Did you know Highlands Hammock State Park shelters one of Florida’s oldest cypress swamps, with trees dating back over 1,000 years? Established in 1931, this ancient wilderness predates Florida’s state park system itself and stands as a living museum of Old Florida’s natural splendor. Just four miles west of Sebring, this 9,000-acre sanctuary offers visitors a rare glimpse into pristine ecosystems that have remained largely unchanged for millennia.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Highlands Hammock State Park is located at 5931 Hammock Road, Sebring, Florida 33872. The park sits approximately 4 miles west of U.S. Highway 27 in central Florida, making it accessible from several major cities.
From Major Cities
- Orlando: 145 km (90 miles) south, approximately 1.5 hours by car
- Tampa: 137 km (85 miles) southeast, approximately 1.5 hours by car
- Miami: 241 km (150 miles) northwest, approximately 2.5 hours by car
By Air
The nearest major airports are:
- Orlando International Airport (MCO)
- Tampa International Airport (TPA)
- Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers
Ready to start your adventure? Find the best flight deals to Florida now!
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Recommended Seasons
- Late Fall (October-November): Comfortable temperatures between 18-26°C (65-80°F) with lower humidity and fewer insects.
- Winter (December-February): Mild days around 21°C (70°F) and cool nights around 10°C (50°F). Perfect for hiking and wildlife viewing.
- Spring (March-April): Pleasant temperatures before summer heat arrives, with wildflowers in bloom.
Seasons to Avoid
- Summer (June-September): Extremely hot and humid with temperatures regularly exceeding 32°C (90°F). Afternoon thunderstorms are common.
- Hurricane Season (June-November): Peak hurricane risk is August through October. Check weather forecasts if planning a visit during these months.
Insider Tip: The park is open 365 days a year from 8 a.m. until sunset. For the best wildlife viewing opportunities, arrive early in the morning or visit in the late afternoon when animals are most active.
Getting Around Locally
Self-Guided Options
- Car: The park features a 3-mile one-way loop drive that allows visitors to access trailheads and picnic areas.
- Bicycle: The loop road is perfect for cycling. Bring your own bike to enjoy the scenic route at a leisurely pace.
- Walking: Nine nature trails ranging from 0.2 to 1.1 km (0.1 to 0.7 miles) allow you to explore different ecosystems.
Guided Options
- Tram Tours: The park offers ranger-led tram tours that take you through restricted areas to view wildlife up close. Tours last approximately 1 hour.
- Ranger Programs: Check at the visitor center for scheduled ranger-led walks and educational programs.
Need a vehicle to explore the park and surrounding areas?
Where to Stay
Camping in the Park
Note: As of June 2025, the family campground at Highlands Hammock State Park is closed for renovation. Check the official website for current status.
When open, the campground offers:
- 138 campsites with water and electrical hookups
- Restrooms with hot showers
- Laundry facilities
- Dump station
- Pets allowed (with restrictions)
Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance through ReserveAmerica.
Nearby Hotels
Sebring (10-15 minutes from the park) offers several accommodation options:
- Inn on the Lakes – Upscale lakefront hotel
- Residence Inn by Marriott Sebring
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Sebring
- La Quinta Inn & Suites Sebring
These hotels provide comfortable bases for exploring the park while enjoying modern amenities.
Vacation Rentals
The Sebring area offers numerous vacation homes and cottages, many with lake views or access:
- Lakefront cottages on Lake Jackson
- Golf course condos near Sebring Golf Club
- Country homes with acreage near the park
These options are ideal for families or groups wanting more space and privacy.
Find Your Perfect Stay Near Highlands Hammock
From camping under ancient oaks to comfortable hotels in nearby Sebring, book your accommodations now for the best rates.
Dining & Local Cuisine
Dining in the Park
Highlands Hammock State Park has limited dining facilities:
- Hammock Inn: A small concession stand near the park entrance that offers snacks, cold drinks, and ice cream. Hours vary seasonally.
- Picnic Areas: Multiple picnic areas with tables and grills are available throughout the park. The main picnic area near the entrance has pavilions, restrooms, and a playground.
Tip: Pack a cooler with lunch, snacks, and plenty of water, especially if you plan to spend the full day exploring the trails.
Nearby Dining Options
Sebring (10-15 minutes from the park) offers various dining options:
- Cowpoke’s Watering Hole: Local steakhouse with Florida flair
- Faded Bistro & Beer Garden: Farm-to-table cuisine with outdoor seating
- Don Jose Mexican Restaurant: Authentic Mexican dishes
- Chicanes Restaurant: At Inn on the Lakes, offering upscale dining
- Sebring Diner: Classic American breakfast and lunch
Local Specialty: While in central Florida, try fresh citrus, locally caught fish, and southern specialties like key lime pie, conch fritters, and swamp cabbage (hearts of palm).
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Must-See Trails
- Cypress Swamp Trail: 0.4 km (0.25 mile) boardwalk through ancient cypress swamp with massive trees. The historic catwalk section offers unique perspectives.
- Ancient Hammock Trail: 0.8 km (0.5 mile) path through one of Florida’s most pristine hammock forests with trees over 1,000 years old.
- Alexander Blair Big Oak Trail: Features one of the largest live oak trees in the park with a massive canopy.
- Richard Lieber Memorial Trail: 0.3 km (0.2 mile) accessible boardwalk suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Wildlife Viewing
The park is home to diverse wildlife including:
- White-tailed deer
- Alligators
- Florida black bears (rare sightings)
- Florida panthers (extremely rare)
- Over 100 bird species including barred owls, pileated woodpeckers, and wading birds
Best Spots: Cypress Swamp Trail for alligators, Little Charlie Bowlegs Creek for wading birds, and early morning on the loop road for deer.
Ranger-Led Activities
- Tram Tours: Guided tram rides through restricted areas of the park. Tours last approximately 1 hour and cost $5 for adults, $3 for children ages 6-12, and free for children under 6.
- Ranger Programs: Educational talks and guided walks focusing on the park’s ecology, wildlife, and history.
- Night Programs: Occasional evening programs including owl prowls and star gazing events.
Check at the Ranger Station for the current schedule of programs.
Enhance Your Highlands Hammock Experience
Discover guided tours, wildlife excursions, and outdoor adventures in and around Highlands Hammock State Park.
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
Civilian Conservation Corps Museum
One of the park’s highlights is the CCC Museum, which tells the story of the young men who built Florida’s first state parks during the Great Depression. The museum features:
- Historic photographs and artifacts
- Original tools and equipment
- Personal stories and letters
- Exhibits on daily life in the CCC camps
- Information about the New Deal and its impact on Florida
The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and admission is included with park entry.
Annual Events & Festivals
Highlands Hammock State Park hosts several special events throughout the year:
- Music in the Park: Concert series typically held on Saturday evenings in the fall and spring.
- CCC Festival: November celebration honoring the Civilian Conservation Corps legacy with demonstrations, exhibits, and activities.
- Earth Day Celebration: April event featuring environmental education activities and guided walks.
- Highlands Hammock Holiday: December event with festive lights and holiday activities.
Check the park’s official website or call ahead for current event schedules.
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Biking
The 3-mile (4.8 km) one-way loop road is perfect for cycling, offering a scenic route through the park’s diverse habitats. The paved surface is suitable for all types of bicycles and skill levels.
Tip: Bring your own bikes as rentals are not available in the park. Early morning rides offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Fishing
Catch-and-release fishing is permitted at the nearby Seven Lakes management unit. Common catches include:
- Largemouth bass
- Bluegill
- Catfish
A valid Florida fishing license is required for anglers aged 16 and older.
Photography
Highlands Hammock offers exceptional photography opportunities:
- Cypress Swamp Trail: Dramatic cypress knees and reflections
- Ancient Hammock Trail: Massive old-growth trees and filtered light
- Early Morning: Misty conditions and active wildlife
- Sunset: Golden light filtering through the hammock
Tip: Bring a tripod for low-light conditions in the dense hammock.
Nearby Outdoor Activities
- Lake Jackson: 15 minutes from the park, offering boating, fishing, and water sports
- Sebring International Raceway: Famous racetrack hosting various motorsport events
- Avon Park Air Force Range: Offers seasonal hunting opportunities
- Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park: About 1 hour away, featuring Florida dry prairie ecosystem
Birding
With over 100 bird species, the park is a birder’s paradise. Notable species include:
- Barred owls
- Pileated woodpeckers
- Swallow-tailed kites (seasonal)
- Limpkins
- Various warblers, especially during migration
Best Spots: Cypress Swamp Trail, Little Charlie Bowlegs Creek, and the park’s wetland areas.
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Wildlife Safety: Never feed or approach wildlife, especially alligators. Keep a safe distance of at least 15 meters (50 feet) from alligators and other wild animals.
Park Safety
- Stay on designated trails to protect both yourself and sensitive ecosystems.
- Bring plenty of water and stay hydrated, especially in warm weather.
- Use insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes and ticks.
- Check for ticks after hiking through wooded areas.
- Be aware of weather conditions and seek shelter during thunderstorms.
- ATVs, UTVs, and drones are prohibited in the park.
Etiquette & Conservation
- Pack out all trash to help preserve the park’s natural beauty.
- Keep noise levels low to avoid disturbing wildlife and other visitors.
- Do not remove plants, animals, or artifacts from the park.
- Respect closed areas and follow all posted signs and regulations.
- Pets must be kept on a 6-foot leash at all times and are not allowed on boardwalks or in buildings.
Park Regulations: Highlands Hammock State Park is open from 8:00 AM until sunset, 365 days a year. The entrance fee is $6 per vehicle (up to 8 people) or $4 for single-occupant vehicles.
Visitor Comments About Highlands Hammock State Park
“The ancient cypress trees and boardwalk trails made me feel like I’d stepped back in time. We spotted three alligators and countless birds during our visit. Don’t miss the tram tour—it takes you to restricted areas you can’t see otherwise!”
“As a photographer, I found Highlands Hammock to be a paradise. The light filtering through the moss-draped oaks created magical scenes. The park staff were incredibly knowledgeable and pointed out several hidden gems along the trails.”
“We camped for three nights and loved every minute. The campground was well-maintained with good facilities. The CCC Museum was an unexpected highlight—fascinating to learn about the park’s history and the young men who built it during the Depression.”
Practical Travel Tips
What to Pack
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
- Insect repellent (essential year-round)
- Sunscreen and hat
- Refillable water bottle
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Camera with zoom lens for wildlife
- Light rain jacket (afternoon showers are common)
- Small backpack for trail essentials
Accessibility
Highlands Hammock offers several accessible features:
- Richard Lieber Memorial Trail – fully accessible boardwalk
- Tram tours – accessible for visitors with mobility limitations
- Accessible restrooms at the main picnic area and visitor center
- Several accessible picnic tables and pavilions
- Accessible fishing platform at Seven Lakes area
Contact the park in advance for specific accessibility needs.
Money-Saving Tips
- Purchase an Annual Florida State Parks Pass if you plan to visit multiple parks
- Pack a cooler with lunch and snacks instead of leaving the park to find food
- Visit on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds
- Combine your visit with other nearby attractions for a multi-day itinerary
- Camp in the park (when available) instead of staying at hotels
Start Planning Your Highlands Hammock Adventure
From ancient cypress swamps to historic CCC structures, Highlands Hammock State Park offers a glimpse into Florida’s wild past. Book your trip today!
Experience the Real Florida at Highlands Hammock
Highlands Hammock State Park stands as a living monument to Florida’s natural heritage, offering visitors a rare glimpse into ecosystems that have remained largely unchanged for millennia. From the ancient cypress swamps to the thousand-year-old oaks, this park preserves a piece of wild Florida that grows increasingly precious in our modern world.
Whether you’re hiking the scenic trails, spotting alligators from the boardwalk, or learning about the park’s fascinating CCC history, Highlands Hammock delivers an authentic Florida experience that can’t be found in the state’s more commercial attractions. Pack your bug spray and sense of adventure—this ancient Florida wilderness awaits!
The above is subject to change.
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