bird watching, the park is one of the best places in Highlands County to do it. Be sure to get the bird checklist which is available at the ranger station. For campers, the park's campground offers water and electric hookups, a dump station and access to restrooms with shower facilities. There are also primitive campsites that have no electric or running water and pit toilets. However you make your way through the park beneath the tall pine trees and massive old oaks, watch for white-tailed deer, alligators, river otters, opossums, raccoons, Florida scrub-jays, cardinals, cedar waxwings and any other wildlife you may pass. Admission into the park costs $4.00 per vehicle for up to 8 people or $3.00 for a single occupant in a vehicle. more

One of Florida´s oldest parks, opening to the public in 1931, this park was established when local citizens came together to promote the hammock as a candidate for national park status. During the Great Depression, just prior to World War II, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) developed additional park facilities and the beginnings of a botanical garden. Many visitors enjoy bicycling the scenic 3–mile loop drive or hiking along the park´s nine trails. An elevated boardwalk traverses an old–growth cypress swamp. For equestrians, there is an 11–mile, day–use trail. Picnicking is another popular activity as are ranger–guided tours of the park. Highlands Hammock offers a full–facility campground, as well as a youth/group tent campground. A full–service restaurant is located on the park grounds. For schedule and catering information, call (863) 385–7025. A recreation hall is available for rental, as are several picnic pavilions. A museum showcasing the history of the CCC is open 9:30 a.m.– 3:30 p.m. Hours of Operation Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year. Driving Directions Highlands Hammock State Park is located off US 27 on SR 634 (also known as Hammock Road), four miles west of Sebring. Don't miss the tram ride. One of the park rangers narrates this tour of the park. The best time to see animals is early evening. more