Florida Guide > Other Florida
FORT COOPER
Fort Cooper is situated in Old Floral City, 2 miles south of Inverness. It has 710 acres that blends a historical site with a beautiful lake and natural trails. I would say that it is reasonably disabled friendly with some good walkways.
During the Seminole wars a Major Mark Anthony Cooper was charged with staying behind here to protect and help his 380 wounded soldiers.
A fort was hastily built in an ideal place on the western bluff and this worked beautifully despite the presence of Seminole Indians just across the lake.
There was a certain amount of skirmishes but Major Cooper protected his troops for 16 days until his general came back from Tampa with re inforcements and provisions and lead them all to safety.
This State Park has honoured Major Cooper by naming the park after him.
The fort was destroyed many years ago, but a replica has been built in its place.
The 160 acre Lake Holathlikaha is right at the centre of this park and the venue for a lot of the activities. When the water is high you can swim here in the crystal clear waters (Lake Holathlikaha is fed by springs)
Fishng, however, is always available and to spur you in there is a photo of a truly giant bass that was caught right here.
You can rent canoes and paddle boats for more fun on the lake, though on occasions, the water gets too low for that as well. Rentals are set at a very reasonable $5 an hour.
There are always alligators in this lake but you will not always see them; the lake is surrounded by swamp and marsh which attracts many of the species that enjoy these conditions.
There are 5 miles of trails through shady hammocks and you should pick up a self guide trail Some of the trail is formed of the original Fort King Military Road so you will be walking in histories foot steps.
Look out for turkey, bob cat oppossum and deer while you are on the trails; among the vegetation is spleen wort, zepher lily, arrow root and chain fern.
The pic nic area is especially nice situated as it is on the lake in a hard wood hammock. There is a childrens play ground and volley ball and horse shoe to play
Once a year the park holds an enactment of the Seminole battle so if you are there at that time it would be a good day to go.
Fort Cooper State Park
3100 South Old Floral City Road
Inverness, Florida 34450
Phone: 352-726-0315
Fax: Contact Park for Number
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