Outdoor Recreation in Citrus County

Disneyland for Nature-Lovers

It’s hard to know where to begin when it comes to describing all there is to do here in Citrus County. Take a quiet ride kayaking along a spring-fed river, or try landing one of the legendary largemouth bass found in Lake Tsala Apopka. Snorkel with the manatees or hike into a prime spot for a peaceful day of bird watching. With nearly 50 percent of the county now protected, the region will keep its natural beauty and ample outdoor activities.

Boating and Kayaking

Citrus County is a boater's paradise with various options for water lovers. There's something for everyone, from motor boating, sailing, pontoon boats, and jet skiing to air boating, public boat ramps, boat tours, and deep-sea fishing tours. With dozens of natural Florida springs, 52 miles of the Gulf of Mexico coastline, and 141 miles of the Withlacoochee River, there's always something new to explore.

Citrus Hills is just 10 minutes from the Gulf of Mexico, providing residents and visitors easy access to all the boating and kayaking adventures this region offers. Multiple options are available for boat rentals, and numerous marinas and boat storage facilities make it easy to get out on the water and enjoy the area's natural beauty. Whether you're a seasoned boater or a beginner, Citrus County's great boating options make it an ideal place for everyone to get out on the water and enjoy the area's natural beauty.

Walking and Cycling Trails

Nature enthusiasts have many opportunities to walk and cycle in Citrus County. The Rockwood Park Walking/Biking Trail, located within Citrus Hills, is perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride, while the Withlacoochee State Trail provides a longer path, with 46 miles of both paved and unpaved trails. The Withlacoochee State Forest is another stunning location for hiking and cycling, offering nearly 157,479 acres of exploration.

Within a 30-minute drive from Citrus County, there are numerous state parks and preserves to choose from, including Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, Crystal River Preserve State Park, Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, Fort Cooper State Park, Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park, Rainbow Springs State Park, Crystal River Archaeological State Park, and more. Several trailheads include the 7-Mile Loop Trailhead, Redfish Hole Trailhead, Potts Preserve, South Citrus Springs Trailhead, and Annutteliga Hammock Trailhead. For those seeking a more adventurous outdoor experience, the Waccasassa Bay Preserve State Park, Silver Springs State Park, Lake Griffin State Park, and Weeki Wachee Springs State Park are all within easy reach.

Swimming, Snorkeling and Diving

When you think of a paradise for water lovers with abundant swimming, snorkeling, and diving options, Citrus County should come to mind. The area is famous for its freshwater springs, rivers, and lakes, making it the perfect place for exploring. Visitors can rent kayaks or canoes to paddle along the peaceful waterways, including Three Sisters Springs, Rainbow Springs State Park, Hunter Springs, Rainbow River, Crystal River, Fort Island Beach, and 7 Sisters Spring. With year-round spring water temperatures of around 72 degrees F, these natural Florida springs are an ideal destination for swimming and snorkeling.

Citrus County, and nearby areas, also boast some of the area's top diving and underwater cave locations, including Crystal River, Rainbow River, Manatee Springs, Blue Springs, Blue Grotto, Devil’s Den, Paradise Springs, Ginnie Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs. These sites offer unique opportunities to witness the fascinating underwater world and experience the thrill of diving in some of the country's clearest and most beautiful water.

Salt and Fresh Water Fishing

Citrus County boasts exceptional fishing options, whether saltwater or freshwater fishing. With 52 miles of Gulf of Mexico coastline, saltwater fishing enthusiasts can indulge in a variety of catches, including grouper, snapper, sea trout, tuna, Spanish mackerel, cobia, sheepshead, tarpon, redfish, and even bay scallops. For those who prefer freshwater fishing, the county offers large-mouth bass, sunshine bass, speckled perch, catfish, mullet, and bluegill. Deep-sea fishing tours are also available.

During scallop season, which usually runs from July through September, visitors can catch their own wild scallops and even bring them home for dinner. Stone crab season usually runs from October through May and offers similar opportunities. Check the fishing/scalloping/stone crabbing regulations on myfwc.com before venturing into the water!

Birding

If you’re a birding enthusiast, this is the place for you! Citrus County offers an exceptional birding experience with 18 designated bird-watching trails to explore. Bird watchers can spot a wide variety of rare, threatened, and protected species of birds throughout the county.

In addition to these rare species, the county is also home to many common bird species such as wild turkeys, peacocks, sandhill cranes, bald eagles, doves, blue-jays, cardinals, great blue herons, pileated woodpeckers, other woodpeckers, finches, pelicans, plovers, egrets, eagles, falcons, hawks, and many cranes.

Whether you're a serious bird watcher or enjoy spotting some feathered friends, Citrus County provides an excellent opportunity to experience a wide variety of bird species in their natural habitat.

Other Wildlife

Citrus County offers diverse wildlife options for everyone on both land and water. Manatee and dolphin tours are available nearly year-round, providing a unique opportunity to witness these incredible marine mammals up close.

In addition to these tours, visitors can spot river otters along the freshwater rivers, such as the Rainbow and Chassahowitzka Rivers. The protected gopher tortoise can also be found on every nature trail and even in your front yard sometimes!

Citrus County is also home to other wildlife species, including the Cuban tree frog and many sea turtle and ray species off the Gulf Coast.

Hidden Gems

Several hidden gems worth exploring can be found in Citrus County. Dames Cave and Peace Cave, located in the Withlacoochee State Forest, offer visitors a chance to witness the beauty of underground formations and unwind in a serene environment.

Rainbow River State Park and the Hidden Waters Preserve are other hidden gems in Citrus County that boast multiple waterfalls and serene surroundings. For those interested in history, the Avenue of the Oaks in Floral City and Crumps Landing in Homosassa provide glimpses into the area's rich past. Lastly, Three Sisters Springs in Crystal River is a must-visit hidden gem allowing visitors to see manatees up close and witness the area's natural beauty.

Horseback Riding

Citrus County offers numerous options for horseback riding enthusiasts to explore the area's natural beauty. The county boasts dozens of horseback riding-friendly trails, allowing riders to experience the diverse landscapes and wildlife of the area. From riding through the lush forests to exploring the coastline, there is a trail for every skill level. With many local horse-rental facilities, visitors can easily rent a horse and hit the trails.

Whether you're a seasoned equestrian or a beginner rider, Citrus County has plenty of horseback riding options to satisfy your adventurous spirit. For those looking for a more advanced riding experience, the Equestrian Center in Ocala is just 30 minutes away from the gates of Citrus Hills. This facility offers a wide variety of activities, including trail riding, show jumping, and dressage. With its world-class facilities and expert trainers, the Equestrian Center is the perfect destination for serious riders looking to take their skills to the next level.

Fruit Picking & Gardening

Citrus County, Florida, is a prime location for gardening enthusiasts. The area's climate, categorized as Garden Zone 9B, is perfect for growing a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. From citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits to common garden vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers, you'll find that almost every type of produce will thrive in this region. The availability of fresh local produce is abundant and a great source of pride for the community.

In addition to buying fresh produce from local sources, Citrus County offers many U-Pick options. U-Pick farms provide a unique experience for families to pick their own fruit and vegetables directly from the source. Blueberries, strawberries, and citrus fruits are just a few examples of what's available for picking in Citrus County. These U-Pick options are a fun and affordable way to spend time outdoors with family and friends while also enjoying the fruits of your labor.

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