Kissimmee Preserve State Park covers around 54,000 acres in Okeechobee County, Florida. It’s one of the largest state parks in Florida full of trails and a campground. Within this vast acreage is a pristine and well-preserved dry prairie ecosystem, that includes grasslands, wetlands, and the accompanying plethora of plant and animal species.
Being a nature preserve, the most popular activities in the park revolve around wildlife observation and birdwatching some of the Okeechobee fauna. Among the usual species spotted are Florida grasshopper sparrows, sandhill cranes, white-tailed deer, gopher tortoises, and wild turkeys.
The Kissimmee Preserve State Park was the first Florida park to be labeled a Dark Sky Park. Its remote location with minimal light pollution is an excellent spot for stargazing.
Currently (2023) it’s $4 per vehicle with 2 to 8 people inside. Pedestrians, cyclists, or extra passengers cost $2 each. *Be sure to verify this information as it’s subject to change*
The perfect stargazing locations are tent pads. To take advantage of the stargazing, you need to camp at the site. If you have a Florida State Park Pass just make sure you enter before sunset, or, pay for a spot at the stargazing area.
In designated areas, you can have a pet on a handheld leash of no more than six feet. Service animals are welcome everywhere.
Read on about more things to do, see, and enjoy on Florida’s Treasure Coast.
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