For more than sixty years, there was a hippopotamus living at Homosassa Springs who held honorary Florida citizenship by an act of the governor. His name was Lu, he was born in 1960, and when the State of Florida bought the property in 1989 to turn it into a wildlife park dedicated to native Florida …
As we celebrate the United States’ 250th anniversary, the America250 initiative invites us to recognize how federal conservation programs rescued landscapes from industrial exhaustion. At Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, a proud member of the Adventures Unbound family, we are honoring the Civilian Conservation Corps and the broader New Deal programs that rehabilitated Citrus County’s …
As America marks its 250th anniversary, the America250 initiative reminds us that the natural wonders we value are protected by the people who dedicate themselves to their care. At Homosassa Springs, a proud member of the Adventures Unbound family, we are honoring Women’s History Month by celebrating three women whose efforts have helped preserve this …
As we celebrate the United States’ 250th anniversary, the America250 initiative invites us to honor the full, diverse tapestry of our nation’s history. At Homosassa Springs Adventures, a proud member of the Adventures Unbound family, we are using Black History Month to reflect on the laborers and pioneers whose strength defined the Nature Coast. By …
Florida is home to many springs, but Homosassa stands out for its clear, cool water and its unique blend of nature and history. Every summer, travelers and locals alike are drawn to this refreshing sanctuary. Homosassa brings peace, adventure, and learning into one place. Step into a landscape where the water feels restorative and the …
Jan. 26, 1960 – June 8, 2025 Lu, the beloved African hippopotamus and cherished resident of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2025. Born at the San Diego Zoo on Jan. 26, 1960, Lu came to Homosassa Springs in 1964. A …
Florida is widely known for its beaches and theme parks, but venture a little further, and you’ll uncover a quieter side of the Sunshine State. Homosassa, in particular, offers unique trails and scenic spots perfect for those looking to step off the beaten path. If you’re eager to explore nature, breathe in fresh air, and encounter wildlife …
It’s no secret that Spring is the perfect time to explore the beauty of Florida’s natural wildlife, and there’s no better place to do that than at Homosassa Springs State Park. Home to more than 200 unique animals, this one-of-a-kind park offers visitors the chance to meet native species up close. can you make sure …
Earth Day is an annual tradition that reminds us of the importance of protecting nature and adopting sustainable practices. It’s a chance for communities, individuals, and organizations to come together with a shared purpose—to protect and nurture the environment we all rely on. Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park continues to showcase Florida’s biodiversity and connect …
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park will open with limited services on Wednesday, November 20th. Park entrance fees and parking will be available only at the Visitor Center on US19. Visitors must take the boat or tram over to the park’s West Entrance. The park’s West Entrance parking lot and concessions are closed. Please …
