The multi-use Overseas Heritage Trail that follows the route of the Overseas Railroad (built in the early 1900s) passes through the park (2 miles), as does the Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. It is a 1,515 mile sea kayaking route that starts at Big Lagoon Park (Pensacola) and ends at Fort Clinch state Park on the Atlantic Coast of FL near GA. Some refer to it as the saltwater version of the Appalachian Trail. We keep talking about purchasing a couple of kayaks but dread the idea of hauling them around the country with us!
Pavilions provide shaded picnic areas near the playground and beach.
We walked around this area of the park, but dogs are not permitted on the beach.
On windy days, kiteboarding and windsurfing are popular along the oceanfront. Kayaking and canoeing in the mangrove creek and coastline are also popular (kayak rentals available). Restrooms are located next to the parking lot.
The Nature Trail is a moderately-difficult 1.5 mile loop trail through the hammock. The 1,000 acre park is the largest uninhabited piece of land between Key Largo and Big Pine Key. We followed a dirt road to reach the trail.
Our doggie, Sadie, went for a swim as soon as we came to the Florida Bay.
White and red mangrove trees grow in abundance here.
The trail leads through a hardwood hammock. This area is solid rock with little soil which limits the size of the trees. Thatch palms are found in greater density here than anywhere else.
An expansive view of the Florida Bay can be seen from the small spur trail.
We finished the loop trail enjoying the sights along the way (while Sadie had a blast sniffing everything she could).
Admission is $4.50/per person, but we now have an annual pass for Florida State Parks. There is a 28-site campground that was closed due to damage by Hurricane Irma last year. For additional information about Curry Hammock, go to www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/curry-hammock-state-park
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