Those wishing to discover a rewarding destination off the beaten trail while visiting Florida would be well advised to consider the appeal of Fanning Springs State Park, strikingly situated slightly inland from...more
My favorite so far - Big lagoon was my first campground with my RV, and is still my favorite. The walkways to the beach are so beautiful. The staff was amazing. Would love to go back as camphost.
My Favorite Park - Thought we would see you in a couple of weeks, that changed yesterday when the park was closed. When it comes to spending time in a Florida Park, Blackwater is at the top of the list. Always quiet, no lights to keep us awake at bed time. God Bless you and your Families during the Virus time out. God is totally in charge and this too will pass. Stay safe,
Bill and Glenda Hoisington
Crestview, FL
Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park - I enjoyed seeing the manatees. There were many different spots to observe them. There was a presentation about opossums which was very interesting. Watching the hippopotamus Lu eat was pretty cool. The employees were friendly knowledgeable.I was there from Noon to 5 pm. After that than I went parked in the overflow parking lot had a nice picnic lunch. I wish I could have went on the boat tour but it was closed for the day due to high water. I would highly recommend going here. It was a pretty cool place. It was $13 for adults.
Interpretive Program with Rangers - I went to an Interpretive Program and found it very informative. The Ranger talked to us about fire management and controls used. This was my first time at Pumpkin Hill. The trails are more for horse riding but we walked some just to be away from it all. There is a kayak launch area as well. Had a wonderful day in nature
Sugar Mill Ruins - Recently visited the ruins. I wish you had funding to update interpretation of the sugar mill.
In particular, one sign (reached first from the parking area (on that side of the buildings) has a nice plan view of the mill attached with raised surfaces for blind guests. Very nice. BUT I think the plan should be on the adjoining side of the ruins located on the side toward the interpretative shelter and artifacts.
If you examine the orientation of the plan view in the corner of the larger sign and look past it toward the chimneys, the chimneys are not right on the plan view. That is because the plan needs to be rotated 90 degrees for the orientation to match the actual chimneys orientation. This could be done by attached the small plan view to the larger sign at the adjacent side of the ruins.
Thank you for all you do.
Pet Rules - Pets are not permitted in the Wilderness Preserve,Cabins or Youth group camp. Pets are also not permitted on beaches within the State Park.
Found it closed - After three miles of driving down a forest road off SR65 we found the gate closed. Disappointing. There needed to be a sign out at the hard road.
Cave Diving in State Parks - It was a pleasure to meet and talk to park staff member who is also certified cave diver (!!! bravo) by National Speleological Society. Very knowledgeable and positive person. I wish state parks who are lucky to offer cave diving would have some kind of incentives for rangers having special expertise or perhaps offer rangers optional training. The park has an amazing once to be known longest american underwater cave system and it is nice to have it open for visit for international and american qualified cave divers. I also specially appreciate that DPVs were reinstated for use.
Dogs in State Parks - I believe that dogs should be allowed in state parks on leash. Dog owners that allow their dogs off leash are no different than the visitors who leave trash, do not honor the park fees or disrupt other park guests by not keeping their children under control.