withacoohee state forest

We wanted a good hike through the Withlacoochee State Forest (note the correct spelling), but we spent quite a while finding it. There are patches of state forest scattered over several counties, and we wasted an hour driving to the ranger station north of Brooksfield. The excellent trail we finally found is called the Annutteliga Hammock Trail, and it is not far from US 19. Here's the way I'd go back: From Crystal Springs, take 19 south about 10 miles past Homosassa and turn left on Oak Park Blvd (FL 480). After 5-6 miles, turn right on LeConto Hwy (FL 491). The trailhead is just past Hebron Baptist Church on the right. Drive up a dirt jeep trail a couple of blocks to the trailhead.The trail is 4 miles in a large loop through mixed forest with light undergrowth. The path is marked by orange blazes, with double blazes where the trail turns. It is fun to follow the blazes, but you have to keep an eye out, because the path is well-covered with pine needles and is not always obvious. The area traversed by the trail is a geological formation called the Brooksfield Ridge, and it features sinkholes, rock outcroppings, and other interesting sights. The only wildlife we saw was a blacksnake, and it was as started by us as we were by it!This path is long enough to stretch your legs and burn off a few calories. I would rate it easy to moderate.

We rented bikes to travel the trail around a lovely lake. Bike paths are well maintained and smooth. The scenery is fantastic - peaceful and refreshing. A great time

went to look for fishing location. would have to drive 5 miles down the dirt road to get to beach and hopefully find a good spot along the canel till u hit the beach....maybe when the water is warmer.

This was fun as a group to explore some caves a hike around for a while. Not something I would do again soon. I would rather be on the water in this area, so much more to do.

46 miles of trails that can promise you a thrill. Travel through many environments and be prepared for elevation changes! This is not "flat Florida" Make sure you carry water as these trails are dry. Call Dept of forestry to obtain permit prior to hiking as portions open to hunters in season - . 3 local campgrounds and a colony of endangered red-cockaded woodpeckers are pluses to hiking here. Great trails for hiking and horseback. There are even shallow caves in the southern portion of the forest. I have guided hikes for days out there and not seen another human...many coyotes, hog, deer and turkey though!

We walked along the trails, which were kept very clean and clear. The shade from the trees made walking very enjoyable.

I heard about this place from the Captain at River Ventures (great manatee touring company) and decided to check it out before coming home to Miami. I am glad I did. The caves were difficult to find, I suggest you google map (peace cave) before going...it was pretty fantastic to be near caves that are wild and unkept.We had also gone to Caverns State Park in the panhandle...and that cave system is gorgeous. Great to see a kept state park and a wild site. Both systems had bats.

Love the forests of FL - always cool to visit and hike and kayak!

Great trails for walking. We also drove down one of the logging trails, but we did have a Jeep. It was sandy.

This is a State of Florida Forrestry Property with the majority of the property being in Citrus County and some flowing into Hernando and maybe Sumter County. Equestrian, hiking, camping and hunting facilities this huge tract of land changes faces with the seasons. There's a cool ranger named Sid Taylor that works at the Tillis Hill location (campground and equestrian) she can talk for HOURS about native plants, red cockeded woodpeckers, caves and bats and the history of the phosphate industry in Florida. Not a MUST see for everyone, but a true Florida preservation accomplishment. I go there when I need to get lost for awhile and listen to nature.