Visit Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park and Watch the Manatees! 

Before the arrival of big theme parks in Florida, there were many smaller roadside attractions for the enjoyment of vacationers and residents alike.  One of those is the Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park in Homosassa Springs, just a short drive north from Spring Hill, Florida.

As early as the 1940s, Homosassa Springs attracted tourists as "Nature's Giant Fish Bowl" what it was called then and people could look into the crystal clear waters of the spring from an observation tower.  The park built around a natural spring that forms the Homosassa River with crystal clear water evolved over the years and management changed.  Finally, in 1989, the park became a Florida state park known as the Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park and it also serves as a rehab center for injured and orphaned manatees. 

We had a great time visiting Homosassas Springs Wildlife State Park!  From the visitor center at US 19, a relaxing ten minute boat ride on Pepper Creek took us to the entrance of the actual park and along the way, we could observe many turtles and birds.

Manatees - gentle giants who are slowly drifting in the water - are the main attraction but there is much more Florida wildlife to discover at Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park.   Playful otters, lazy alligators, Florida black bears, bob cats, and numerous species of birds including Roseate Spoonbills, Flamingos, and Whooping Cranes - these are just a small sample of all that the park has to offer. 

I was impressed with the reptile center and the new shore bird exhibit.  Although the park is dedicated to Florida native wildlife, you might be surprised to find a hippo here!  Hippo "Lu" came to the park in 1964 and used to be a movie star until his retirement.  Florida's late Governor Lawton Chiles declared him to be a Honorary Citizen of Florida so he could outlive his days at the park.  Today, Hippo "Lu" is 53 years old and seems to be doing well.

Entrance fee to the park is $13 for adults.  Florida State Parks offer annual entrance passes that are very economical for those who like to visit more often or different parks throughout the state.  For more information, visit the Florida State Parks website.

A visit to Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park makes for a great day trip from Spring Hill and Hernando County!  Go and enjoy!

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