Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park

Overview

Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is a renowned wildlife park in Florida, known for its natural springs and wildlife exhibits. It offers a unique opportunity to see manatees, bears, and other native animals in a natural setting.

The park is home to the largest natural spring in Florida, providing a critical habitat for manatees and other wildlife. It's also a significant educational and conservation site.

Nature Reserve Animal Exhibits

Location

Address

9350 W Fishbowl Drive, Homosassa, Florida

Neighborhood: Homosassa Springs

Coordinates

28.761900, -82.531700

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM

Admission

Adults

$20

Children

$12 (ages 6-12)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and animals are most active

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-5 hours

Full Experience

full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

warm and pleasant

• manatee viewing
• spring wildflowers

summer

hot and humid

• extended exhibit hours

autumn

comfortable and cool

• fall foliage
• cooler temperatures

winter

cool and occasionally cold

• holiday lights
• winter wildlife exhibits

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Bring identification
Check weather conditions
Wear comfortable shoes
Carry water and sunscreen

What to Bring

essential

ID park tickets water sunscreen

seasonal

light jacket (winter) umbrella (summer) rain poncho (summer)

not allowed

drones pets (except service animals) outside food (in certain areas) large bags or backpacks

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate (some walking and standing required)

• dehydration
• sun exposure
• uneven pathways

Medical facilities: first aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit cards, debit cards

Currency

US dollars

Typical Costs

entry $20 (adults)

parking $10

food $10-$15

souvenirs $10-$30

guided tours $20-$50

Dress Code

casual and comfortable, comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, hat, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, inappropriate or offensive clothing, open-toed shoes (for certain exhibits)

Booking Tips

• at least 1-2 weeks in advance for peak seasons
• official park website
• 48 hours in advance for a full refund
• online tickets, timed entry

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

Bike rental

Tram tours

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Food options

Digital Services

Mobile App

Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park

Size: 45 MB

Features: Park map, Wildlife guides, Ticket booking, Event calendar, Audio tours

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe, Picnic areas

Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafe, Picnic areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Tampa International Airport

Distance: 90 km

Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

taxi

$120-$150 1 hour 15 minutes

public_transport

$20-$30 2 hours 30 minutes

From City Center

Distance: 10 km

bus

$2.50 20 minutes

taxi

$20-$25 15 minutes

car

15 minutes

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: The park offers a unique opportunity to see Florida's native wildlife in a natural setting, and it's a significant part of the local community's identity and conservation efforts.

Historical Significance: The park was established in 1947 and has been a vital site for wildlife conservation and education in Florida. It played a significant role in the conservation of the West Indian manatee.

Insider Tips

Visit the park on a weekday for a more peaceful experience
Arrive early to see the most active wildlife
Check the park's social media for updates on special events and wildlife sightings
Support local businesses and restaurants in the surrounding area

Local Recommendations

• Try the local seafood at nearby restaurants
• Visit the nearby Homosassa Springs Historical Society Museum
• Ask about guided wildlife tours for a more in-depth experience

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

manatee Manatee

bear Bear

Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Homosassa Spring

Best Time: early morning or late afternoon

Tips: use natural light, capture the spring's clarity and wildlife

Result: stunning nature shots

#HomosassaSprings #FloridaWildlife #NatureLovers

Manatee Exhibit

Best Time: morning or late afternoon

Tips: get low for unique angles, capture manatees interacting

Result: heartwarming manatee encounters

#ManateeLove #SaveTheManatees #WildlifePhotography

Wild Florida Boardwalk

Best Time: sunset

Tips: use silhouettes, capture reflections in the water

Result: serene and picturesque landscapes

#WildFlorida #NatureWalks #SunsetViews

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, designated wildlife viewing areas

prohibited areas indoor exhibits, restricted wildlife areas

flash photography not allowed in most exhibits

commercial photography permit required

drone policy prohibited without special permit

tripod policy allowed in designated areas, restricted during peak hours

selfie sticks allowed, but be mindful of other visitors

Nearby Attractions

Homosassa Springs Historical Society Museum

Distance: 2 km

Walking: 25 minutes

Type: Museum

Homosassa River

Distance: 1.5 km

Walking: 20 minutes

Type: Natural Attraction

Homosassa Springs Golf & Country Club

Distance: 3 km

Walking: 35 minutes

Type: Golf Course

Citrus County Bike Trail

Distance: 4 km

Walking: 50 minutes

Type: Outdoor Activity

Crystal River

Distance: 15 km

Walking: not walkable