Main Page - Waccasassa Bay Preserve State Park

Tall pines look down at their own reflections in a black water pond studded with limerock boulders.

Manager's Message

Waccasassa Bay Preserve still offers sweeping vistas of natural landscapes uninterrupted by buildings, power lines, and bridges. The preserve is home to numerous rare, threatened, or endangered plant and animal species and commercially important marine species.

- Kristin Ebersol, Park Manager

Welcome to Waccasassa Bay Preserve State Park

Accessible only by boat, this preserve is a favorite of anglers because it boasts both saltwater and freshwater fishing. Bordering Florida's Gulf Coast between Cedar Key and Yankeetown, extensive salt marshes and tidal creeks create habitats for saltwater fish, crabs, and shellfish. The park's uplands protect a remnant of the Gulf Hammock that once spanned thousands of acres between the Suwannee and Withlacoochee rivers. Endangered and threatened species-including West Indian manatees, bald eagles, American alligators, and Florida black bears-live or feed within the preserve. Although there aren't any marked foot trails, nature enthusiasts can enjoy wildlife viewing from a canoe. There are several primitive campsites on the Preserve, accessible only by private boat and are available on a first-come-first-served basis. Boat access is from CR 40 in Yankeetown, CR 326 in Gulf Hammock, and Cedar Key.

Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Waccasassa Bay Preserve State Park, please call 352-543-5567.

Hours of Operation

Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.

Driving Directions

Waccasassa Bay State Preserve extends along the coast between Cedar Key and Yankeetown. Waccasassa Bay Preserve State Park is only accessible by boat. Boats can be launched from several ramps located outside the preserve. Boat access is from CR 40 in Yankeetown, CR 326 in Gulf Hammock, and Cedar Key.