Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
Homosassa Springs, FL
A spring-fed park where an underwater observatory lets you watch manatees and schools of fish at eye level. A pontoon boat runs from the US-19 visitor center to the main spring.
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is near Homosassa Springs in Citrus County on Florida's Gulf Coast. At its center is a spring where freshwater and saltwater fish swim. From the floating Fish Bowl Underwater Observatory you see fish and manatees at eye level, and a screen on the sundeck shows the underwater view live. The park is named after Elmyra Felburn Schiller (1943-2009), a benefactor of the Florida state park system.
A paved path with boardwalks runs about 1.8 km (1.1 miles) through the park. Boats on Pepper Creek connect the visitor center on US 19 with the west entrance, weather permitting. The spot was already a tourist destination in the early 20th century, when railroad passengers walked to the spring; the state acquired the land later. Lu the hippo lived here for decades, appeared on television shows, and died in June 2025 at the age of 65. Check the park's current offerings before you go, as some shops and facilities are temporarily closed (as of October 2026).
- Nearest town
- Homosassa Springs, FL
- Category
- Nature & parks
- GPS
- 28.7996, -82.5876
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually November–April. Still fine, with some compromises, in May and September–October. Hot in June–August. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Sources
Featured in these trip guides
Nearby
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Campsites nearby
- Rock Crusher Canyon RV ResortCampsite5 mi from Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
- Chassahowitzka River CampgroundMotorhome stopover6 mi from Homosassa Springs Wildlife State ParkMotorhomesElectricityWi-Fi
- Tillis Hill Equestrian CampgroundCampsite12 mi from Homosassa Springs Wildlife State ParkTentsCaravansDrinking waterShowersToiletsWaste disposalDogs allowed
- Nature Coast Landings RV ResortMotorhome stopover15 mi from Homosassa Springs Wildlife State ParkMotorhomes
- Big Bass Village RV ParkMotorhome stopover16 mi from Homosassa Springs Wildlife State ParkMotorhomes
- Mary's Fish CampCampsite18 mi from Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
All campsites in Florida · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park?
Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is in Homosassa Springs, FL, at GPS 28.7996, -82.5876. It is about 7 mi from Crystal River.
Can you camp near Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Rock Crusher Canyon RV Resort, about 5 mi away; within 25 mi there are 30 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
Which road trips pass Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park?
Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Manatees and springs on Florida’s Nature Coast.
What is there to see near Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park?
Places worth a stop nearby: Three Sisters Springs (6 mi), Weeki Wachee Springs (20 mi), Rainbow Springs State Park (23 mi) and Cedar Key (36 mi).
When is the best time to visit Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park?
The most pleasant months are usually November–April. Still fine, with some compromises, in May and September–October. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)