Escape into shady solitude under the oak hammocks of ancient forests. Discover creatures whose size is overshadowed only by their gentleness. Paddle down a gentle stream and observe the splendor of rare birds and a diverse ecosystem. Land silvery tarpon amid grassy flats. Experience quaint shops and fresh seafood in Crystal River, Homosassa, Inverness and Floral City—scenic towns brimming with history. Visit Citrus County—the heart of Florida with so many experiences to touch your soul.
MANATEES
Over a Ton of Tenderness
Manatees love Citrus County almost as much as the people who visit, and they can be found in spring-fed rivers and estuaries long our Gulf Coast. Temperate springs keep these vegetarian mammals in the area all year, and the warm water draws even more manatees to Citrus County each winter, making it the site of North America’s largest manatee gathering. And though they grow as large as 3,000 pounds, you will marvel at their gentleness.
FISHING
Few places can boast the variety of fishing experiences that Citrus County offers the eager angler. The salt waters of the Gulf of Mexico yield snapper, snook and grouper. Redfish and saltwater trout swim near the shore in the coast’s grassy flats, where portfishermen also catch massive tarpon in an annual tournament and throughout the season. From July 1 through September 10, a season on scallops draws many seafood lovers into the Gulf to participate in this snorkeling treasure hunt. Guides and charters can help you tailor your trips. Iinland, fishermen shatter records as they land enormous bass from the Tsala Apopka lakes and thlacoochee River in eastern Citrus County.
BOATING
With over 25,000 surface acres of lakes and rivers, not to mention the Gulf of Mexico, Citrus County is a boater’s paradise. From powerboating to lazy drifting, waterskiing to sailing, Citrus County provides exciting opportunities for boaters of every interest. Boat rentals are easy to find, as are unique aquatic adventures like meandering down the Withlacoochee River and the 27-mile Nature Coast Canoe Trail between Crystal River and Chassahowitzka. Seven rivers in Citrus County are designated Outstanding Florida Waterways, providing another great reason to explore the region by boat. An abundance of springs is ideal for canoeing and kayaking.
SNORKELING AND DIVING
The calm Gulf, consistently 72°F springs, spring-fed rivers and a variety of aquatic life make Citrus County an ideal destination for snorkeling and all experience levels of diving. Whether you are interested in snorkeling with manatees near Crystal River or diving into the cavern at King’s Spring, the County has the perfect place for your aquatic adventure. Citrus County’s amazingly clear springs have underwater visibility of up to 100 feet, an impressive range for viewing equally impressive marine life. The many dive shops and guide services throughout the County can ensure the excellence of your trip.
HIKING AND BIKING
The many parks, preserves and forests of Citrus County are rich with well-marked trails in whatever length suits your riding or walking expedition. Many begin at information stations or kiosks. The County contains many different types of terrain to traverse, including flat expanses, rolling land, sand dunes, oak hammocks and sun-drenched beach. Several preserves, the State Forest and the new Withlacoochee Bay Trail offer enjoyable equestrian and foot trails. The Withlacoochee State Trail is 47 scenic miles long, traveling through historic Hernando, Inverness and Floral City with a parallel equestrian trail. Bikes can be rented along the trail.
BIRDING
An Avian Adventure
Citrus County has virtually every temperate and subtropical avian ecosystem. The waters of the Gulf of Mexico attract both migratory and resident waterfowl, some of which are never seen inland. The gently rolling hills of central Citrus County are ideal for spotting upland birds. And the freshwater lakes in eastern Citrus County support another large and varied bird population. Twenty-one designated birding trails make expeditions easy, and whether you prefer biking, boating or hiking, Citrus County offers many options to lengthen your bird list. Serious bird watchers come from all over the world, and with Citrus County’s number and variety of rare, threatened and protected species—whooping cranes, sandbills, eagles, herons, pelicans, terns, plovers, red-cockaded woodpeckers and many more—it’s easy to see why.
PARKS
Dozens of parks and preserves make Citrus County the perfect place for campers, hikers, boaters, birders, fishers and all other outdoor lovers. Lose yourself for weeks in the 41,222 acres of the Citrus Tract of the Withlacoochee State Forest or spend an enjoyable afternoon observing native animals at the Homosassa Wildlife State Park. Enjoy an outing with the family at Fort Island Gulf Beach with its wonderful Gulf vista and fishing pier. There’s truly a park for everyone.
HISTORY AND MUSEUMS
2,200 Years of Natural Attraction
Citrus County is a treasure trove of historic locales and captivating museums. Relics of the area’s first Native American visitors are displayed at Crystal River Archeological State Park, where mounds from about 200 B.C. mark the site as one of the oldest settlements in Florida. Fort Cooper State Park gives visitors an interesting glimpse into the tribulation of the Second Seminole Indian War. The fort met action in 1836, and it was used strategically throughout the war. The Old Citrus County Courthouse in the County Seat of Inverness dates to 1912 and is one of only three in the state that hasn’t been altered over the decades. Many more museums and historic parks can be found in Citrus County, with sights to suit interests from Civil War ruins to printing presses. Plus, Floral City features two locations on the famed Florida Black Heritage Trail, providing a great glimpse into the lives of the area’s early African-American residents. You can also absorb history at a more leisurely pace with a walk among the shops of Inverness and Crystal River or by strolling beneath the historic Heritage Oaks of Floral City, a NationalHistoric District.
SHOPPING AND DINING
Unique shopping and exciting dining are two great reasons to come to Citrus County. A multitude of antique shops and boutiques in the streets of Crystal River and Inverness. Take a piece of the past home with you, or discover something new in a distinctive specialty shop or art gallery in Old Homosassa. When your shopping excursion inspires your appetite, Citrus County restaurants are ready to serve. Relaxed dining venues feature fresh-daily seafood from local waters and area dishes that delight.
SPECIAL EVENTS
When Citrus County Is More Fun Than Ever
There are plenty of reasons to celebrate in Citrus County, and you are invited to join the fun. Each winter the two-day Florida manatee Festival in Crystal River celebrates the manatee and increases awareness of its plight. In winter there is the Floral City Heritage Festival with tours of century-old homes, folk music, country food and more in this National Historic District. The Homosassa Arts, Crafts & Seafood Festival is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. In spring is the much-anticipated Fort Cooper Days celebration where thrilling reenactments illustrate the battles of the Second Seminole Indian War. Be sure to visit www.VisitCitrus.com for current listings.