Located in one of Florida´s newest state parks, this crystal clear, first magnitude spring is a popular spot for swimming. About 82 feet wide and 25 feet deep, the spring bubbles up into a limestone basin along the west bank of the Withlacoochee River. Scenic woodlands of mixed hardwoods and pines create a picturesque setting for picnicking, paddling, and wildlife viewing. Read more

The flat-topped ceremonial mound-composed of sand, shell, and village debris-measures 100 by 170 feet at the base and is 20 feet in height. Archaeological excavations have disclosed at least three periods of Native American cultures, the earliest dating back 2,000 years. Picnic tables are available. Plans for the future include a nature trail and a kiosk with historical information.  Read more

Popular for snorkeling and scuba diving, the headwaters of the spring are also a great spot for swimming. Canoe and kayaks can be rented May through September. Children enjoy the playground in the picnic area. Hiking and bicycling are available on the north end trail system. The full-facility campground is surrounded by red oak woods.   Read more

The United States Postal Service released a commemorative stamp in 2008 honoring Rawlings and the literary arts. In 2007, the Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings house and farm yard was designated as a National Historic Landmark. Visitors may tour the house with a ranger in period costume from October through July. Picnic facilities and a playground are located in the adjacent county park.   Read more

Prehistoric Native Americans are credited with creating this island's complex of mounds with an accumulation of seashells, fish bones, and pottery. Mound Key is believed to have been the ceremonial center of the Calusa Indians when the Spaniards first attempted to colonize Southwest Florida. Read more

The park´s river and two lakes provide ample opportunities for boating, freshwater fishing, canoeing, and kayaking; a boat ramp provides access to Upper Myakka Lake. Hikers can explore trails that cross large expanses of rare Florida dry prairie. Scenic lake tours are offered daily on the world´s two largest airboats. Full-facility campgrounds and primitive campsites are available.  Read more

The park contains 2300 acres of rolling sandhills and long leaf pines, with several lakes and a ravine with seepage springs cutting through the park for approximately 1.5 miles. The park is home to bald eagles, Sherman's fox squirrels, gopher tortoises, red cockaded woodpeckers, various snakes, hawks, fox, and numerous songbirds. The time for wildflower viewing is during October. Read more