Koreshan State Historic Site facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Koreshan State Historic Site |
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IUCN Category V (Protected Landscape/Seascape)
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The Planetary Court
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 Koreshan State Historic Site
Location in Florida
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| Location | Lee County, Florida, United States |
| Nearest city | Estero, Florida |
| Area | 135 acres (0.55 km2) |
| Governing body | Florida Department of Environmental Protection |
The Koreshan State Historic Site is a special state park in Lee County, Florida. You can find it on U.S. Highway 41 near Corkscrew Road. This park is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It was added on May 4, 1976, as the Koreshan Unity Settlement Historic District.
This park protects a unique area of pine flatwoods. It is also the former home of a religious group called the Koreshan Unity. The last members of this group gave their land to the state of Florida in 1961.
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Amazing Plants at Koreshan
The Koreshans loved plants and brought many different kinds from all over the world. You can see some really cool trees here!
Unique Trees and Their Features
One interesting tree is the Araucaria bidwillii, also known as the false monkey puzzle tree. It comes from Queensland, Australia. This tree drops huge seed pods, some as big as a football!
You can also find several sausage trees. These trees are from Africa. Their long, sausage-shaped fruits are a favorite food for giraffes.
The park also has eucalyptus trees and many mango and other fruit trees. There's even a lot of Japanese bamboo. This bamboo originally came from the famous Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Plus, you'll see many different kinds of flowering trees and plants.
Wildlife in the Park
The Koreshan State Historic Site is home to many different animals. It's a great place to spot Florida's native wildlife.
Animals You Might See
Keep an eye out for gopher tortoises. These turtles dig long tunnels underground. You might also see bobcats and gray foxes. North American river otters live here too, especially near the water. Of course, American alligators are common in Florida's waterways.
Birds of the Sky
Many beautiful birds fly over the park. Look up to spot swallow-tailed kites with their long, forked tails. Bald eagles, America's national bird, also live here. You might hear the call of northern bobwhites. And red-shouldered hawks are often seen soaring above the trees.
Fun Things to Do
Koreshan State Historic Site offers many ways to enjoy nature and history. There are activities for everyone!
Outdoor Adventures
You can go fishing in the Estero River. It's also a great spot for picnicking with your family and friends. If you love being on the water, you can go boating or canoeing. Canoe rentals are available right at the park.
Exploring and Camping
The park has trails perfect for hiking. You can also spend time watching for wildlife. If you want to stay longer, there's a campground. The park has a boat ramp and a picnic area by the river. You can also find beach activities and kayak rentals nearby on the Gulf.
Park Hours
Florida state parks are open every day of the year. This includes holidays! You can visit between 8 a.m. and sundown.
Gallery
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Founder's House.
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The Bamboo Landing.
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An ornamental bridge.
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A gopher tortoise in the park.
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An otter on the Estero River.
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Herons on the Estero.
