Hammocking in Florida State Parks

**samsara** · 06-16-2013, 18:10

Originally Posted by Butterfly

I just got my first hammock and I'm itching to get out and try it. I live near Tampa and I've looked at several state parks and I can't find anywhere that it says no hammocks. I'm wondering if I just go to one of the primitive campsites if I'll be ok. And wondering if anything new has happened to get these rules changed.

They opened it up but you should call before you go and if they say it isn't allowed then they are misinformed. They have made a change or two since this post but it should get you started.

https://www.hammockforums.net/forum/...ad.php?t=51604

Dave

**JaxHiker** · 06-16-2013, 20:44

Definitely call ahead. The pilot program ended already and I haven't heard back from the last person that was managing it. I'm not sure if they're still allowing it or not.

**samsara** · 06-16-2013, 20:56

Originally Posted by JaxHiker

Definitely call ahead. The pilot program ended already and I haven't heard back from the last person that was managing it. I'm not sure if they're still allowing it or not.

I would bet money that they will continue it in some fashion. The last time that I talked to someone with DEP they mentioned that quite a few parks had put in large posts for hammocks. That sounds a bit like they are committed to hammocks to at least a small degree. I would guess they are "hammock friendly" now but may not be "hammock bff's"

Dave

**Butterfly** · 06-19-2013, 11:56

Cool, thanks for the updates. We'll definitely call before we make any plans. We thought we could always take 2 cars and hang between them

**Pimms** · 06-19-2013, 12:51

That could work with my FJ Toyota Cruiser, hang one side from the roof rack, just need one tree then. Would it be safe to hang from the lantern hook on the pole some parks have. I'm thinking no lol but just wondering (my inner voice says bad idea). It would be nice if Florida parks allow hammocks now but if not it would really nice to have them install some stands for use (probably wouldn't happen due to cost). I am looking at portable stands to get as a backup for Florida since I do want to do some hikes here and not always have to travel to Georgia. But like Butterfly said definitely will call and find out first before buying or building some sort of stand.