Anclote Key Preserve State Park

Located three miles off the coast of Tarpon Springs, Anclote Key Preserve State Park is accessible only by private boat or ferry service. Enjoy the blue-green Gulf waters that lap gently along the sandy beaches of the four islands that make up Anclote Key Preserve State Park - Anclote Key, North Anclote Bar, South Anclote Bar and Three Rooker Island. The 403-acre park is home to at least 43 species of birds, including the American oystercatcher, bald eagle and piping plover. A picturesque 1887 lighthouse stands as a sentinel on the southern end of the island. Visitors can swim and sunbathe at the beach, fire up a grill and enjoy a picnic, or pitch a tent and enjoy a night of primitive camping under the stars. There are no provisions offered on the island, so be prepared to bring your own water and supplies. Ferry service to the island is offered by these providers: Sponge-O-Rama: 727-943-2164 Odyssey Cruises: 727-934-0547 Private Island Charters: 727-534-8818. These ferries leave from Tarpon Springs' historic Sponge Docks. Windsong Charters, 727-859-0213; Island Paradise Charters, 877-774-0589; and Private Island Charters, 727-534-8818, run charters from Pasco County. Ferry services do not drop visitors off for overnight camping. You must have your own transportation to stay overnight. Dogs are allowed only on North Anclote Bar.