WATCH // EXPLORE // CRAVE
The Outdoor Life Each month we’ll visit a different park in the Florida State Park system. This month we’re at Tomoka State Park in Ormond Beach, which offers a unique outdoor experience that’s perfect for a little nature therapy. // B Y M E L I S S A P E T E R S O N
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Photos courtesy of Florida State Parks
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rom exploring the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail to traversing the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail, Tomoka State Park is nothing short of a nature-lover’s paradise. And with the park’s history dating back to the early 1600s, there’s plenty to learn about the area as well. If spending a day at Tomoka, you might want to start your adventure on the water. Whether you brought your own or you’re looking for a rental, kayaks and canoes are the perfect way to explore the park’s lagoons that lead to the Tomoka River. Kayak rentals are available inside the park, and a boat ramp allows you to launch your own craft or a rental, providing access to the Tomoka River and the Intracoastal Waterway. “The rivers and tributaries offer a beautiful place to observe the varied bird and marine life of the area,” says Alex Cronin, who works in the press office of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. “Canoeists are advised to use the rivers and creeks and not to venture into the Tomoka Basin except on very calm days. All of the waters in the vicinity of the park are a designated manatee sanctuary.” After your time on the water, take a stroll through the half-mile interpretive trail that winds its way through a hardwood hammock. Tomoka State Park has a rich history and culture. Native Americans once dwelled in the lands that are now
encompassed within the park, and the trail visits areas formerly inhabited by the Timucuan Tribe. “Visitors will pass through the ancient Timucuan village site of Nocoroco, a once thriving community along the banks of the Tomoka River,” says Alex. “Although nothing remains of the village, shell middens, mounds of oyster and snail shells from decades of Native American meals, reach 40 feet high at the river bank.” Tomoka is also the perfect spot for birdwatching enthusiasts, especially during the spring and fall migrations, as over 160 species have been sighted in the park. Beyond birds, the park also protects a variety of wildlife habitats and endangered species, such as the West Indian manatee. “Although wildlife viewing experiences will vary depending on the season, some of the yearround residents include white-tailed deer, gopher tortoise, bob cat and a variety of snakes,” says Alex. “In the cooler months you will be more likely to see migratory bird species, which are heading
south to escape the cold weather.” Looking to spend more than a day at the park? Consider packing your tent and sleeping bag and staying the weekend at the on-site campground. Located in a shady hammock near the Tomoka River, each of the park’s 100 campsites has a picnic table, grill, electric hookups and water, and the campground offers guests three restrooms with hot showers. If you’re looking to get away from the buzz of the city while still staying close to home, Tomoka State Park is a solid option. “Tomoka State Park is a prime example of an urban park,” says Alex. “Surrounded on all sides by development and just minutes from all modern conveniences, it is far enough removed from the busy world to afford visitors the opportunity to enjoy a starry sky after dark.” Tomoka State Park // 2099 North Beach Street, Ormond Beach // (386) 676-4050 // floridastateparks.org/Tomoka // Open from 8am to sundown, 365 days a year // Entrance fee is $5 per vehicle (up to 8 people). Check the website to pay online before visiting. // Some park facilities, including restrooms, may be closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Contact the park for specific updates and to find out more about kayak rentals.