An irreplaceable Florida campground in Homosassa, Florida is at risk. Florida leaders need to hear from you: we can’t lose any more wild, public lands  

On August 15, the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) announced that the Chassahowitzka River Campground would close effective October 1 and could be recommended as “surplus” public land that might be sold to a private entity. The 40-acre campground experienced extensive hurricane damage—a recurring challenge for Florida’s public lands and recreation areas.  

Why this campground matters: 

• Located along the spring-fed Chassahowitzka River, it provides public camping, paddling, fishing, and wildlife viewing, with easy access to hidden springs and surrounding wetlands. 

• Adjacent to the Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge, which protects over 31,000 acres of critical habitat for manatees, whooping cranes, and countless other species. 

• Protecting this campground preserves both a beloved recreation spot and one of Florida’s most fragile ecosystems. 

Any decision to sell would include opportunities for public input and require final approval by the Governing Board. By state law, SWFWMD must review land holdings every two years to determine if any are no longer needed or are too costly to maintain.

The Florida Wildlife Federation is closely monitoring this proposal and is committed to working with SWFWMD to defend this public land to keep public access and recreation available for all to enjoy.