Curry Hammock State Park 56200 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050 Last Updated: 11/01/2023 | |
Curry Hammock State Park is a beautiful and relatively lesser-known state park located in Marathon, Florida, in the heart of the Florida Keys. It offers visitors the opportunity to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the Florida Keys, including its coastal habitats and marine ecosystems. | |
- Location: Curry Hammock State Park is situated in the middle Florida Keys, making it easily accessible to visitors driving along the Overseas Highway (U.S. Route 1). It's approximately 1.5 hours by car from Key West and 2.5 hours from Miami. - Coastal Ecosystems: The park encompasses a variety of coastal ecosystems, including seagrass beds, mangrove forests, and hammocks (small islands of hardwood trees). These habitats provide important breeding and feeding grounds for various bird and marine species. - Beach Access: The park features a beautiful, natural beach where visitors can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean. It's a serene and less crowded option compared to some of the more popular beaches in the Florida Keys. - Camping: Curry Hammock State Park offers camping facilities, including a campground with both tent and RV sites. Camping here provides a unique experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. - Wildlife Viewing: The park is a fantastic spot for wildlife enthusiasts. You can observe a wide range of bird species, including herons, egrets, and ospreys. Additionally, the shallow waters and seagrass beds are home to various marine life, making it a great location for birdwatching and marine wildlife viewing. - Canoeing and Kayaking: Paddling enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunities for canoeing and kayaking. The park has a launch area that allows you to explore the mangrove-lined waterways and spot marine life. - Hiking Trails: There are several trails within the park, including the Golden Orb Trail and the Curry Hammock Nature Trail. These trails take you through the natural habitats of the Florida Keys, providing a unique and educational experience. - Educational Programs: The park occasionally hosts educational programs, guided tours, and ranger-led activities that allow visitors to learn more about the local ecosystems and wildlife. - Picnicking: Curry Hammock State Park has picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal while taking in the beautiful surroundings. - Environmental Preservation: The park plays a vital role in preserving and protecting the coastal and marine environments of the Florida Keys, and it serves as a research and educational site for the study of these unique ecosystems. Visiting Curry Hammock State Park offers an opportunity to appreciate the unspoiled beauty of the Florida Keys in a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere compared to some of the more well-known tourist destinations in the region. It's a fantastic destination for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and those seeking a peaceful outdoor experience. |