Fort Cooper State Park

Fort Cooper State Park is a forested protected area of about 700 acres situated along Lake Holathlikaha, where oak, pine, and hickory trees dominate the landscape. The grounds include marked trails for walking, water access for paddling, and remains of a 1800s fort structure.

The fort was built in 1836 when the United States was fighting the Seminoles and establishing defensive positions across Florida's interior. Major Mark Anthony Cooper commanded this remote outpost to protect settlers in this disputed frontier zone.

The site preserves the stories of the Seminoles and early defenders through displays and original structures scattered across the grounds. Visitors can experience firsthand how people lived and worked in this frontier region.

The park offers canoe and paddleboat rentals for water activities, and a lakeside building can be reserved for group gatherings. The cooler months make for more enjoyable visits, as temperatures are comfortable and insects are less active.

The grounds connect to a network of multi-use trails that span across multiple counties, linking visitors to other parks and communities. These regional routes turn the location into a stopping point for larger journeys through central Florida.

Location: Citrus County

Inception: 1972

Website: https://floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/fort-cooper-state-park

GPS coordinates: 28.81000,-82.30530

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:09