Wander Wild Florida at Homosassa Springs State Park

Whether you’re a local, a snowbird, or just passing through, this is the kind of Florida tourist attraction you didn’t know you were missing.

Manatees All Year Long No Wetsuit Required.

Manatees are Florida’s mascot. These laid-back native animals are drawn to warm water, and the Homosassa River is their jam!

Most places only offer manatee sightings during winter, but Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is home to an astounding number of manatees year-round.

Thanks to its role as a rehab, manatee programs, and education center, the park cares for manatees that are sick, injured, or orphaned. 

That means you can admire these gentle giants in every season, no boat tour required. The park’s underwater observatory, affectionately nicknamed the “Fish Bowl,” lets you look directly into the natural spring bowl where manatees, tarpon, and other freshwater fish cruise by. It’s like snorkeling without getting wet or swallowing saltwater!

Lu the Hippo: The Star You Didn’t Expect.

He was big. He was loud. He’s had serious main-character energy. Lu the Hippo, was the park’s most famous resident.

Lu originally came from the world of showbiz, appearing in TV shows and films back in the day. But when the state turned the property into a native wildlife park, there was one problem: Lu wasn’t from Florida. 

Locals loved him so much that he was granted the honorary Citizen of Florida, making him the only non-native species legally allowed to stay, and he played an important role at the park.

Lu enjoyed long naps, lazy swims, and being the park’s most photographed animal. And let’s be honest, he probably got a better retirement plan than most of us.

Lu had a unique life story and lived well into his sixties. He passed away peacefully on June 8, 2025. We’d love to know, down in the comments, your fondest Lu memories. 

Wander Through Natural Florida.

Besides the resident wildlife, the scenery at Homosassa Springs State Park is a Florida must-see! Stroll through boardwalks and peaceful, shady trails that guide you through gorgeous oak hammocks, cypress swamps, and freshwater springs, offering plenty of recreational opportunities to wander and explore. 

The shaded boardwalk loop offers plenty of respite from the hot Florida sun and gives the perfect opportunity to experience multiple ecosystems in one easy-breezy, scenic walk. Grab a seat on one of the many benches along the way, a cold drink, and relax in the serenity and beauty. Be careful…the bird chatter will lull you to sleep!

Spoonbills, Flamingos, And Owls, Oh My!

If you’re a bird nerd like we are, this park is paradise and the best place to get up close and personal. And trust us, they are not camera-shy.

Here are a few lovelies you might see:

• Tailless woodpeckers
• Whooping cranes
• Gorgeous Roseate spoonbills
• Majestic Great Blue Herons
• Hawks
• Bald eagles
• Flamingos
• Owls

These rescues are living out their best Florida life in spacious enclosures and ready to entertain!

Boat Ride or Tram? Your Florida Choose-Your-Own-Adventure.

Getting into the park offers two options: hop aboard a narrated pontoon boat ride through the peaceful waters of Pepper Creek, or take a shaded tram ride to the main entrance.

The boat is the better choice for first-time visitors. It’s a quiet, 15-minute cruise through natural wetlands, with guides sharing fun facts and history along the way. Additionally, it’s a great way to observe local wildlife in its natural habitat!

Wildlife Encounters That Stick With You.

Educational doesn’t have to mean boring. The park offers daily wildlife programs where rangers introduce visitors to a variety of captive animals like alligators, red wolves, birds of prey, and yes, even manatees. 

You’ll leave knowing more about Florida’s amazing ecosystems, threats to native species, and how to support conservation efforts. And let’s be honest, it’s hard to forget a presentation when a hawk is staring at you from three feet away.

Perfect for Families, Couples, and Solo Nature Lovers.

Whether you’re wrangling toddlers, seeking a peaceful walk with your partner, or exploring solo with a camera and a coffee, this park fits the bill. It’s well-maintained, easy to navigate, and full of sights that captivate all ages.

Kid-friendly perks include:

• Stroller access everywhere
• Picnic areas with shade – YES, please!
• Interactive exhibits and Children’s Education Center
• Friendly volunteers and rangers

And unlike most Florida attractions, this one won’t drain your wallet. Admission is affordable, and parking is free. Even better, grab a Florida State Park Pass! 

PRO TIP– If you find yourself visiting during a hot and humid day (most likely you will), WANDER to the snake encounter where you will not only cool off in the AC, but also get to explore these MAGNIFICENT reptiles!

When’s the Best Time to Visit?

The beauty of Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is that it’s open 365 days a year, and each season offers something unique:

• Winter: Prime manatee season
• Spring: Wildflowers and peak birdwatching
• Summer: Lush greenery and fewer crowds
• Fall: Cooler temps and peaceful trails

Just remember: Florida weather changes quickly. Bring water, sunscreen, and maybe an umbrella. Just in case Mother Nature gets feisty!

Other Things to Do Near Homosassa Springs.

If you’re making a day of it, and we think you should, don’t miss these nearby attractions:

• Crystal River: another great spot for kayaking with manatees
• Weeki Wachee Springs: home of the world-famous mermaid show
• Three Sisters Springs: breathtaking kayaking and paddleboarding
• Ultimate Day Trip To Homosassa: quirky shops, fresh seafood, and waterfront views
• Crumps’ Landing for AMAZING fresh seafood!
• Florida Cracker Kitchen: A MUST-VISIT if you’re in the area. YOU’RE WELCOME!

This stretch of Florida’s Nature Coast is full of underrated Florida hidden gems.

How to Find the Wild: Contact + Location + Costs.

Location:
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
4150 S Suncoast Blvd, Homosassa, FL 34446 | (352) 628-5343 | FloridaStateParks.org/Homosassa

Open 365 days a year from 9 AM to 5:30 PM
(Last entry at 4:45 PM: (manatees need their beauty rest.)

• Adults (13+): $13
• Kids (6–12): $5
• Children under 6: Free (a.k.a. Florida’s smallest wildlife fans)
• Boat ride included with admission — and yes, it’s worth it.

PIN FOR LATER

Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park Is A Must-See Slice of Old Florida.

 Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is a refreshing return to roots. It’s wild, it’s weird, and it’s wonderfully Floridian.

So whether you come for the manatees, pay tribute to the late Lu the Hippo, or the birds, you’ll leave with something even better…a new appreciation for Florida’s wild heart. HAPPY WANDERING!