Highlands Hammock State Park
One of Florida´s oldest parks, opening to the public in 1931, this park was established when local citizens came together to promote the hammock as a candidate for national park status. During the Great Depression, just prior to World War II, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) developed additional park facilities and the beginnings of a botanical garden. Many visitors enjoy bicycling the scenic 3-mile loop drive or hiking along the park´s nine trails. An elevated boardwalk traverses an old-growth cypress swamp. Picnicking is another popular activity as are ranger-guided tours of the park.
Highlands Hammock offers a full-facility campground, as well as a youth/group tent campground. A recreation hall is available for rental, as are several picnic pavilions. A museum showcasing the history of the CCC is open 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Located on County Road 634, four miles west of Sebring.
Activities at Highlands Hammock State Park
BICYCLING
A paved loop drive through the hammock offers nature study and is ideal for cyclists as bicycles are not permitted on the nature trails. This drive is smooth and suitable for roller-blading, or skating. A six-mile "off roadway" bicycle trail is also available and is best suited for fat-tired bikes. See the results of our prescribed burn and the restoration it has created.
Bike rentals are available at the ranger station.
CAMPFIRE CIRCLES
A gathering place for Saturday evening campfire programs presented by park staff, contact Ranger Station for next scheduled program topic and meeting time.
CAMPING, EQUESTRIAN
Equestrian camping area currently under construction- to be opened at later date. Equestrian trails are available for those owning their own horses. Call (863) 386-6094 for more information on the equestrian trails.
CAMPING, FULL FACILITY
This family campground offers water and electric hookups, a dump station, access to restrooms with shower facilities, and laundry and dish washing areas. Nearly all sites offer some shade; however, open spots can be found for those who love the sun or want to ensure clear satellite reception. A recreation hall with full kitchen, large seating area, restrooms and grill is nearby and available for renting for reunions, rallies or large events.
The campground is just a short walk from the state Civilian Conservation Corps Museum, and picnic area. Playgrounds and bike trails, along with nine different nature trails are also available. White-tail deer frequent the campground in the early morning hours and alligators are routinely seen from the popular Cypress Swamp Trail, just a short drive or bike ride away. Ranger-guided programs and camper social activities during the winter season provide additional activities for visitors to enjoy. Well behaved pets are welcome in the campground.
- Maximum RV length = 50 ft.
- Reservations: Reservations may be made up to 11 months in advance through ReserveAmerica. Book Online or call (800) 326-3521 (8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.) or TDD (888) 433-0287.
CAMPING, GROUP
A primitive group camp is available for organized groups of six or more. Youths must be chaperoned by at least one adult, 21 years of age or older, for each 10 youths. The primitive site includes a grill, tables and a pit type toilet nearby. Full service restrooms are available in the family campground. Call the park at (863) 386-6094 to make reservations.
CAMPING, PRIMITIVE
Drive-to wilderness sites, located in an open pine flatwood area, have ground fire rings, picnic tables and a pit toilet, but no electricity or running water. Showers are available at the family campground. Youths must be chaperoned by at least one adult, 21 years of age or older, for each 10 youths.
CAMPING, YOUTH
A short drive from the park entrance, the youth campsite is located in a shaded oak hammock. Restrooms with hot and cold water, electricity, a shower, camp fire ring and picnic tables are provided. Call the park at (863) 386-6094 to make reservations.
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