Victor Tyrone, Park Manager
Following a prolonged drought, the summer rainy season is here along with afternoon thunderstorms, rising temperatures and sultry nights. There must be 1000 shades of green within the park! Butterflies, Eastern bluebirds, red-headed woodpeckers, swallow-tailed kites, dappled fawns and gopher tortoises are commonly seen.
Visitors are advised to keep an eye on the weather as storms build quickly. Trails may be muddy or have standing water which will cause animals, from ants to snakes, to seek higher ground. Trails in wetlands will have mosquitoes, so insect repellent is a must. Heat and humidity also require hikers to carry water and keep well hydrated.
Bike rentals, insect repellent, sunscreen, gift items and refreshments including our renowned wild orange ice cream are available at the Hammock Inn concession. Hammock Inn summer operation is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday through Sunday only. Hammock Inn tram tours, which are currently suspended, will resume in the fall. VIP Kubota tours and special trams may be booked in advance for groups. For more information, call the Hammock Inn at 863-402-0061.
The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Museum is currently on a shortened summer schedule. Days and hours of operation are Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Special group tours may be arranged in advance by calling the ranger station at 863-386-6094.
For information about upcoming events and activities, please see our events page.
For general information, please call the ranger station at 863-386-6094.
