The Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) announced changes for public access at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park and Weekiwachee Preserve in Hernando County, which adjoins the Weeki Wachee River. The Governing Board recently approved updates to Rule 40D-9.111, Florida Administrative Code, Access to and Closure of District Lands, which outlines public access to District lands.

According to the updated rule, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park and Weekiwachee Preserve may not be accessed from any adjacent waterway or waterbody at any point, unless otherwise posted. This means visitors on the Weeki Wachee River cannot access the preserve property from the river.

The District also encourages people on the river to stay in their vessels and off shorelines when possible, to reduce environmental impacts. To learn more ways to protect the Weeki Wachee River visit WaterMatters.org/ProtectWeeki.

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park and Weekiwachee Preserve only available through Land Access

The public can still access Weeki Wachee Springs State Park and Weekiwachee Preserve through the designated land entrances. To find out more about these sites and what recreational opportunities are available there, visit WaterMatters.org/Recreation.

Weeki Wachee River image courtesy of Southwest Florida Water Management District