Fort Cooper State Park - Florida
N 28° 49.018 W 082° 18.209
17R E 372812 N 3188405
In 1836, the First Georgia Battalion of Volunteers built a stockade for the soldiers resting here, enabling the Volunteers to hold their own through several skirmishes with the Seminole Indians.
Waymark Code: WM7BA9
Location: Florida, United States
Date Posted: 09/30/2009
Views: 9
In April 1836, during the Second Seminole War, Major Cooper was ordered to remain behind to protect the sick and wounded as General Winfield Scott marched south to present day Tampa. Major Cooper was left in the command of five companies of the First Georgia Battalion of Volunteers and a small artillery company. A field fortification was built on the western bluff of Lake Holathlikaha. Major Cooper was to hold this position as he waited for reinforcements.
Seminole War Chief Osceola and his Indian warriors encamped themselves across the lake from Fort Cooper. There were several skirmishes with the Seminoles, but the volunteers held their own. On April 18, General Scott returned with supplies and reinforcements, leading the men of Fort Cooper from their frontier sanctuary and into new battles.
The fort site was well chosen. The western bluff offered the strategic advantage of being nestled in the fringe of a hardwood hammock, while having access to a wagon road that was under the cover of longleaf yellow pine.
The park´s diverse natural areas provide a refuge for many plants and animals, including threatened and endangered species. Fishing in Lake Holathlikaha is a popular activity; swimming is available only when the lake level is high enough. Private boats are not allowed on the lake, but paddleboat and canoe rentals are available. Nearly five miles of self-guided trails offer some of the best bird and wildlife viewing in Citrus County. Park visitors also can enjoy the picnic facilities, a recreation hall, and primitive group campground. Located off U.S. 41 on South Old Floral City Road, two miles south of Inverness
*** Collect your STAMP Monday to Friday 8:00AM to 2:30PM OR visit Homosassa or Rainbow springs***
Name of Park, Protected Area, or Cultural Location: Fort Cooper State Park
Name of System or Passport Program: Florida State Parks Passport Book
Passport Available: Yes, for purchase
Park Website: [Web Link]
Address of Station:
3100 South Old Floral City Road
Inverness, Florida United States
34450
Parking or Entrance Fee: Not listed
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Visit Instructions:
No special instructions, but a picture of yourself or of something unique to that place would be a nice touch.