Located 80 miles from the Orlando area near the town of Sebring, Highlands Hammock remains one of the oldest and most scenic in the park system. From 1,000-year-old oak trees to blackwater cypress swamp, this park has a little bit of everything for those who love Florida's natural beauty. Although rare, black bears and Florida panthers have been seen in the park.

One of four original parks in the Civilian Conservation Corps (the predecessor of the Florida State Park system), Highlands Hammock was acquired through the diligent work of concerned citizens determined to preserve the area's natural beauty. The 8,140-acre park opened to the public in 1931 and has been one of the crown jewels in the state park system since. The park contains a museum detailing the history of the CCC and their remarkable work.

Without a doubt, hikers will be in heaven at Highlands Hammock with nine well-maintained, easily-hiked trails to choose from. Encompassing a wide variety of natural habitats, there is definitely something for everyone. Some of the favorites are the Big Oak Trail with it's majestic 1,000 year old oak trees, the Fern Garden trail featuring a boardwalk over acres of ferns, and the Cypress Swamp Trail, which meanders through a true blackwater swamp. Visitors commonly see deer, alligators, wild hogs and a myriad of species of birds. Rangers lead tram tours to the more remote areas of the park, and their guided walks and campfire programs are superb.

Directions: From International Drive heading south, turn right onto Sand Lake Rd. Travel 3/10 mile and take a left and then a slight left on FL-482E. Travel 3/10 mile to I-4 West. Merge onto I-4 west and travel 18 8/10 miles to Exit 23, US-27. Turn right onto US-27 and travel south for 55 7/10 miles to CR-634. Turn right onto CR-634 for 3 6/10 miles (becomes Hammock Road) to the park entrance.

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