Additional Information for Tomoka State Park

Wildlife

Tomoka State Park has a variety of trees, shrubs and wildflowers. Approximately one hundred fifty (150) plant species have been recorded. The park is noted for its live oak hammock with arching limbs covered with Spanish moss, resurrection fern and green-fly orchid. Some unusual plants grow under the hammock canopy including Indian pipe, spring coralroot and Florida coontie. Wild coffee and tropical sage can be found on shell midden sites.

Tomoka State Park contains a variety of wildlife habitats and protects several rare and endangered species. The best known animal in the park is the West Indian manatee. Manatees are seen in the Tomoka River and tributary creeks in spring and summer. Bottlenose dolphin occasionally surface in the lower Tomoka River. River otter inhabit marsh creeks and the American alligator is a familiar river resident.

There are excellent bird watching opportunities at Tomoka State Park. Approximately one hundred sixty-five (165) species of birds have been observed in the park and surrounding waters. The hammock forest is active during the spring (April-May) and fall (Sept.-Oct.) migration when many species of songbirds, including the colorful wood warblers, move along the Atlantic Flyway. The bald eagle, peregrine falcon and northern harrier are seasonal inhabitants of Tomoka Basin. Fall and winter months are best for birds-of-prey. A variety of wading birds, including egrets, herons, wood stork and white ibis, feed in tidal creeks and marshes.

Pets

Pets must be confined, leashed (not to exceed six feet in length) or otherwise under the physical control of a person at all times. Tethered pets must not be left unattended for more than 30 minutes. Pet owners must pick up after their pets and properly dispose of all pet droppings in trash receptacles. Florida law requires that pets be vaccinated against rabies. Any pet that is noisy, dangerous, intimidating or destructive will not be allowed to remain in the park. Non-furbearing pets, such as reptiles, birds, or fish must be confined or under the physical control of the owner. Some animals may be prohibited on park property.

Please see our General Parks Pet Policy for more information.