How to Visit Citrus Hills During a Stay-at-Home Order

March and April of 2020 are proving to be a uniquely challenging time for many of us.

Many of us have been asked to stay home due to the threat of Corona Virus, while others have been required to work from home.

No matter who you are, or what your circumstances are, there’s always a way to escape to Citrus Hills.

We’ve made it easy for you!

3D Virtual Tours

With 20 different models to choose from in Citrus Hills, it’s hard to choose just ONE!

There are so many unique features that we love about all of our homes.

A great tool that we have to offer in this time of “staying home” are our 3D Virtual Tours!

We have them for just about all of our homes, so you can take a walk through one of our gorgeous models, without even leaving your couch!

Click the Pictures Below to View Our 3D Virtual Tours

Single-Family Home 3D Virtual Tours

Model Pictured: Waterford

Carefree Home 3D Virtual Tours

Model Pictured: St. Christopher

Live Streams

Take advantage of our LIVE virtual tours!

That’s right, Citrus Hills is going LIVE!

Getting creative in times like these are important.

Citrus Hills is excited to bring you a new level of visiting us on Zoom, to give you a real taste of our community!

The platform we will be using is interactive, and allows for 2-way communication for viewers, just like yourself!

Feel free to type in a question to the chat, and we will answer you live on the air!

We plan to have 2 Live Streams sent out to our email list over the next week or two.

The first Live Stream will cover our Amenities inside the gates, so you can see what it’s like to walk through the Tiki Bar or Bella Vita Spa and Fitness Center!

The second Live Stream we will be hosting includes our model homes St. Thomas, St. James, St. Christopher, Wentworth, and Waterford.

Both Live Streams will last anywhere between 20-30 (approximately) minutes EACH, and will be scheduled ahead of time.

Because of this, you will have plenty of time to work us into your schedule!

After these Live Streams, if you’d like to schedule a private one-on-one Virtual Visit for more information, you will also have the option to do so!

(Dates and times will be sent out in an email.)

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Daily Posts on Instagram

It’s true, Citrus Hills has started its own Instagram profile, to bring everyone a taste of what life is like behind the gates.

Staying up-to-date with the latest Florida Lifestyle perks is what it’s there for!

With content ranging from Citrus Hills amenities, to the unique wildlife in Florida, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

We also love suggestions!

If there’s something you want to see, just send us a message!

You don’t need your own Instagram account to enjoy the great content posted here, as this is a public account.

Don’t miss a night at the Tiki Bar, or a Manatee Appreciation post!

We’re passionate about where we live, and proud of it!

All in all…

A Stay-at-Home Order doesn’t stop us from bringing Citrus Hills right to your living room.

We also hope it doesn’t stop you from dreaming and drooling over our beautiful community and homes.

We’re on a mission to make sure you have every advantage to experience our Virtual Resources first hand, and follow our awesome content.

We hope that all of these resources will suffice until we open our doors again, and start meeting with your friendly-faces soon!

Dames and Peace Caves - Unique Florida

As we all know, there are many different day-trips to choose from in our area. Our area offers everything from beaches, springs, hiking, biking and really and natural wonder that you can think of for our state! One unique day-trip that we HIGHLY recommend here in Citrus County would have to be the Dames and Peace Caves which in the Withlacoochee State Forest!

Trail 22 Location and Information

Located just 30 minutes South of the Villages of Citrus Hills gates, this trail-head can be somewhat hard to find if you don’t know exactly where to look. If you’re looking for the correct trail, it’s called Trail 22, off of S. Lecanto Hwy (491).

There are no signs or parking area to let you know you’ve reached your destination, but there is a small peace sign spray painted at the trail-head to indicate you’ve reached it. You’ll usually see a few cars parked on the side of the road as well.

The Dames Caves Trail is an easy 1.2 mile out-and-back trail that brings you right back to the road where your car is parked. Since the trail is only elevated a total of 45 feet, the only climbing you’ll have to do is if you actually want to get in or out of some of the caves. This mild elevation makes for a nice day-hike for any age groups!

Vandal Cave

Two of the most popular caves on this trail are called “Vandal Cave” and “Peace Cave.” Vandal Cave is located if you follow the main trail-head East, and you will stumble across it right in front of you. It may look like a giant hole in the ground at first, as this cave had a roof collapse many ages ago. You are able to look directly down into Vandal Cave and see the bottom!

If you walk around the side of Vandal Cave, you’ll find a smaller cave that grants access into the heart of the beast. After a short climb, you get to experience all the natural beauty of Vandal Cave. At this point, you will also notice why it is called “Vandal Cave” with much of the walls covered in graffiti.

Peace Cave

Peace Cave is located on a sub-trail connected to Trail 22. It’s a short walk from Vandal Cave, and you can make it there in just minutes. You’ll know you’ve reached the cave when you see a giant tree with a peace sign spray painted at the base of the tree. The opening to this cave is more of a squeeze to reach the inside, but it is still very-doable. You’ll also need a flashlight for this one, as there won’t be any light to guide you in this time, like in Vandal Cave!

Once you reach the inside of these underground caves, you’ll instantly feel the temperature drop. If you’re quiet, you can hear the underground waterways passing by. There’s just no place like it.

Sandhill Cranes - Unique Florida

The Florida Sandhill Crane (Scientific Name: Grus Canadensis) is a beautiful and unique creature, and we are lucky enough to have them in Florida. Being a non-migratory bird, this species spends its entire life in Florida. Natives of the sunshine state can easily identify this bird by the red skin on its head, and its unique trumpet-like call.

Protected

Cranes are the oldest birds on the planet. The oldest Florida Sandhill Crane fossils are estimated to be 2.5 million years old! There are now estimated to be around 5,000 left in Florida’s population today. Since these cranes are usually found in freshwater ponds and marshes, they have many obstacles that threaten their species. These threats include wetland drainage and conversion of prairie for development. Reasons such as this have made the Florida Sandhill Crane a protected species by the U.S. Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

Appearance

Some unique features about this wondrous crane are surrounding its appearance! Not only is its head an interesting brick-red color, but this bird also stands up to 4 - 5 feet and has been recorded to weigh around 10-14 pounds! That’s a big bird! In many cases its wingspan is longer than the bird stands. A Florida Sandhill Crane can have a wingspan up to 6 – 7 feet! Newborn Sandhill Cranes have an orange tint to their feathers for the first couple of months of its life. Many residents in the Florida region look forward to June/July to start seeing the newly born cranes.

Reproduction

Florida Sandhill Cranes are monogamous, which means they breed for life. Since their lifespan can be up to 30 – 40 years, that is about as long as some humans spend their lives together too! If you’re driving down the road, and you see a Florida Sandhill Crane, chances are they are not going to be alone. Usually they are seen in pairs, or groups! The mating season for these Florida Cranes falls in the spring, between April and May. Their eggs take anywhere from 29-32 days to hatch, and then the little orange newborn pops out! Florida Sandhill Cranes also raise their young together.

If you’re a Florida resident, you already know the beauty we have here, and how lucky we are to have this beautiful creature living in our climate. The Sandhill Cranes adds a unique experience to any day on the river, or even a bird-watching tour at one of the state parks!

Sunscreen is a Vital Tool in the Fight Against Skin Cancer

Dermatologists Say Sunscreen is a Vital Tool in the Fight Against Skin Cancer, the Most Common Cancer in the U.S.

With summer just around the corner, it’s important to remember that daily use of sunscreen could decrease the incidence of melanoma, which is the deadliest form of skin cancer. It is also important to use sunscreen in conjunction with seeking shade and wearing protective clothing, to include a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. This will all assist in protecting you from skin cancer and early skin again, such as wrinkles and age spots.

For the best protection, the AAD recommends looking for sunscreens with the following terms on the label:

-          Broad-spectrum: This means that the sunscreen helps protect from ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays, both of which can cause skin cancer.

-          SPF 30 or Higher: This indicated how well a sunscreen protects you from sunburn. Dermatologists recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, which blocks 97% of the sun’s UVB rays (the burning rays). Higher-number SPF’s block slightly more, however no sunscreen can block 100% of the sun’s UV rays.

-          Water Resistant: Sunscreens can be water resistant for 40 minutes or 80 minutes. However, they ae not waterproof or sweatproof and need to be reapplied every two hours when outdoors, or after swimming or sweating.

Recent reports suggest that less than half of Americans look for a product with broad-spectrum protection. Considering that unprotected exposure to the sun’s UV rays is a major risk factor for ski9n cancer, its important to make an informed decision.

Additionally, there are two types of sunscreens available-chemical and physical. Both protect you from the sun but not in the same way.

-          Chemical sunscreens work like a sponge, absorbing the sun’s rays. They contain one or more of the following active ingredients: Avobezone, ensulizole, homosalate, octinoxate, octisalate, octocrylene or oxybenzone.

-          Physical sunscreens, also known as mineral sunscreen, act like a shield. They sit on the surface of the skin, primarily deflecting the sun’s rays. They include the active ingredients titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide, and are recommended for people with sensitive skin.

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, and nearly one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. To assist in the prevention of this most common skin cancer, follow rules above, perform self-checks of moles and lesions on your body routinely, see a Board-Certified Dermatologist for annual exams, or whenever you see a change in any lesion. For any questions or concerns, feel free to call our informed personnel at Suncoast Dermatology and Skin Surgery Center, PA

Citrus County: 525 Dacie Point, Lecanto FL 34461 - (352) 746-2200

Marion County: 9401 SW Hwy 200, Ocala FL 34481 – (352) 873-1500

We would like to thank Suncoast Dermatology for sharing this important information with us!

Top 4 Dog-Friendly Parks in Citrus County

Living in paradise doesn’t have to only apply to humans. Man’s best friend seems to love it here too! There are MANY options for dog-friendly parks and fun in Citrus County, but we’ve narrowed it down to our top 4!

1.     Villages of Citrus Hills – Rockwood Park

Villages of Citrus Hills has a lot to offer its residents in the community, as well as their furry friends! The community park, Rockwood Park, has an extremely accommodating dog park that your pup will love!

With right around 2 acres of land for your pup to run around and make friends, you can sit back and relax, knowing he’s got everything he needs in a close vicinity. There are multiple doggy clean-up stations, so if little Charlie has an accident on his way to play-time, you’re covered. You won’t have to worry about watching your step when walking your pup around the park either (hopefully).

There is also a dog-wash area! We all know a dog that runs around and rolls in the dirt the second he’s set loose outside. If your dog is anything like that, you’ll be thankful for this dog-wash area! There’s nothing worse than getting back to our car, only to realize your pooch is covered in mud!

If your pooch is shy, there is more than one fenced in area as well. Big dog and small dog areas are separated for your and Rover’s convenience! There’s nothing better than a big lovable labrador that just wants to lick everyone and everything in its sight, but smaller dogs might find that just a little bit scary and overwhelming! Rest assured, you will have options here in our community dog park!

2.     Bark Central Dog Park - Inverness

Dog parks in Citrus County give many great opportunities for your dog to release his energy, and be social with others of their kind. Dogs love other dogs, and this park offers a great open space for dogs to play with each other and swim as they please!

Surrounded by a giant six-foot chain link fence, this massive dog park extends a total of 15 acres. Surely that is enough land for your little friend to get all of his energy out, and enjoy the beautiful Florida weather!

If your dog likes to swim, this is the place to be! Bark Central Dog Park offers multiple man-made swimming areas that are filtered similar to a fish tank aquarium filter! No chemicals are added, making it safe for your dog to swim and drink the water if he/she pleases! Although maybe bringing your own water would be better, since it is a swimming pool, after all.

If your small Chihuahua doesn’t mix well with someone else’s giant labrador retriever, it’s no worry! This dog park has designated areas for smaller dogs, with plenty of room to roam! Rest assured, your little Buttercup won’t be bothered by any big scary dogs here.

Another thing that makes this dog park one of the best in the county, is the outdoor rinse station! For those of you that have a dog that can’t help himself when he sees a body of water, this rinse station will be your best friend. There’s nothing worse than riding home with a wet, muddy Rover in the back seat!

The last thing that makes this dog park one of the best in the county would definitely be the fact that proof of rabies and DHLPPC vaccinations are required upon entry. Rest assured, if little Jelly Bean and Fluffy decide to play in the grass, and there’s little scrapes on Fluffy when you get home, there’s nothing to worry about!

3.     Whispering Pines Park - Inverness

The next top dog-friendly park that we’re going to cover is also in Inverness! As there are multiple county parks to choose from that are dog friendly, our favorite would have to be Whispering Pines Park.

This park is not only completely beautiful with its wooded landscaping made up of big beautiful oak trees, but it offers a lot for you to do as well as your pup! With a direct path to the Withlacoochee State Trail, there’s no question about if your dog is going to enjoy a nice hike.

This park also has multiple dog-walking trails setup for you to come and spend the day in the beautiful Central Florida weather. Unlike the other surrounding parks, this is the only one with dog-walking trails for your convenience. As these dog-walking trails are all under 3 miles, it’s a great way to start a nice cool Sunday afternoon. Maybe afterwards you can head over to the butterfly garden and watch the butterflies dance along the flower-tops.

The last deciding-factor for you to choose this park as your next day out in the sun with Sparky, would be the doggy clean-up stations they have available to you. There’s nothing worse than walking your dog in the park on a beautiful summer day, and then all of the sudden you realize you need to change your shoes, because there was nowhere for someone to clean up after their furry friend.

The next time you’re sitting around the house, and you’re looking at the weather forecast for a nice Florida day in the park, remember this option for you and Rover!

4.     Crystal River Archaeological Park – Crystal River

Another great option for you to consider would be the Crystal River Archaeological Park. This park may not have some of the other dog-specific amenities as others, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a fantastic option for you and Biscuit this weekend!

As this National Historic Landmark does sit at about 61-acres, there’s a lot of choices as far as dog-friendly activities. For instance, if you’re in the mood for a picnic with your loved ones, there are designated areas with plenty of space for little Charlie to nibble on a squeaky toy while you enjoy your lunch!

Another fun dog-friendly activity at the Crystal River Archaeological Park would have to be the Geocaching opportunities. Geo-seeking has always been popular among the Crystal River community, but with the current state of constant connection with others on the internet, it is as popular as ever! This park allows for hiding and hunting for small treasures, and who better to help you hunt than your furry companion?

All of the dog-friendly trails in this park vary depending on how far you like to hike. Some are under 2 miles long, where others are around 7 miles long. There’s really no better way to spend a Sunday afternoon than with a nice breezy hike through this park.

Best of all, these parks are less than 20 minutes from the front gates at Terra Vista!