Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park

75 miles N of Tampa/St. Pete, HWY 19
(352) 628-2311
Area: Homosassa
Official Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park Web Page

Six million gallons of fresh water bubble up from this spring every day and form the headwaters of the Homosassa River. Watch more than 34 varieties of fish as you walk under the "Fish Bowl Spring", visit manatees, and see educational demonstrations. Allow at least 3 hours to see the park.

The park's resident manatees make the first-magnitude spring their home, along with fresh and salt water fish that are free to come and go. The Fish Bowl, a floating underwater observatory, offers an unequalled, below-the-surface view of manatees and fish in the crystal clear spring environment. Three manatee programs, two Wildlife Encounters and an alligator program are presented throughout the day, giving visitors an opportunity to learn more about the Florida's wildlife.

A Reptile House and the Children's Education Center provide close-up viewing of native snakes and other reptiles and a chance for children to learn through hands-on activities.

There are many special events planned for the winter and spring seasons, from monthly bird walks to spring gardening workshops and a Birding Basics Class, Homosassa Heritage Day and an Easter Egg Hunt. Be sure to look at the complete listing of our Special Events.

Homosassa Springs is one of the a very few places where you can see endangered West Indian manatees, Whooping Cranes and Key Deer up close. This is a day you'll long remember, the ideal family outing. Our dedicated employees and friendly volunteers are waiting to welcome you!

- Art Yerian, Park Manager

Welcome to Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park

Visitors can see West Indian manatees every day of the year from the park's underwater observatory in the main spring. The park showcases native Florida wildlife, including manatees, black bears, bobcats, white-tailed deer, American alligators, American crocodiles, and river otters. Manatee programs are offered three times daily. At the Wildlife Encounter programs, snakes and other native animals are featured. Recreational opportunities include picnicking, nature study, and bird-watching. The park features a children's education center, providing hands-on experiences about Florida's environment. Transportation from the visitor center on U.S. 19 to the West Entrance is available by tram or boat. The park has two gift shops and a café with a selection of beverages and snacks. The park is open daily 9:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m. The ticket counters close at 4:00 p.m. Located in Homosassa Springs on U.S. 19.

Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, please call 352-628-5343.
View Park Map

Hours of Operation

Open every day of the year from 9:00 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. Last tickets are sold at 4:00 p.m. We recommend that you allow 3 1/2 to 4 hours to tour the park.

Wildlife Encounters Programs: An educational program on Florida’s wildlife including Florida snakes, birds of prey, gopher tortoises, turtles and opossums.
10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Manatee Programs: An educational program on the West Indian manatees and the park’s manatee rehabilitation program.
11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 3:30 p.m.

Alligator and Hippo Program: An educational program on American alligators and the park’s Hippopotamus.
12:30 p.m.

Daily Educational Programs at Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park
 

• Wildlife Encounters: 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
• Manatee Programs: 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.
• Alligator/Hippopotamus Program at 12:30 p.m.

Food Concessions at Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park
Provided through Remember When Restaurant at Visitor Center, (352) 628-3180 And Manatee Café at West Entrance on Fishbowl Drive.

Note: Call ahead for hours of operation and admission
fee/charge.

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