The Hammocks Hiking Nature Trail begins near the ranger station / docking complex. Before venturing along this 3-mile hike, you may wish to walk the short distance to the observation tower and spy your surroundings. You'll see the St. Johns River, the cabin and camping area and your origination spot on the mainland. You'll also get a good overview of the trail / road structure. Be sure not to miss the totem replicas. The original artifacts reside at the Florida State Museum in Gainesville.

The Hammocks Hiking Nature Trail travels to ancient Indian midden deposits created be the Timucuan Indians. After feasting on shellfish for generations, the deposits grew into large mounds. At the end of this trail, visitors will find a perched park bench. Both hikers and mountain bikers use this trail, like all the park trails.

Hikers will pass through a hardwood hammock and a smattering of open space dotted with saw palmettos and wildflowers. The park obtained the island in 1967 and has done little in terms of development.

Directions: From DeLand, FL, Take State Route 44 south for approximately 6 miles through a series of well-marked turns reaching the mainland parking area. Shuttles run back-n-forth to the boat access only island. Launching a private boat is permissible.

Elevation: 5 feet

Elevation Gain: Minimal

Difficulty: Easy

Visitor Information