Highlands Hammock State Park

Category: State park

Address: 5931 Hammock Rd, Sebring, FL 33872, USA

Phone: +18633866094

Opening hours

Sunday: 8AM–7PM

Monday: 8AM–7PM

Tuesday: 8AM–7PM

Wednesday: 8AM–7PM

Thursday: 8AM–7PM

Friday: 8AM–7PM

Saturday: 8AM–7PM

Reviews

Jay M

Jun 5, 2022

The park itself is just okay. Nowhere to fish, swim, or do anything involving water. Hiking trails through the swamp/woods is about it. The campground was really disappointing. There is NO privacy or separation between campsites. Hopefully, you'll have good neighbors when you visit. We had a family with 4 little kids that were constantly walking through our site and then screaming and crying when the parents told them to stay put. Definitely won't return.

Brad Loncar

Mar 26, 2022

I really wanted to give this park a high rating due to its historic nature (it is Florida’s first state park) and also because some parts are truly awesome (Cypress Swamp Trail), but I just couldn’t. The problem is that all the trails are very short (30 minutes are less). Many are connected so you can make a long walk of it but it still tends to take the fun out of things. You might even find yourself driving from one trail to another, which isn’t much fun. The Cypress Swamp Trail is a must see piece of Florida, but I wish it was 2x or 3x larger. One cool thing about this park is the old boardwalks on various trails, some of which are only single rail. There are also many impressive trees on other trails that are highlights. Given that Cypress Swamp is the most popular trail, it has a decent sized parking lot. Others typically had smaller lots with 5-6 spaces. On a Saturday in March, some were filled up. Almost all the trail walking here is under the shade. Note: if you drive into the park from the east, the gravel road is VERY bumpy for cars so be careful.

Vonnie Hornburg

Dec 30, 2021

My parents treated my teenage boys, husband and I to the tram tour during our holiday visit. Ed, our guide was FANTASTIC! We learned so much about this park as well as other Florida Parks. We were incredibly impressed with the amount of wildlife along the tour. Great items at the shop! Perfect way to spend an afternoon for all ages!

Joseph Adams

Dec 28, 2021

When we visited we used the tram ride and OH BOY was it cool! We were promised vegetation and mosquitoes and possibly some wildlife. We ended up with more wildlife than mosquitoes. The tram ride was about $10 a ticket and we’ll worth it! 10/10 recommended for tourists who want to see some gators and learn a bit about Florida vegetation and wildlife. Stop into the gift shop for some cool displays of an extinct tortuous shell and a bear and bobcat. There are some neat gifts and snack as well.

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Questions & Answers

Is the Cypress Swamp Trail open yet?

Steffanie Immerfall | Jun 11, 2019
Denise Whitaker | Jun 12, 2019

Yes

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Is Highlands Hammock pet friendly?

mary chiu | Jun 11, 2018
Gaming Victories | Jun 12, 2018

Yes but keep a close eye on them with a leash there are gators. Be careful.

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Is there a firefly watching tour?

Katkat Lin | Jun 11, 2018
[email protected] Some | Jun 12, 2018

Yes summer time only

At This park is possible camping?

Richard Tacoronte | Jun 10, 2021
Kathy Lambert | Jun 11, 2021

Yes! Tents & RVs

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Is the campground open for over night camping

Julie Phillips | Jun 10, 2021
Vijai Kingston | Jun 11, 2021

Yes, we camped for couple of nights Overnight rain made the grounds soggy

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I need the address and phone number of highland park estates in highland county fl.

Norely Franco | Jun 10, 2020
Mike Orr | Jun 11, 2020

Call 411

Is the giant Laurel oak still there ?

Anna Houghtaling | Sep 13, 2021
Miguel Sierra | Sep 14, 2021

Yes the 1000 years old

Yes as 03_05_21

Vivi wenzel | Jun 10, 2021
Sarah SVITKO | Jun 11, 2021

Not my favorite place to camp.

Why do I notice speed limits are not being enforced? ALOT of through traffic are well above 20 mph. Should not have a pedestrian hit BEFORE law is enforced....w0 +

monte goodwin | Jun 10, 2021
Southern Cups GMack FamBam | Jun 11, 2021

Have you told the camp keeper about it? Or maybe if you see the car parked ask them nicely to slow down. We just camped over the weekend & almost had the police called on us by the camp keeper because we had music playing at 12 am. We now know that campground isn't for us because we're to wild on site 🤦‍♀️

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Can you take your dogs?

Tina Knepper | Jun 10, 2021
Adam Ward | Jun 11, 2021

Yes you can people go with rvs and they're dogs all the time just check the trail signs for pets or no pets.

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Do you guys know if in the wilderness area (Tent Area) has water and electricity in the campsite? Thanks.

Just Games | Jun 10, 2020
Don Kerner | Jun 11, 2020

Youth camping on the back of the park has two fire rings, a bathhouse, two stalls, two sinks and single shower. A pavilion in back. All must be cleaned by the youth for inspection upon departure.therr is a water spicket on pvc pipe, you have to look for it. For youth group camping it's good. Our AOL Scouts had a blast.

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Are the tent camping sites spread out nicely so that your not super close to your neighbor?

Lisa Snyder | Jun 10, 2020
Cheryl Humphrey | Jun 11, 2020

In the primitive area, they are fairly spread out. In the electric sites, closer, but still enough room for comfort.

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Do you have horse for rental?

Eder Paredes | Jun 10, 2020
Pamela Miller | Jun 11, 2020

No

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Is there any maps for day hiking?

Mike Orr | Jun 10, 2020
Ashleigh Keister | Jun 11, 2020

Yes at the office when you go in

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How far do the trails go?

Marc Santos | Jun 10, 2020
kylie cates | Jun 11, 2020

Trails are decent enough in length recommend a walking stick for added support for those with back or hip issues

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Do we need reservations

mark turgeon | Jun 10, 2020
free tea | Jun 11, 2020

In the summer, not really unless you want a specific site. From October through about March you should get a reservation, especially holiday weekends.

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Do the showers have hot water?

Shawna Whitlock | Jun 11, 2019
Keith Dragon | Jun 12, 2019

Yes they do. The wash rooms are old but overall they aren't bad.

Do they rent bikes to go on the trails ?

Omar Osman | Jun 11, 2019
Ben Nixon | Jun 12, 2019

Yes

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Do they have a set up for weddings parties alchol friendly? Music?

pamela brant | Jun 11, 2019
Jim Van Dick | Jun 12, 2019

Not sure. Best thing would be to call.

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Is there a place to eat in the Hammock today?

Sara Franza | Jun 11, 2019
Anthony Narehood | Jun 12, 2019

There's a restaurant but it's usually closed. When it's open, it's really slow.

Are registered drones allowed to be flown here?

Katie LaLonde | Jun 11, 2019
Pablo Lopez | Jun 12, 2019

I hope not. I think theres far better places. The hammock is thick with trees, vegetation and lately a lot of water. I can't imagine retrieval of a lost drone would be fun. Plus its the type of place one goes to see nature not drones.

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We are expecting bad weather this memorial day weekend. Will the park still be open for camping?

Olga Bialuk | Jun 11, 2018
Edward Brockbank | Jun 12, 2018

Yes the park will be open. It's only going to rain

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Does Highlands Hammock State Park have grills

Elijah Hopkins | Jun 11, 2018
Bobbi Duncan | Jun 12, 2018

No. But have fire rings that has A Grill Grate On Them.

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Is there swimming area?

Penny Fout | Jun 11, 2018
Buttons Carpenter | Jun 12, 2018

There is no swimming here

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Is it dog friendly?

Robert | Jun 11, 2018
Robin Clark | Jun 12, 2018

Yes, but they need to be on a leash. No longer than 6 feet long and cannot go on some trails.

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does the snack bar serve pancake breakfast

ted flach | May 11, 2022
Esther Williard | May 12, 2022

I’ve never been there during that time. I never noticed a breakfast menu.

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Where do you get the tram ride and how much does it cost?

Connie Charles | Apr 11, 2022
Ari Adler | Apr 12, 2022

I was just there recently and if I remember correctly it was about $11 per person plus tax.

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I'm from Michigan,I have no motel,I was wondering if I can shower at campground,and how much

Connie Spires | Mar 12, 2022
Roving Nomad | Mar 13, 2022

Nope, you can't pay for a day pass and then shower. Showers and dump stations are only for registered campers. But I'm sure tons of self serving people do it anyway.

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Can you come in to the park after dark. If you are camping there?

Jack Porter | Feb 10, 2022
David Barnes | Feb 11, 2022

Yes, campers get gate code.

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Is there a 4X trail I can take my jeep on?

Rick Nehren | Jul 15, 2021
Ruben Barragan | Jul 16, 2021

Shirley is correct only horse or foot trails. You can also bike or drive around on a pavement road but no off road trails

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Is there anywhere to go swimming

ernie jillson | Jun 10, 2021
Brenda durden | Jun 11, 2021

No unless you're gonna try to swim with alligators

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Is the tram nature tour running?

walter marshall | Jun 10, 2021
Mason Whidden | Jun 11, 2021

Yes

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Is the cracker trail horses camping ooovernight in the

Betty Loveland | Jun 10, 2021
Michael Bowser | Jun 11, 2021

No horses in the State Park proper.

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Are there bike trail there?

Ted Haynes | Jun 10, 2021
Dia Kuve | Jun 11, 2021

Yes. A large circular road. Individual paths from there. There are boardwalks over the water with rails on one side.

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How handicap accessible is the park? Would I be able to do more than the parks lot and a short boardwalk? Are the trails compacted enough for an "off-roading" wheel to navigate?

zachary cozzie | Jun 10, 2021
Elias Thomas | Jun 11, 2021

There are trails that are wheelchair accessible, dirt walking paths, but there are a couple that are not such as the catwalk, which is a very narrow bridge with railing on one side surrounded by water. I hope this helps!

Are there Jeep trails at this park? Not looking for anything serious, just wanting something fun.

Dana Hood | Jun 10, 2021
Diana Hurley | Jun 11, 2021

No jeep trails

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Can you bring you dog?

Payton Davis | Jun 10, 2021
Mark | Jun 11, 2021

Yes. Normal leash and bark rules apply.

Are they renting the previlion for family gatherings?

Coweta Coleman | Jun 10, 2021
john bartosek | Jun 11, 2021

I was there two weeks ago and they we're not. The ranger said they were in the process of trying to get the tram and playground open to were it would comply with covet rules. Their number is online I would call and ask they could be renting it out now

By ROBERT TAYLOR TAXES

Pedro Ortiz | Jun 10, 2021
Glen Horner | Jun 11, 2021

Say what???

Hoping this park is still requiring masks and social distancing?

Cathy Austin | Jun 10, 2021
Lester Leavitt | Jun 11, 2021

Don't count on it after DeSantis phase 3 opening on September 25th.

Any mountain bike trails. Like singletracks?single-track? Or are they all multi-use trails

max fam | Jun 10, 2021
David Yates | Jun 11, 2021

All multi-use trails; nice riding but probably not what you're looking for. Alafia River State Park is the place to go in this area for serious mountain biking.

Can you kayak

Debra Smith | Jun 10, 2021
Kreg S. Starzonek | Jun 11, 2021

I didn't see any opportunities for that. It's more for hiking and biking.

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is fishing allowed

Joe NunYaBizNiz | Jun 10, 2021
Cindy Casavant | Jun 11, 2021

You have to walk for fishing none at campground

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How long is Cypress Swamp Trail? Is it an "easy" trail?

Jean Reed | Jun 10, 2021
Harelis Santis | Jun 11, 2021

Local schools do field trips and the students love it. Just watch your step where there is a rail on one side.

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Are the campgrounds staying open for the week of march 22 thru the 27th

map quest Lisle | Jun 10, 2020
Tom Imrie | Jun 11, 2020

Your best bet is to check the Florida Parks website, or call the park directly. I haven't heard anything that would suggest the parks are closing.

Dispersed camping is free?

Dog Face Bastard's Solo Motorcycle Adventure | Jun 10, 2020
Anthony Reed | Jun 11, 2020

I don't believe so.

Is Brett Baker still doing a concert on January 11, 2020 as I do not see it on your website?

Marge Feduchka | Jun 10, 2020
Jason Peliwo | Jun 11, 2020

Looks like it's Ben Prestage now. Not sure why the change as I don't work there. Just a patron myself.

Are firearms allowed?

Chris Hinman | Jun 10, 2020
Dexter Aviles | Jun 11, 2020

They have a sign that mentioned no firearms allowed. However, they don't ask for it at the time of check in. You can visit the website for specific information.

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Is there cell service?

Catherine Sell | Jun 10, 2020
Michael phillip Eisenberg (Mikey) | Jun 11, 2020

Yes in some spots you mite lose cell service but you will get service right back.

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Is there a 4x4 trail in the park?

Mike Orr | Jun 10, 2020
Lulu McElroy | Jun 11, 2020

Yes

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When is the best time of the year to do the firefly watching?

Magda Ardito | Jun 10, 2020
Sir Micheal | Jun 11, 2020

Generally April on, they need it warm, due to the length of the warmth in Florida it is my understanding that they have extended season, so unlike up north, they are out on large numbers. I will see what else I can find out.

Is there water hook up?

Sarah Donnelly | Jun 10, 2020
free tea | Jun 11, 2020

Yes, water and electric. No cable or sewer, but there is a dump station on site.

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What time the park close?

Jose Ramos | Jun 10, 2020
Jay Kinney | Jun 11, 2020

The park is open from sunrise to sunset.

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Does the park have the pink spoonbills?

Mike Borowski | Jun 10, 2020
Jay Kinney | Jun 11, 2020

Yes I have seen them, could be hit or miss. Try early morning or late afternoon. They aren't as active in the summer.

Is highlands hammock open on Sundays?

Shane Robbins | Jun 10, 2020
Gene McMullen | Jun 11, 2020

Yes

How much is it to just walk the trails?

Stephanie H | Jun 11, 2019
Dale S | Jun 12, 2019

Florida State Parks entrance fees are between four and $10 and pedestrian and extra persons and bicycles are $2

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Is there hunting allowed at this park location? Bow hunting or rifle hunting etheir? Or any.?

CHIK-O-STIK | Jun 10, 2020
I Watch Network | Jun 11, 2020

No hunting

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There are cabins to stay

Patrizia Boscaja | Jun 11, 2019
Dottie Crane | Jun 12, 2019

I have never seen cabins. better call

Can you drive up to the tent camping sites? Are the sites in an open field or are there tree to give you a little privacy?

Lauren Esposito | Jun 11, 2019
Wylma Temples | Jun 12, 2019

Yes, you can drive. There are lots of trees.

When does it close

Mohammed Qadri | Jun 10, 2020
I Watch Network | Jun 11, 2020

8am to sunset

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Are there any cabins @ " Inn "

Carroll Blakeman | Jun 11, 2019
Keith Dragon | Jun 12, 2019

None that you can rent

If we don't take the tram, could we still see gators? $20 is kinda pricey.

Google Account | Jun 11, 2019
Damaris Rose | Jun 12, 2019

The boardwalk has beautiful vistas even if the gators aren't in sight as was the case on our sunny and cool early January visit.

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How much is an annual pass just for walking?

Vickie Pinkston | Jun 11, 2019
Shane Sebor | Jun 12, 2019

Its only about 6 dollars for a day

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If you have a year pass can you walk into the park before opening at 8 am? Like if i wanted to get a hike in before working at 8?

jon gallant | Jun 11, 2019
Carrie DeMaio Johnson | Jun 12, 2019

Yes you can get in b4 hours

Is the Cypress Boardwalk open?

A Google User | Jun 11, 2019
Rodrigo Murillo | Jun 12, 2019

Yes the water level is good right now, it's open.

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Do they sell firewood and ice here for campers?

Lindsay Lacy | Jun 11, 2019
Chris Cassidy | Jun 12, 2019

Yes.....$3 ice 10lbs......$7.50 firewood

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Is there a gift shop, and if so, do they sell children's books and books on nature?

Jo Calizzi | Jun 11, 2019
Thomas Reardon | Jun 12, 2019

Yes to both questions.

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Are dirt bikes allowed?

Victor Estevez | Jun 11, 2019
Jason Ray | Jun 12, 2019

No. Autombiles, Travel Trailers, Campers, and golf carts only.

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How much is a wedding in park

Ck Ngoni | Jun 11, 2019
Michael Lewis | Jun 12, 2019

Pricing varies. Call park for details. 👍

Does Highlands Hammock have an email address

Isaac genho | Jun 11, 2019
Elena AM | Jun 12, 2019

https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/highlands-hammock-state-park

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Where in the park are pets allowed

Patti Dailey | Jun 11, 2019
Sherri Clark | Jun 12, 2019

The animals are allowed everywhere except for in the restrooms the banquet hall and in the store and the park is great

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Can you put a hammock up

Bobbijo Hall | Jun 11, 2019
Timothy Smith | Jun 12, 2019

They have all sizes and shapes and their historical hammock museum is amazing.

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How much does it cost?

sallie marczyk | Jun 11, 2019
Jacqueline Watkins | Jun 12, 2019

$6 day pass. $22 camping.

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Do you have a staying limit like xan i book for two months

Jessie Mcgrath | Jun 11, 2019
m b | Jun 12, 2019

2 weeks limits

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How many miles from Avon park FL

Damian Zackery | Jun 11, 2018
karie Fivecoate | Jun 12, 2018

Little more than 8 to 9. It's 3 miles from hammock road and 27 to the entrance to the park. It's about 15 miles total. Depends on where you are in Avon park though

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Is the Rd through the Hammock State Park between highlands and Hardee shutting down?

Lawrence Factor | Jun 11, 2018
George Peeples | Jun 12, 2018

Not that I know of

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On what days and times is the Manatee feeding?

Random Bird | Jun 11, 2018
Dennis LaPlace | Jun 12, 2018

No manatee......plenty of gators, turtles and birds......NO FEEDING WILDLIFE!

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Is there a restaurant in the park??

Pam Bushman | Jun 11, 2018
George Peeples | Jun 12, 2018

No restaurant

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Is there a bike trail

Elvira Lebon | Jun 11, 2018
Dennis Leadingham | Jun 12, 2018

Yes,excellent bike trails.

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Do they allow golf carts in the park?

Robert Boles | Jun 11, 2018
Dennis Leadingham | Jun 12, 2018

Not on the trails

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is the cypress swamp trail open

Donald Pollex | Jun 11, 2018
Donald Pollex | Jun 12, 2018

No I was just there and it's not open

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Can I walk my dog on any trails in the park?

Kelly Verge | Jun 11, 2018
Kevin “Open and” Shutt | Jun 12, 2018

Most trails yes. Just keep an eye out for the signs where a trail prohibits dogs.

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Are golf carts allowed?

Hollie Johnson | Jun 11, 2018
Kevin Beaver | Jun 12, 2018

Yes

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IS FISHING ALLOWED AND DO YOU NEED A LICENSE

Alice Hunt | Jun 11, 2018
Erwin Perera | Jun 12, 2018

To expand on Kevin's answer: there is catch-and-release fishing about three miles south east on Seven Lakes. The state of Florida does NOT require a fishing license for catch and release.

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DO YOU BUY THE TICKETS IN THE PARK FOR THE TRAM RIDE?

Carl Reese | Jun 11, 2018
Bruce McLeish | Jun 12, 2018

Yes

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What time are tram rides on Friday and Sat? How far ahead do you need to get tickets? What is the cost for the tram ride?

Karen Guckien | Jun 11, 2018
Sonya Davis | Jun 12, 2018

1 and 2:30 $10.00 a ticket At least 24 hours before your ride. It's a great tour and worth the price. We highly recommend. Kevin was very informative.

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Can I swim at highland hammock

Kelly Verge | Jun 11, 2018
Keep Moving | Jun 12, 2018

No, you can't even kayak or canoe.

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What's the weather like?😁

Michael Greenwood | Jun 11, 2018
Steve Smith | Jun 12, 2018

Mid 70's today. It will be beautiful all weekend.

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Thank you for your response. It had been 20 years since I'd been there to enjoy the beauty scenery and water . My question is are there sewage drains at each site?

albert denis Menard | Jun 11, 2018
Kiran Sreerama | Jun 12, 2018

No. There is one Sewege drain at the exit.

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Do they have septic drain at each station. Thanks

albert denis Menard | Jun 11, 2018
Jennifer Anderson | Jun 12, 2018

No there is a dump station

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Can you camp here for the winter?

Roger Wilson | Jun 11, 2018
ray U | Jun 12, 2018

Yes its probably a great time as the bugs are not as prevalent.

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Lodgings available on site ?

joseph manson | Jun 11, 2018
Chase Starnes | Jun 12, 2018

No cabins or anything. There are camping spots for both primitive and rv coming though.

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What did hurricane Irma do to the park?

Marie Schindel | Jun 11, 2019
Erik Rummler | Jun 12, 2019

Highlands Hammock had extensive damage and is closed until further notice. Edit, it is back open.

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