Highlands Hammock was named for the canopy of trees that shades the beautiful area. The park is experienced as a group of trails that spur off of a paved driving and cycling path in the middle of the park.
There are many different loops that show the forest in it’s different forms. The most popular is the Cypress Swamp loop that includes boardwalks that are only railed on one side. They couple that with undersized planks that give just enough to make you remember that every step is an adventure. It has some pretty neat views of the swamp and you are in a great spot to see a gator here and there lurking in the water.
The other large natural draw is the 1000 year old oak tree. It is quite gnarly and cool to look at even though it is mostly gone after a long life. Back in the 40’s they thought it was possible to shore up a tree by filling hollowed out spaces with concrete and rebar and this can be seen on this tree as well as a couple that are still standing. The trunk still measures some 33ft around and the aftermath of a misinformed tree ‘surgery’ is laying on the ground next to it.
Beyond the paved loop filled with trails, closer to the entrance to the park, is an opening with numerous shelters, a camp store, a stage and green landing, and a museum dedicated to the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in a building they built in 1939. It is a neat place to soak in a little history about the origin of the park and one of FDR’s lesser known work programs.
Kids: While there is plenty for young people to do much of it involves trail walking and looking up at trees. There is a playground, I think and picnic pavilions as well. The lack of swimming opportunities and active options for young people make this less popular for families, particularly on the camping side. Kids can still enjoy everything about the park, and there is a large about of effort put into extra events geared at young people, but if you are looking for a swimming hole – no luck.
Camping: The campground is set up in a large loop with tons of sites. In the main area every site is individually electrified and watered and it is relatively easy for RVs and trailers to get in and out. There are ample bath houses throughout the site and they were clean enough. Some of the sites feel very close to the neighbors, particularly on the curves of the loop. Camping is a great time to meet new folks, but you realize just how close you are when you can hear them gently chatting as you lay your head down.
Length of stay: You can see most all of the park in one day. I enjoyed camping, but there wasn’t much left to take in after a day on the trails.
To bike or not to bike: Bicycles work very well moving from one trail loop to another and glide down the paved loop. They make even more sense traveling from the campground to the trails. After a day hiking the quickest route back to camp is often on the paved road with added a little damper to the trip.
