Main Page - Fort Cooper State Park » Florida State Parks

Manager's Message

There are plenty of activities at the park to enjoy such as a picnic and playground area and nearly 6.2 miles of hiking trails. We also have a pavilion and recreation hall available for rent.

Our swimming area is currently closed and boat rentals are unavailable due to low lake water levels.

Fort Cooper State Park's nature trails offer some of Citrus County's best birding and wildlife viewing.

Pets are welcome in the park as long as they are on a leash no longer than 6-feet. They are permitted in the picnic area, hiking trails and playground but are not allowed on the beach area, in the water or in our primitive campground.

- Harry Mitchell, Park Manager

Welcome to Fort Cooper State Park

The sparkling waters of Lake Holathlikaha were a welcome sight to sick and wounded soldiers during the Second Seminole War. In 1836, the First Georgia Battalion of Volunteers built a stockade for the soldiers resting here, enabling the Volunteers to hold their own through several skirmishes with the Seminole Indians. The park´s diverse natural areas provide a refuge for many plants and animals, including threatened and endangered species. Fishing in Lake Holathlikaha is a popular activity; swimming is available only when the lake level is high enough. Private boats are not allowed on the lake, but paddleboat and canoe rentals are available. Nearly five miles of self-guided trails offer some of the best bird and wildlife viewing in Citrus County. Park visitors also can enjoy the picnic facilities, a recreation hall, and primitive group campground. Located off U.S. 41 on South Old Floral City Road, two miles south of Inverness.

Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Fort Cooper State Park, please call 352-726-0315.

Hours of Operation

Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.

Driving Directions

Fort Cooper State Park is located just off US 41, on South Old Floral City Road, two miles south of Inverness.

Park Fees

Admission Fee - $2.00 per vehicle (limit 8 people per vehicle).

Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicles with a holder of an Annual Individual Entrance permit - Admission Fee $1.00 per person.

Primitive Tent Camping Fee - $4.00/person per day. Call the park at
(352) 726-0315 for reservations.

Organized Youth and Adult Group Camping - $1.00 per youth, $2.00 per adult/chaperon.

Picnic Pavilion Fee - $30.00 plus tax per day.

Recreation Hall Fee - Without kitchen use, $50.00 plus tax per day.
With kitchen use, $75.00 plus tax per day.

Paddle Boat and Canoe Rental Fee - $5.00 per hour.