Youth Camp, Highlands Hammock State Park

For Floridians, Highlands Hammock State Park in Zolfo Springs stands as a cornerstone of natural preservation and outdoor education. Within this historic park lies a unique offering: the Youth Camp. Unlike the larger, full-facility family campground, the Youth Camp provides a more rustic and secluded experience, specifically designed for organized groups such as scout troops, school groups, and other youth organizations. As one reviewer aptly put it, "Clean, well removed from the rest of the park camp sites so you have privacy and a sense of security." This dedicated space ensures that groups can enjoy a focused, immersive, and private camping adventure, fostering independence and a deeper connection with Florida's remarkable ecosystems.

We understand that for leaders of youth groups and educators across Florida, finding a suitable and safe outdoor venue that promotes learning and camaraderie is crucial. The Youth Camp at Highlands Hammock State Park offers just that, blending necessary comforts with a genuine back-to-nature feel. This article will provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of this unique camping opportunity, detailing its strategic location, essential services, and the key features that make it an ideal choice for youth-focused outdoor programs in the heart of the Sunshine State.

The Youth Camp at Highlands Hammock State Park is located within the vast expanse of the park, with the main park entrance at S Hammock Rd, Zolfo Springs, FL 33890, USA. While the park's address is listed in Zolfo Springs, it is very close to the larger city of Sebring, which provides excellent accessibility for Floridians. Highlands Hammock State Park itself is a significant landmark in Central Florida, often referred to as one of Florida's oldest and most treasured state parks.

For groups traveling from across Florida, the park's location offers convenient access via major state roads, including US Highway 27, which is a primary north-south artery in Central Florida. This makes the journey to the park relatively straightforward for buses and vans transporting youth groups from various parts of the state. Once inside the park, the Youth Camp is intentionally "well removed from the rest of the park camp sites," ensuring a dedicated and private area for youth activities. This seclusion contributes to a sense of security and allows groups to engage in their programming without disturbance from general public campers. Despite its rustic feel and privacy, the camp remains within reasonable driving distance to essential services in Sebring, such as medical facilities, grocery stores, and other supplies that might be needed for group outings. This balance of natural immersion and practical accessibility makes it an ideal setting for youth education and recreation programs in Florida.

The Youth Camp at Highlands Hammock State Park is designed to provide essential amenities for group camping, balancing rustic appeal with necessary conveniences for a comfortable and educational stay. It caters to the specific needs of youth organizations by offering facilities that support group activities and basic hygiene.

• Private Group Site: The Youth Camp is a dedicated site specifically for organized youth groups, ensuring privacy and ample space for group activities and tents.

• Basic Restroom Facilities: A dedicated bathhouse is available, equipped with "two flushing toilets" and "two sinks with cold running water."

• Single Shower Stall with Hot Water: Uniquely for a rustic youth camp, there is "a single shower stall with electric powered hot water that you can close off from the rest of the bathroom for a bit more privacy," which is a significant comfort for campers.

• Fresh Water Spigot: A "spigot for fresh water near the fire pit" provides convenient access to potable water for drinking and cooking.

• Covered Seating Area with Lighting: An "electric lit covered seating area" offers a communal space for groups to gather, eat, and conduct activities, protected from the elements, with lighting for evening use.

• Outlets for Charging: While the covered seating area might not have outlets, the bathhouse provides "a few outlets to plug in as needed," allowing for basic device charging for leaders or emergency needs.

• Fire Pit: A designated fire pit allows for campfires, cooking, and traditional camping experiences, essential for group bonding.

• Picnic Tables: Provided picnic tables offer convenient surfaces for meals and group activities.

• Reservation System: Group camping at the Youth Camp is booked through the park, with adult groups able to make reservations 30 days in advance, ensuring planned access.

The Youth Camp's greatest features are intrinsically linked to its location within the historic and ecologically rich Highlands Hammock State Park. It provides an immersive natural environment coupled with educational opportunities and a sense of secluded adventure.

• Secluded and Secure Environment: Being "well removed from the rest of the park camp sites" offers a heightened sense of privacy and security for youth groups, allowing for focused and undisturbed programming.

• Access to Highlands Hammock State Park's Trails: The Youth Camp is within easy reach of the park's extensive network of "nine nature trails," including elevated boardwalks through old-growth cypress swamps and a historic catwalk (though currently closed for repairs), providing incredible educational and recreational hiking opportunities.

• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Highlands Hammock is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including white-tailed deer, alligators, various bird species (including barred owls), and gopher tortoises, offering unique observational learning experiences.

• Proximity to CCC Museum: The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Museum, located within the park, offers an invaluable educational resource, allowing groups to learn about the park's history and the significant contributions of the CCC during the Great Depression.

• Tram Tours (seasonal/by reservation): The park offers ranger-guided tram tours through remote areas, providing close-up views of alligators and other wildlife, which can be an excellent educational activity for groups (check availability, as they can be seasonal).

• Natural Florida Landscape: The camp is nestled in a "sandy" but authentic Florida hammock setting, providing a true outdoor experience amidst towering trees and diverse vegetation.

• Stargazing: Away from significant urban light pollution, the Youth Camp offers excellent opportunities for stargazing, providing a clear view of the night sky.

• Educational Opportunities: The park's rich ecology and history make it an ideal outdoor classroom for environmental studies, historical lessons, and team-building exercises.

For reservations, inquiries, or more information about the Youth Camp at Highlands Hammock State Park, please use the following contact details:

Address: S Hammock Rd, Zolfo Springs, FL 33890, USA

Ranger Station Phone: (863) 386-6094

Friends of Highlands Hammock Camp Store Phone: (863) 402-0061

It is essential to contact the Ranger Station directly for all Youth Camp reservations and specific inquiries, as group camping is booked through the park. Fees are typically per person, per night, making it an affordable option for groups. We recommend calling well in advance to check availability, especially during peak seasons for youth programs.

For Floridians involved in youth organizations, scout troops, or educational programs, the Youth Camp at Highlands Hammock State Park is an exceptionally suitable and highly valuable resource. Its unique offering of a private, rustic, yet adequately equipped group campsite within one of Florida's most cherished state parks provides an unparalleled environment for fostering growth, learning, and unforgettable memories.

The camp's seclusion ensures that groups can enjoy a focused and secure experience, promoting independence and teamwork away from the distractions of more crowded public areas. Essential amenities like flushing toilets, a hot shower, and a fresh water spigot provide a comfortable base, while the simple, natural setting encourages children and young adults to truly disconnect and engage with the outdoors. The park's rich ecological diversity, historical significance (through the CCC Museum), and extensive trail system offer a living classroom for environmental education, wildlife observation, and physical activity.

By choosing the Youth Camp, local Florida groups gain access to a dedicated space where they can thrive, learn, and bond amidst the state's beautiful natural heritage. It's an affordable and impactful way for Florida's youth to experience the wild, develop essential outdoor skills, and cultivate an appreciation for conservation, making it an indispensable asset for the community.

Youth Camp, Highlands Hammock State Park

S Hammock Rd, Zolfo Springs, FL 33890, USA