Gasparilla Island State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Gasparilla Island State Park |
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IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
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 Gasparilla Island State Park
Location in Florida
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| Location | Charlotte and Lee counties, Florida, USA |
| Nearest city | Boca Grande, Florida |
| Established | 1983 |
| Governing body | Florida Department of Environmental Protection |
Gasparilla Island State Park is a beautiful state park located in Florida, USA. It sits on Gasparilla Island, south of a town called Boca Grande. The park is surrounded by Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island Sound. It's a great place to visit for outdoor fun and to learn about nature.
Visitors to Gasparilla Island State Park can enjoy many activities. You can go swimming, fishing, or look for seashells on the beach. It's also a perfect spot for a picnic with friends or family. If you love the water, you can try snorkeling. Many people also come here to study nature and see the amazing animals.
The park is home to many interesting animals. You might spot a gentle West Indian manatee swimming nearby. On land, look for the gopher tortoise, a special kind of turtle. Birdwatchers will love seeing majestic bald eagles and ospreys. Other birds like the least tern, royal tern, Sandwich tern, and black skimmer also live here.
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Visiting Gasparilla Island State Park
Gasparilla Island State Park welcomes visitors every day. The park is open from 8:00 AM until sundown, all year long. There is a small fee to enter the park. It costs $3.00 for a car or golf cart. If you arrive by foot or bicycle, the fee is $2.00.
What Can You Find at the Park?
The park has several helpful facilities for visitors. There are four parking lots, making it easy to find a spot. You'll also find two picnic areas with covered tables, perfect for enjoying a meal outdoors. Of course, there are beautiful beaches for everyone to enjoy.
The Historic Port Boca Grande Lighthouse
One of the most famous spots in the park is the Historic Port Boca Grande Lighthouse. It's located at the very southern end of the island. This historic lighthouse also has a museum inside. You can learn about its history and the area. There's even a gift shop if you want a souvenir.
The lighthouse is managed by a group called the Barrier Island Park Society. This is a non-profit organization that helps support Gasparilla Island State Park. There is a suggested donation of $2.00 to visit the lighthouse. The lighthouse has specific hours, usually from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Monday through Saturday. On Sundays, it's open from noon to 4:00 PM. Hours might change during different seasons, so it's a good idea to call ahead during the summer.
Images for kids
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A boardwalk leading to the beach.
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A view of the sandy beach.
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Another view of the beach and water.
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The calm waters near the shore.
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A picnic pavilion at the park.
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A view of the Boca Grande area.
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A scenic view from the park.
