Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park

The Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is situated close to Homosassa Springs, Florida, a wildlife retreat for numerous creatures, including the endangered manatee and the park's movie star, Lucifer, a resident hippopotamus. The park is highly regarded for its wildlife programs and exceptional recreation.

Park rangers coordinate many of the park's programs, including an almost four hour long park tour. Starting at the park's western entrance, the tour can be taken by boat or tram, featuring hands-on activities in its state of the art educational center and daily wildlife type encounters with otters, crocodiles and alligators. Park walks showcase the park's deer, bobcats and bears. Its refuge center allows up close, but restricted views of the manatees from a specially built, underwater type observation area.

Though Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park provides interactive activity and event programs, many people enjoy the chance to relax independently with bird-watching and picnics. A vast visitor's center hosts a gift shop with curious souvenirs. A restaurant and concession stand provide a broad range of tasty treats, meals and drinks, with views of the park's lake and boating facilities.

The park is also home to a number of excellent trails. Hikers and nature lovers can spend hours exploring the park. Many of the trails are suited to walkers and people with young children. However, cycling and mountain biking are prohibited.