Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park Tours
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Set on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is best known for its population of West Indian manatees. The park is primarily a rehabilitation center for the creatures, which swim in the freshwater spring while they are treated. On land, native Florida wildlife thrives in the dense surrounding forest.
The Basics
Homosassa Springs houses treasures both on land and below the water’s surface. Head to the Fish Bowl underwater observatory to see the manatees and 34 varieties of fish at close range, or board a pontoon boat to cruise the Homosassa River, keeping an eye out for gators, turtles, and otters, plus dozens of bird species. A Wildlife Walk winds through the forest, offering a chance to spot elusive wolves, bobcats, and panthers. Most tours of the park leave from Orlando and include opportunities to swim and snorkel with the docile manatees in nearby Crystal River.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The park is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, with ramps, elevators, and accessible boats and trams.
- Picnic areas are located along the Garden of the Springs and near the Fish Bowl.
- The Wildside Café, located at the park’s west entrance, offers concessions and coffee.
- While pets are not allowed in the park, a free kennel at the entrance offers a place to house your pet while you explore.
How to Get There
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is located off Highway 19 near Homosassa Springs, roughly 70 minutes from Tampa and 90 minutes from Orlando by road. Parking is available on site.
When to Get There
Plan to spend about four hours at Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park to hit all the walking trails, enjoy the educational programs, and take a pontoon boat tour. Winter is an especially good time to visit because the manatee population typically peaks during this season.
West Indian Manatees
Also known as the sea cow, West Indian manatees inhabit Florida’s freshwater springs. Slow-moving bottom feeders, these docile animals are at high risk for being injured by boat propellers. Since a dip in population in the 1990s, the manatees have been protected under the Endangered Species Act, and their population has rebounded to around 6,000 individuals in Florida.
Address: 4150 South Suncoast Boulevard, Homosassa, Florida 34448, USA
Admission: Varies
3 Tours and Activities to Experience Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
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VIP Nature Coast and Springs Day Trip from Orlando, Max Group of 4
Manatees, Hippos, Ruins, and Mermaids! Escape the bustle and theme parks of Orlando and venture to The Nature Coast. You will encounter mermaids, alligators, manatees, sponge divers, and more on this unforgettable excursion with your own very small group and personal photographer!
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From
$295.00
From
$295.00
The Real Florida Manatee Adventure
Get ready for a slam packed fun filled day on this Real Florida Adventure. Start your morning with breakfast and an educational overview as you depart to Crystal River. Upon arrival you’ll gear up and board your boat for your manatee swim and snorkel. Learn all about the West Indian manatee from your Captain before diving into the crystal-clear water to snorkel with these gentle giants. Don’t forget those underwater cameras! After your swim it’s off to Homosassa Springs State Park for lunch and a leisurely stroll around one of Florida’s best kept secrets. Before heading back to Orlando, enjoy a pit stop to ride an exhilarating airboat ride on the Withlacoochee River. Hold onto your hats cause this need for speed thrill ride is the perfect way to end the day.
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From
$139.00
From
$139.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Crystal River Tour with Manatee Swim and Everglades Airboat Ride
Spend a day in one of central Florida’s natural manatee habitats on this guided cruise and Everglades airboat adventure. Begin with a boat ride on the Crystal River. Then, swim and snorkel in an area known for manatee sightings, and before an exciting airboat tour on the Withlacoochee River. Visit Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, one of the best places in the state to watch manatees, as well as other animals, such as bears, panthers, and alligators. Breakfast and a picnic lunch, plus an Orlando-area hotel pickup and drop-off are all included.
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From
$138.99
From
$138.99
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
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