Lake Griffin State Park
Our Park Native Americans traveled and fished what is now known as the Harris Chain of Lakes for thousands of years before European settlers arrived in the mid-1800s. The land that is now Lake Griffin State Park was used for farming and citrus orchards through the 1930s until the state purchased 383 acres in 1946. After the state purchased additional land, and the City of Fruitland Park donated four acres, work began in 1961 on the campground and boat ramp. The park opened in 1968 and continues to be a popular boating and camping destination. We currently have 40 campsites, a boat dock, kayak and canoe rentals, a walking trail, a playground, exercise stations, picnic tables with grills, and a pavilion available for rental. Our featured attraction is the Dead River Marsh, which connects our boat dock to Lake Griffin. Abundant wildlife includes birds of prey, wading birds, songbirds, turtles, raccoons, and alligators. Anglers will find plenty of bass, bluegill, crappie, and catfish. Near the park’s entrance stands a mammoth live oak tree, the second largest in Florida and estimated to be between 300-500 years old. For more information go to Lake Griffin State Park | VOLUNTEER! Lake Griffin State Park has several volunteer opportunities and we're always looking for help. Whatever skills you have to offer can be used to help support the park. We recruit and utilize volunteers according to their experience, background and interest. Volunteer positions include Camp Host and Regular Volunteer. Camp Hosts clean and maintain the campground area and restroom. Camp hosts may also be asked to assist with other small tasks. Regular Volunteers may be asked to assist with projects such as painting, grounds maintenance, trail maintenance, equipment maintenance, small carpentry projects, etc. For more information about becoming a volunteer please call the park's volunteer coordinator Jan Wichterman at 352-360-6760, or email Janice.Wichterman@dep.state.fl.us You can register to become a Florida State Park Volunteer at https://volunteers.floridastateparks.org/. Be sure to select Lake Griffin State Park for where you want to volunteer.
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Critter Sheets Critter Sheets are fun ways to learn about Florida's plants and animals. You can learn about native and invasive organisms (living things) found in Florida. Each sheet contains interesting facts and information about how you can help wildlife in your community. Additionally, there are coloring sheets to print or use on your favorite device with your favorite coloring app.Check them out | Become a Virtual Junior Ranger The Virtual Junior Ranger Program is a fun and engaging way to learn about parks and connect to the natural and cultural wonders of Florida. Virtual Junior Rangers can explore parks from anywhere and discover the fun and exciting ways rangers help make Florida State Parks the amazing places they are. |