Lake Wales Ridge Fire Fest

5931 Hammock Road
Sebring FL 33872

Picnic Area and CCC Museum

The Fire Fest is FREE and open to the public. Park entry fees of $4 per single occupant vehicle and $6 per vehicle (up to 8 people) apply.

Highlands Hammock, the Florida Forest Service, Archbold Biological Station and other government agencies and environmental organizations are hosting an educational day for visitors to learn about Florida fire ecology and observe a 'live' prescribed burn carried out by agency staff. The prescribed burn demonstration is scheduled to begin around 2:30 p.m. / 3 p.m. Visitors may also take guided, narrated tram tours to previously burned areas which feature interpretation by Forestry staff. Tram tours are scheduled at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. and are FREE to the public on a "first come, first serve" basis. Educational programs and panel discussions presented by staff from Forestry, the Florida Wildlife & Conservation Commission, Archbold and other organizations will explain the essential role of fire, fire management, land management, the logistics, procedures and benefits of prescribed burns, wildfire mitigation and other topics. Programs will be held in the CCC Museum at scheduled times. Visitors may engage in hands-on experience with agency fire engines, bulldozers, ATVS and other vehicles and equipment. Brochures, educational materials and activities for children will be distributed from tabletop displays. Food and refreshments will be provided by food trucks and the Hammock Inn concession. This family friendly event is a unique opportunity to explore fire as a natural force of nature and meet forest rangers, burn crews, biologists and Smokey Bear!