Manager's Message
There are plenty of activities at the park to enjoy such as a picnic and playground area and nearly 6.2 miles of hiking trails. We also have a pavilion and recreation hall available for rent.
Our swimming area is currently closed and boat rentals are unavailable due to low lake water levels.
Fort Cooper State Park's nature trails offer some of Citrus County's best birding and wildlife viewing.
Pets are welcome in the park as long as they are on a leash no longer than 6-feet. They are permitted in the picnic area, hiking trails and playground but are not allowed on the beach area, in the water or in our primitive campground.
UPCOMING EVENTS:
Nights of Lights - Friday, December 11th thru Thursday, December 17, 2009
- Harry Mitchell, Park Manager
Welcome to Fort Cooper State Park
The sparkling waters of Lake Holathlikaha were a welcome sight to sick and wounded soldiers during the Second Seminole War. In 1836, the First Georgia Battalion of Volunteers built a stockade for the soldiers resting here, enabling the Volunteers to hold their own through several skirmishes with the Seminole Indians. The park´s diverse natural areas provide a refuge for many plants and animals, including threatened and endangered species. Fishing in Lake Holathlikaha is a popular activity; swimming is available only when the lake level is high enough. Private boats are not allowed on the lake, but paddleboat and canoe rentals are available. Nearly five miles of self-guided trails offer some of the best bird and wildlife viewing in Citrus County. Park visitors also can enjoy the picnic facilities, a recreation hall, and primitive group campground. Located off U.S. 41 on South Old Floral City Road, two miles south of Inverness.
Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Fort Cooper State Park, please call 352-726-0315.
Hours of Operation
Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.
Driving Directions
Fort Cooper State Park is located just off US 41, on South Old Floral City Road, two miles south of Inverness.
Park Fees
Admission Fee:
$3.00 per vehicle. Please use the honor box to pay fees. Correct change is required. Limit 8 people per vehicle.
$2.00 Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.
Primitive Tent Camping Fee:
$5.00 per night, per day, plus tax. Call the park at (352) 726-0315 for reservations.
Picnic Pavilion and Recreation Hall Rental Fees:
$40.00 per day, plus tax: Rental of picnic pavilion.
$100.00 per day, plus tax: Recreation Hall Fee.
Fort Cooper State Park
3100 South Old Floral City Road
Inverness, Florida 34450
Phone: 352-726-0315
Fax: Contact Park for Number
Citizen Support Organization
Friends of Fort Cooper, Inc.
3100 South Old Floral City Road
Inverness, FL 34450
