Green Key rd

For Floridians seeking an escape into the natural beauty that defines our state, the area around Green Key Road in New Port Richey offers a remarkable opportunity. While not a traditional commercial campground with numerous RV hookups and extensive amenities, Green Key Road serves as the direct access point to the renowned Robert K. Rees Memorial Park. This distinction is crucial for local users: Green Key Road is less a destination in itself and more a scenic route that guides you to a truly exceptional natural preserve. For those who cherish Florida's unique ecosystems, from coastal hammocks to salt marshes and mangrove swamps, this area provides an immersive experience. It's a place where the vibrant coastal environment takes center stage, offering a peaceful retreat and a chance to connect with the diverse wildlife that calls the Gulf Coast home.

Green Key Road is located at 6640 Oelsner St, New Port Richey, FL 34652, USA. This address places it squarely in New Port Richey, a charming city in Pasco County, Florida. The key to accessing this natural gem, as highlighted by local information, is to "Turn West off US 19 to Robert K Rees Memorial Park." This indicates that Green Key Road functions as the gateway, leading directly into the heart of the park's natural splendor. New Port Richey itself is situated on Florida's Gulf Coast, offering residents and visitors easy access to a wealth of coastal activities, from fishing and boating to simply enjoying the sun-drenched beaches. The accessibility from US 19, a major north-south artery, ensures that locals from across the Tampa Bay area and beyond can easily reach this natural haven. The drive along Green Key Road sets the tone for your visit, transitioning you from the bustling thoroughfares to a more serene, natural environment, preparing you for the tranquility that awaits within Robert K. Rees Memorial Park.

As Green Key Road primarily provides access to Robert K. Rees Memorial Park, the "services offered" are those found within the park itself, rather than a dedicated campground facility with traditional overnight camping amenities. This is a day-use park focused on environmental preservation and passive recreation. Visitors can expect the following services:

• Walking Trails: The preserve features a small natural surface trail, perfect for leisurely strolls and exploring the diverse habitats.
• Picnic Pavilions and Grills: Picnic tables and charcoal grills are available, making it an ideal spot for family outings and outdoor gatherings.
• Restrooms and Showers: Public restrooms and showers are provided for visitor convenience, ensuring a comfortable day out.
• Boat Ramps: Two small rock-based boat ramps are available for launching canoes or kayaks, perfect for exploring the waterways (no fee for launch, but parking fee applies).
• Observation Tower: A 650-foot boardwalk leads to an observation tower, offering elevated views of the coastline and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
• Parking: Convenient parking is available near the park entrance, though a $2 parking fee applies (annual passes are also available).
• Accessible Pathways: The park strives for accessibility, with accessible pathways, restrooms, and facilities to accommodate visitors with disabilities.

It's important to note that direct camping facilities (like RV hookups or designated tent sites) are not the primary service at Robert K. Rees Memorial Park. It operates as a nature preserve open from dawn to dusk.

Robert K. Rees Memorial Park, accessed via Green Key Road, is rich in features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in Florida:

• Diverse Ecosystems: The 45-acre preserve showcases ecologically sensitive habitats, including coastal hammocks, salt marshes, and mangrove swamps, providing a unique glimpse into Florida's coastal environment.
• Abundant Wildlife Viewing: It is a renowned spot for birdwatching, with over 240 species recorded, including roseate spoonbills, white ibises, and reddish egrets. The observation tower is excellent for spotting dolphins, sea cranes, and migratory birds.
• Stunning Coastal Views: Located directly on the Gulf of Mexico, the park offers breathtaking sunsets and serene waterfront vistas, perfect for photography and relaxation.
• Accessible Boardwalk: A wheelchair-accessible boardwalk meanders through the mangroves to a covered overlook on the Gulf, allowing everyone to experience the beauty of the ecosystem.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: With playgrounds (including a pirate ship!), picnic areas, and open spaces, it's a great destination for families with children.
• Paddling Opportunities: The small boat ramps make it easy to launch canoes and kayaks, offering a fantastic way to explore the calm waters and observe wildlife from a different perspective.
• Historical Significance: The site features historically significant fire rings from its past as a Boy Scouts of America camping ground, adding a touch of local history to the natural setting.
• Storm Protection: Beyond recreation, these natural communities play a vital role in mitigating storm surge, controlling floodwater, and reducing erosion, serving an important ecological function for the region.

For information regarding Robert K. Rees Memorial Park, accessed via Green Key Road, please use the general contact information for Pasco County Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources, as they manage the preserve.

Address: 6640 Oelsner St, New Port Richey, FL 34652, USA (This is the physical address leading to the park entrance)

While a direct phone number for a "Green Key Rd campground" isn't available as it's a park entrance, for park-related inquiries, you would typically refer to Pasco County Parks contact information. This can usually be found on the official Pasco County government website under their Parks and Recreation department. As of current public information, there isn't a specific phone number listed for the "campground" at this location, as it is a day-use preserve.

For Florida locals, Green Key Road, and by extension, Robert K. Rees Memorial Park, is an indispensable natural asset in New Port Richey. It offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the state's iconic coastal environments without traveling far. This location is particularly suitable for locals who cherish passive recreation, wildlife observation, and family-friendly outdoor activities. Unlike traditional campgrounds designed for overnight stays, Green Key Road provides access to a vibrant ecosystem that acts as a living classroom and a peaceful sanctuary. It's perfect for a morning birdwatching excursion, an afternoon picnic with the family, or a serene sunset viewing over the Gulf. The accessibility, coupled with the commitment to preserving these vital habitats, makes it a valuable resource for residents. Whether you're a nature photographer, a casual walker, or a family looking for an enriching outdoor experience, Robert K. Rees Memorial Park via Green Key Road offers a genuine slice of Florida's natural splendor right at your doorstep, making it a truly cherished spot for the local community.

Green Key rd

6640 Oelsner St, New Port Richey, FL 34652, USA