Native Americans once lived off the fish-filled lagoons surrounding Tomoka State Park, and fishing remains one of the favorite activities for visitors to the park today. The Florida Marine Institute has identified 90 separate species of fish in the Tomoka River, and anglers will delight at catching red drum, black drum, sea trout, snook and tarpon, to name only a few. Manatees are seen in the river in spring and summer, and other residents of the park include river otter, alligator and the occasional bottlenose dolphin.

In addition to fishing, hikers find Tomoka State Park's trails among the best in the state. The park features trails ranging from easy ½ mile strolls to more arduous 6-mile treks. Along the Timucuan trail, visitors pass by the site of the ancient Indian village of Nocoroco, which was once a thriving community along the banks of the Tomoka River. Wildlife abounds in the park, creating great opportunities for nature study. Over 165 species of birds have been observed, including bald eagles, peregrine falcons, herons, wood stork and white ibis. Canoeing the rivers and tributaries in the park offers another great way to observe the varied bird and marine life. Canoe rentals are available from the ranger station on a first come, first served basis. Canoeists are advised not to venture into the Tomoka basin, as the water can get quite choppy on windy days.

Camping in the park offers a delightful retreat from a busy vacation schedule. The campground features 100 combination tent and RV sites, each with picnic table, grill and water. Sixty-four of the sites also have electric hook-ups. In addition, five separate picnic areas are located throughout the park, all with tables, grills and pavilions for larger groups.

HOURS OF OPERATION:

8:00 a.m. to sundown, 365 days per year

DETAILED DIRECTIONS:

From Melbourne, take I-95 north 6-6/10 miles to SR-40. Take SR-40 east 3-9/10 miles to US-1. Turn left of US-1 and travel 5/10 mile to Old Dixie Highway. Turn right on Old Dixie Highway and travel 4 miles to the park entrance.

ACTIVITIES:

Camping, boating, canoeing, fishing, hiking, nature study, picnicking

INFORMATION AND CAMPGROUND RESERVATIONS:

Tomoka State Park
2099 North Beach Street
Ormond Beach, FL 32174
(904) 676-4050