State: Florida
Address 1: 5931 Hammock Road
City: Sebring
Zip: 33872
Phone: 941-386-6094
Open all Year: Yes
Electric Water: 143
Camp URL: http://www.floridastateparks.org/highlandshammock/default.cfm
Full Hook: Yes
Free: No
About: 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. For equestrians, there is an 11-mile, day-use trail. 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 full-service restaurant is located on the park grounds. For schedule and catering information, call (863) 385-7025. 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.
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. There are four equestrian sites and miles of equestrian trails for those who enjoy camping with their horses. 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, Hammock Inn restaurant 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.
There are four equestrian sites and miles of equestrian trails for those who enjoy camping with their horses.
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.
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. Call the park at (863) 386-6094 to make reservations. Call the park at (863) 386-6094 to make reservations.
