Citrus County, Florida
Statistics
Founded
Area
- Total
- Land
- Water
Population
- (2000)
- Density
118,085
78/km²
Website: www.bocc.citrus.fl.us
Citrus County, Florida |
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Website: www.bocc.citrus.fl.us |
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Citrus County is a county located in the U.S. state of Florida. As of 2000, the population was 118,085. The U.S. Census Bureau 2006 estimate for the county is 138,143 [1]. Its county seat is Inverness, Florida6. More than 90% of the population of Citrus County live outside the two incorporated cities of Inverness and Crystal River.
History
Citrus County was created in 1887. The Citrus County area was formally part of a Hernando County. It was named for the county's citrus trees. Citrus production declined dramatically after the "Big Freeze" of 1894-1895. Today, citrus is grown on one large grove, Bellamy Grove. Additionally, some people do have trees on their personal property.
Phosphate mining also played a major part in the history of the County until the end of WWII in which phosphate mining was largely moved overseas. The first newspaper of Citrus County was called the Phosphate Times.
In the 1980's Citrus County began to develop and housing developments such as Beverly Hills started to dominate the county.
Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 2,002 km² (773 mi²). 1,512 km² (584 mi²) of it is land and 490 km² (189 mi²) of it (24.49%) is water.
Demographics
As of the census2 of 2000, there were 118,085 people, 62,204 households, and 25,350 families residing in the county. The population density was 3,051.2 persons per square mile (1,177.3/km²). There were 9,359 housing units at an average density of 1,365.1 houses per square mile (526.8/km²). The racial makeup of the county was 95.0% White, 2.4% African American, 0.4% Native American, 0.8% Asian, 0.0% Pacific Islander, 0.4% from other races, and 0.4% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.7% of the population.
There were 62,204 households out of which 21.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 46.9% were married couples living together, 20.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 48.3% were non-families. 28.9% of all households were made up of individuals and 18.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.20 and the average family size was 2.60.
In the county the population was spread out with 17.2% under the age of 18, 4.6% from 18 to 24, 19.1% from 25 to 44, 26.9% from 45 to 64, and 32.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 52.6 years. For every 100 females there were 91.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 87.2 males.
The median income for a household in the county was $44,508, and the median income for a family was $56,809. Males had a median income of $38,384 versus $32,107 for females. The per capita income for the city was $26,515. About 5.4% of families and 7.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 5.8% of those under age 18 and 8.9% of those age 65 or over.
Politics
Citrus County leans slightly Republican in national, state and local races, electing a mix of some local Conservative Democrats and Republicans, while generally voting Republican in presidential elections.
Presidential elections results |
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56.9% |
42.1% |
1.0% |
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52.1% |
44.6% |
3.3% |
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40.6% |
44.4% |
15.0% |
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36.7% |
35.6% |
27.9% |
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63.0% |
36.4% |
0.7% |
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Government links/Constitutional offices
The largest tourism attraction to Citrus County would be that it is the only place in the United States where one can legally interact and swim with the West Indian Manatee. This threatened species makes Citrus County's spring fed rivers its wintering home. According to the US Fish & Wildlife Services' Aerial Manatee Surveys as many as 400 of these playful creatures can be found in Citrus County at one time.
Cities and communities of Citrus County, Florida |
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Freshwater Pleasures
to Suit Every Aquatic Activity
Florida’s springs are a visible sign of rivers that run underground and then turn toward the surface where they discharge their clear, clean water into a pond. Many Florida rivers are really surface extensions of underground streams. They flow outward from a spring, supporting countless plants and animals with their temperate water.
Lakes in Citrus County can be small enough to swim across or large enough to support power boats, water skiing and even sailing. The Chain of Lakes near Inverness links several large lakes into a continuous body of water more than 20 miles in length.
Where spring-fed freshwater rivers flow into the Gulf of Mexico, a combination of stable temperature, even in winter, and the mixing of fresh and salt water, supports North America’s largest gathering of manatees and many other aquatic creatures including Florida’s famous and delicious blue crabs.
So Many Places to Float Your Boat,
So Many Different Kinds of Water
With seven “Outstanding Florida Waterways” to its credit, Citrus County has every imaginable venue for every kind of watercraft. Whether you favor fresh water or salt water, you’ll find plenty of marinas, launch ramps, piers and docks.
Towards the east, around Inverness, a mighty, 22-mile long chain of freshwater lakes plays host to skiers, sightseers and the pursuit of bass. Flowing toward the gulf, spring-fed rivers provide great fun and, again, matchless fishing.
The quiet inshore waters of the estuarine Gulf Coast play host to manatees and require the utmost care in running motors. But farther out in the gulf, serious cruising and game fishing are popular.
Virtually all lodging places and resorts located along a lake, river or shoreline offer rental boats, canoes or chartered rides. Those places without their own marinas can make reservations and arrangements for any kind of watercraft a guest requests. Local guides are available to steer you toward the best fishing or nature watching.
List of boat ramps in Citrus County
List of boat tours in Citrus County
See the World From a New Perspective As You Glide Silently Over the Water
The Nature Coast Canoe & Kayak Trail takes a paddler through some of the most pristine salt marshes in the Southeast. Year-round wildlife in the area includes osprey, eagles, many species of wading birds, manatees, dolphins, alligators and raccoons. The trail begins on the Salt River off Crystal River (near the Marine Science Center) and follows the markers on the Salt River south to the Homosassa River and continues east on the Homosassa about a hundred feet to Battle Creek. The southern leg of the trail, the Michael Byer Memorial Trail, picks up the markers right at the Homosassa and Battle Creek and continues south through Seven Cabbage Cut to the mouth of the Chassahowitzka River. The total length of the trail is 12 miles.
For the experienced canoeist, the blackwater Withlacoochee River (a Florida Outstanding Waterway) offers an 83-mile designated canoe trail that begins in Pasco County and continues to the Citrus/Marion County line in Dunnellon at the U.S. 41 bridge.
If an 83-mile trek is more than you care to undertake, you can pick a smaller segment of the overall trail to navigate or try one of the rivers on the west coast. One of the best is the Chassahowitzka River. The Chassahowitzka River Campground is operated by the Citrus County Division of Parks and Recreation, and offers canoes for rent. The scenic Chassahowitzka (another Florida Outstanding Waterway) has a number of side creeks and tributaries for the adventurous. If you navigate its length you will find beautiful freshwater springs nestled at the heart of its headwaters.
Less-Traveled Roads, Bike-Friendly Towns and the Best Trail in Florida
Withlacoochee Trail State Park Click Here is a wide, asphalt-paved trail approximately 47 miles long, that follows much of the course of the Withlacoochee River. The trail is built on the former right-of-way of an abandoned railroad track and spans several counties as it traverses mile after mile of natural lands and riverbanks. Ideal for bicycle touring, the trail also attracts roller blade enthusiasts and equestrians who appreciate the dirt path that parallels the entire trail. On the north end, the Citrus Springs Trailhead provides parking, restrooms, a drinking fountain and maps. From there, riders go generally southward, skirting the lake in Hernando, to the charming town of Inverness. There, the rider can enjoy two lake-side parks with facilities or go off the path for shopping and restaurants. The trail continues southward through Historic Floral City.
On-the-road cycling can be enjoyed along South Pleasant Grove Road (C.R. 581), Stagecoach Trail (C.R. 480) and the internal roadways of housing developments in Citrus Springs, Sugarmill Woods, Pine Ridge, Citrus Hills and Beverly Hills. Each offers something different: acres of undeveloped land with paved roads, challenging hills and panoramic miles-wide views. The 9-mile Fort Island Trail traverses scenic salt marshes on the way to the beach and fishing pier.
For the adventurous in spirit, off-road biking is available on two Southwest Florida Water Management District tracts: Potts Preserve and Flying Eagle. The St. Martins Marsh Aquatic Preserve offers a 5-mile trail. The trails are unpaved, so primitive biking procedures and precautions should be practiced.
DISCOVER FLORIDA’S
FABLED FISHING GROUNDS
“It’s just better here.”
That’s what you’re likely to hear if you talk to an angler familiar with the rich waters of Crystal River, Homosassa and Inverness. You can bring your lightest-weight fly rod, your favorite fast-taper bass rod, your deep-sea rig or your crappie stick. Because no matter what kind of fishing you prefer, you’ll find success somewhere in Citrus County.
Sport fishers can tackle a wide variety of species in the area’s rivers, estuaries, grassy flats and the Gulf of Mexico. Massive redfish, trout, tarpon, cobia, grouper and other species all await in these waters. The Tsala Apopka lake chain in the Inverness area also boasts some of the very best largemouth bass fishing you’ll find anywhere. And not all the fishing requires a pole: A bountiful scalloping season runs from July 1 to September 10.
If a sudden desire to fish catches you without a license, you can actually take care of the formalities right online through the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission. The site also has complete rules and regulations for all types of fishing.
Whichever type of angling you choose, enlisting the aid of an experienced local guide and fishing midweek—when the area’s waters are even more peaceful—will help you make the most of your Citrus County adventure.
Citrus County on Foot: A Close Look at the Land and Its Natural Beauty
Citrus County is exceptionally hiker friendly. Those with the stamina and time to explore our wide range of terrain can hike through sandhill, scrub, hardwood hammock, swampland, prairie and marshland. In addition to unimproved paths, interpretive nature walks and hiking trails reveal unique ecosystems and the plants and creatures that inhabit them.
Many other activities take on a delightful new aspect when pursued in conjunction with hiking. Bird-watching, camping and fishing are all enriched when they are part of a hiker’s agenda. And the timespan of a hike can be a day, a weekend or as long as your visit—and your legs—allow.
One of the most scenic and enjoyable hiking venues in the state is provided by the Withlacoochee Trail State Park. It consists of a 46-mile stretch of railroad track that has been converted to a recreation area suitable for hiking, biking and horse riding enthusiasts. The Withlacoochee Trail State Park starts just north of S.R. 50, a mile east of I-75, and continues through the Withlacoochee State Forest near the Withlacoochee River, then continues north through Floral City, Inverness and Citrus Springs, and ends at Gulf Junction just south of Dunnellon.
Citrus County golf courses are world famous for the quality of the grounds and the wealth of natural scenery and wildlife that can be observed while playing. This is a much-sought recreation during the winter months, and a year-round challenge for players of all ages and abilities. In addition to the public courses of Citrus County, a number of highly respected private courses and clubs can be found here.
Resident Birds, Plus Winter Visitors Make This a Bird Watcher’s Paradise
Citrus County has a rich selection of more than 250 species of birds that have been extensively cataloged and listed in several authoritative publications. Some of these species that you can expect to spot are listed at www.citrusbirdingtrail.com.
Citrus County is home to the largest concentration of Red-Cockaded Woodpeckers in peninsular Florida. Citrus County is also the site for the reintroduction of a migratory flock of Whooping Cranes.
Also, the Great Florida Birding Trail winds throughout Crystal River, Homosassa Springs and Inverness. A good place to start your own bird watching interest is to visit their site at www.floridabirdingtrail
Explore the Outdoors on Your Own, Take a Tour or Hire a Guide
The first visitors to Citrus County came here to experience Florida’s natural beauty. They cruised the rivers and lakes, noted the unique vegetation and wildlife, and admired the birds and marine creatures. Those experiences are still available here.
Our heritage attractions provide brochures and signs, along with docents to explain the property. Our wilderness areas have kiosks with information and wildlife officers to answer questions.
Our most unique offering is our large population of manatees. These large marine mammals gather in the rivers and inshore waters where they can be watched from land or encountered in their own element by scuba and snorkel divers. But manatees must be approached with great caution, and it is wise to engage a guide who can explain safety rules that keep humans and manatees from harming one another. Boaters beware: Manatee protection rules are clearly posted and strictly enforced
Experience a Whole New World of Beauty Under Citrus County Waters
Armed with little more than a swim mask and a snorkel, you’re ready to explore the close-in world where the rivers of Citrus County flow into the Gulf of Mexico. It’s a world of beautiful fish, interesting plant and animal life at the river’s headwaters or along the sea floor, and the winter home of manatees who favor the comparatively warmer waters here. But you’re not as well insulated as a manatee, and you may want to consider a wet suit.
Just about anyone can enjoy snorkeling, and for the more adventurous, scuba excursions probe deeper waters. Springs and sinkholes can challenge even the most expert scuba diver. It is vitally important to have the proper training and a knowledgeable guide when undertaking exploratory dives, and to follow some sensible safety procedures. Any of the commercial establishments specializing in scuba gear can recommend training, locate a suitable guide and double-check your equipment
The Withlacoochee State Trail Offers Unmatched Enjoyment for Hikers, Bikers and Bird Watchers
The Withlacoochee State Trail currently consists of a 46-mile paved stretch of railroad right-of-way that has been converted to a recreation area suitable for hiking, biking and horse riding enthusiasts.
Trail map
The Withlacoochee State Trail begins at S.R. 50, a mile east of I-75 and runs north through the Withlacoochee State Forest and near the Withlacoochee River, continues north through Floral City, Inverness and Citrus Springs, ending at Gulf Junction just south of Dunnellon. The trail is open from sunrise to sunset, seven days a week.
Parking for the Withlacoochee State Trail is located off C.R. 575, Trilby Trailhead, S.R. 50 Trailhead, Silver Lake Campground, Townsen Lake Regional Park off C.R. 476, Desoto Trail Kiosk off U.S. 41, Wallace Brooks Park in Inverness, South Citrus Springs Trailhead and North Citrus Springs Trailhead.
For more information, contact:
Bob Seifer
Withlacoochee State Trail
12549 State Park Drive
Clermont, FL 34711
(352) 394-2280
Meet a Manatee at a Distance
or Nose-to-Nose
Manatees are large marine mammals that favor the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and cluster in and around Crystal River and Homosassa, especially during the cooler winter months. Our relatively warmer waters, with an average temperature of 72%F from the springs, attract these gentle animals. During the coldest times, about 400 can be found herding in the waters of Citrus County.
The Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge was established to provide critical habitat for the endangered manatees and is now home to more than 25% of the nation’s population.
Snorkeling is an excellent way to observe manatees at close range. These excursions should always be made with the assistance of a guide or a tour company which can supply everything you’ll need, including mask, snorkel and wet suit. The guide will also inform you of the important procedures for getting close to a manatee without alarming the animal or endangering swimmers.
Slow-moving manatees are especially vulnerable to wounds from the propellers of boats that navigate carelessly in their midst, and many estuaries are posted with strictly enforced rules for boaters. Boaters are urged to read, understand and observe the manatee protection guidelines posted at every marina.
Another great way to meet a manatee is to visit the Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park . The park serves as a rehabilitation center and refuge for injured and orphaned endangered West Indian manatees. A unique feature of the park is the famous "fishbowl" where visitors can view the manatees in the spring from an underwater observatory - staying dry the entire time!
DIVE INTO SCALLOPING ADVENTURE IN CITRUS COUNTY
July 1 – September 10, 2007
Scalloping Packages :: Scalloping Excursions :: Scalloping Supplies
Every year, from July 1 to mid-September, scalloping comes to Citrus County. Part snorkeling experience, part treasure dive and part saltwater fishing trip, scalloping along the unspoiled shores of Crystal River and Homosassa provides a salty adventure to fishers of all ages. Citrus County’s bay scallops rest under about five or six feet of water, just offshore along the grassy lip of the Gulf of Mexico. All it takes is a snorkel, a mask, a mesh bag and a saltwater fishing license to get in on the action.
The 2006 scalloping season went swimmingly, and seafood lovers from all over the Sunshine State and beyond ventured to Citrus to dive for the meaty morsels, having an ocean of fun as they literally bagged their limits.
The bag limit is 2 gallons of whole scallops (in the shell), or 1 pint of scallop meat per person per day. In addition, no more than 10 gallons of whole scallops or 1/2 gallon of scallop meats may be possessed aboard any vessel at any time. You may harvest scallops only by hand or with a landing or dip net. Scallopers must remain in the legal scalloping area (from Mexico Beach to the Pasco-Hernando county line) while in possission of scallops on the water including the point where they return to land.
Click on the links at the top of this page to find local businesses that will complete your scallop adventure. Guides, accommodations and supplies are ready and available.
Indulge, Exercise and Enjoy
Whether you want to excite your senses with a day spa’s delights or find the perfect place to stay in shape, Citrus County is ready.
Find the perfect facial, manicure, massage or pedicure amid the ambiance of our ever-attentive day spas. Or, give yourself a boost with a high-energy workout at any of our well-equipped fitness centers. Either way, you will discover an ideal interlude to your natural getaway.
Enjoy "Mother Nature's Theme Park" |
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Fishing:
Citrus County is one of the prime fishing spots within the state of Florida having pristine and productive estuaries. Our Gulf of Mexico coastline is famous for spotted sea trout, redfish, cobia (seasonal), grouper, spanish mackarel, sheephead, shark, black drum, jack crevell, bluefish, and tarpon. In 1993 the world record tarpon was caught right here in Citrus County! When it comes to fresh water fishing Citrus and surrounding counties have it all. Lake Tsala Apopka, Lake Rousseau and the Withlacoochee River offer outstanding fresh water fishing for large mouth bass, blue gills, stump knockers, and brem. Fish from the Gulf of Mexico, from piers, by boat, or local fishing guides will bring you directly to the reefs, grass beds and flats. Public boat ramps provide easy access to all of its major waterways.
Boating, Kayaking and Canoeing:
With seven "Outstanding Florida Waterways" to its credit (Withlacoochee River, St. Martins River, Salt River, Halls River, Homosassa River and Chassahowitzka River), Citrus County offers endless boating opportunities on both salt and fresh water. As if seven rivers weren't enough, we have 22 miles of inland lakes and coastline on the Gulf of Mexico. Canoeists and kayakers enjoy the new Citrus County Canoe and Kayak Trail, which extends eleven miles from the Crystal River to the Chassahowitzka River. The trail is clearly marked and conveys you through some of the county's most picturesque areas.
Diving and Snorkeling:
Crystal River and Homosassa Springs are known as the home of the largest herd of wintering manatees that enjoy the protection of the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge. You are welcome to enjoy an awesome experience by snorkeling with the manatees while observing applicable regulations.
Bird Watching:
From the unspoiled coastal salt marshes at Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge, to the St. Martin's State Buffer Preserve, to the Withlacoochee Bay Area of the Cross Florida Greenway, you may find herons, egrets, wood storks, oystercatchers, gulls, shore birds and pelicans and ospreys and Falcons just to name a few. Our coastal waters are teaming with loons, mergansers, ducks and white pelicans. In winter, eagles, harriers, and swallowtail kites are often found. Citrus County is fortunate enough to have been designated for reintroduction of the very rare and majestic whooping crane. Inland, you'll spot scrub jays, burring owls, all the woodpeckers and edge birds found in open habitat. Red shoulder and red tail hawks are common. The Citrus Tract of the Withlacoochee State Forest, a major section of this central ridge, is home to a large population of the endangered red cockaded woodpeckers. The Backman's sparrow can be found here also.
Camping:
Enjoy the natural environment. Choose from primitive camping, tent camping, recreational vehicle or renting a cozy cabin. During your stay, take advantage of the many recreational or educational opportunities offered in "Mother Nature Theme Park."
Cabins:
Citrus County offers a selection of lodge and cabin locations along the Tsala Apopka chain of lakes to scenic areas on many rivers leading to the Gulf of Mexico.
Recreational Vehicles:
There are many public and private facilities to accommodate your recreational vehicle.
Primitive Camping:
You can pitch your tent in a small clearing in the forest or on other public lands with designated private campsites along the established hiking trails. Combined with an extensive trail system, the 41,222-acre Citrus Tract of Withlacoochee State Forest offers terrific opportunities for back-to-nature backpacking.
Golf:
Sand. Water. Hazards. Trees. Roughs. Hills. Valleys. Ahhh ... a golfer's dream. Challenges are everywhere when you golf in Citrus County. With over 661 square miles of nature's wonderland, this unspoiled, uncrowded gem in the heart of Florida's Nature Coast offers many public courses that beckon to both serious and casual golfers. Be sure to pack your clubs when you move into your new home in Citrus County Florida.
Hiking, Biking and Horseback Riding:
There are many ways to immerse yourself into the "natural order of things".
The Withlacoochee State Trail is a 46 mile paved trail through Citrus, Hernando and ending in Pasco county. Open from sunrise to sunset every day of the year it is available for cyclist, runners, roller blades and anyone looking for an opportunity to enjoy an uninterrupted self propelled trip through central Florida's scenery. There are picnic shelters and benches along the way for a respite. The Withlacoochee Trail will soon be part of the Cross-Florida Greenways, connection undisturbed pathways throughout the state.
Hiking:
You will enjoy a wide range of terrain's, such as sandhill, scrub, hardwood, hammock, hydric swamp, and marsh. Educational paths, interpretive nature walks and hiking trails each feature their own unique combination of ecosystems, flora and fauna.
Biking:
Bicycle or roller-blade the popular Withlacoochee State Trail. Formerly a railroad right-of-way, this 47-mile trail is paved its entire length through Citrus County with bike/blade liveries along the way.
Horseback Riding:
Ride through the scenic Withlacoochee State Forest, taking the 14-mile one-day trail or a 24-mile two-day trail.
Historic:
Mysteries are uncovered at the 14 acre State Archaeological Site located in Crystal River, dating back to 500 BC History enthusiasts may choose to explore Old Homosassa and The Yule Sugar Mill ruins, the remains of a pre-Civil War sugar plantation. South of Inverness is Fort Cooper State Park, which was a post during the Seminal Indian War in the 1830's. Those interested in historic architecture must visit the city of Inverness with its restored courthouse, built in 1912.
Dining:
Whatever type of dining you crave can be found in restaurants along the Nature Coast, from 5 star seafood restaurants, to ethnic to sandwiches to good style home cooking.
Lodging:
The Nature Coast has an abundant of lodging facilities from bed & breakfast to 5 star hotels and everything in between.
Antiques:
Plan to spend a few days uncovering unique antiques and delectable collectibles. Citrus County has dozens of shops ready to take you on an excursion to the past. You'll find friendly shopkeepers, happy residents, a beautiful environment and thousands of unusual items to add to your collection. There are several certified appraisers in the county, eager to talk with you about their favorite subject. Citrus County has more than 30 antique shops, plus an entire indoor mall devoted to antiques and collectibles.
Citrus County Florida consists of rolling hills and naturally beautiful crystal clear springs, rivers and lakes which sets this section of Florida apart from other cities in the state. Environmentally and ecologically conscious, Citrus County has set aside over 98,000 acres out of its 661-square miles to preserve wildlife. Most noteworthy, Citrus County is the home to the largest herd of endangered manatees in the state. Citrus County is located in the heart of Florida's beautiful Nature Coast. This Gulf coast locale is situated 65 miles north of Tampa and St. Petersburg. Home to hundreds of crystal lakes, miles of unspoiled coastline, Citrus County is the idyllic place to retreat from the hectic pace of everyday life. Its sunny temperate climate and exceptional lifestyle will entice anyone to want to live and have thier beautiful new home built in this wonderful, rural setting. |
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The lovely winding Withlacoochee River borders Citrus County to the north and east. The Tsala Apopka chain of lakes (Seminole for "Good Fishing") borders Citrus County to the east. The western part of Citrus County is famous for its hundreds of islands, creeks, and the spring-fed waters at the Crystal and Homosassa Rivers which flow into the Gulf of Mexico.
Outdoor recreation in the area includes fresh and salt water fishing, boating, swimming, diving, snorkeling, camping, hunting, golf and tennis. The Homosassa River is known as one of "the top 12 fishing spots in North America" (Sports Afield Magazine). The river offers bass, bluegill, and catfish. Easy access to the Gulf of Mexico affords an opportunity to fish grouper, speckled trout, cobia, redfish, Spanish mackerel, and of course, tarpon.
The manatee has brought fame to the area. These popular mammals are attracted by the region's abundant warm rivers waters. Protected by careful regulations, the manatees have attracted thousands of nature enthusiasts to swim with these gentle creatures.
Natural attractions within Citrus County abound including: Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park, Rock Crusher Canyon Music & RV Park, The Ted Williams Museum and Hitters Hall of Fame. See our Citrus County Attractions Section for further listings and details about the attractions in the Nature Coast area.
Citrus County is a naturally beautiful environment that you will want to call home. The area provides excellent business opportunities as well. Manufacturing companies, small businesses and others are thriving in this strong business environment.
With everything that Citrus County has to offer, it is a superb location for every facet of life ... and your new home ... in Florida's Nature Coast.
Whether you own an inboard or outboard (or the traditional manpower), sailboat, jet ski, or pontoon, there's a water body ready to accommodate your needs. Citrus County maintains a number of public boat ramps throughout the area and if you are looking for a more permanent mooring, there are a number of privately owned marinas and boat storage yards.
If boating is your desire but owning a boat isn't, there are also a number of local businesses that can rent you a vessel for a few hours, a day, a week, or more.
Once you are on the water, you still face a multitude of decisions of what you want to do. Sightseeing, fishing, water sports, snorkeling, or maybe just relaxing the day away from phones, deadlines, and other signs of civilization that surround us.
Boating Guidelines
For those who wish to boat on Citrus County's beautiful waterways, we ask that you follow these simple guidelines to protect our natural resources:
Remember, Mother Nature created the waterways of Citrus County for everyone's use and enjoyment.
Canoeing
The Nature Coast Canoe/Kayak Trail begins on the Salt River off Crystal River (near the Marine Science Center) and follows markers on the Salt River South to the Homosassa River. Then the trail goes east on the Homosassa about a few hundred feet to Battle Creek. The Southern leg of the trail, the Michael Byer Memorial Trail, picks up the markers right at the Homosassa and Battle Creek, going south through Seven Cabbage Cut to the mouth of the Chassahowitzka.
The Nature Coast Canoe & Kayak Trail takes a paddler through some of the most pristine salt marshes in the Southeast. Year-round wildlife in the area includes osprey, eagles, a variety of wadin birds, manatees, dolphins, alligators, and raccoons.
It can be a difficult area to navigate so the trail markers assist one in orientation. Be prepared for the trip by carrying water, a compas, insect repellant, and sunblock. Be sure to keep a close eye on the weather and tides.
There is nothing quite like gliding quietly down a natural river or creek in a canoe. Nature unfolds before you as though you aren't even there and where the subtle click of a camera shutter echoes out as an out-of-place noise. If this is your chosen mode of water transportation or you want to experience it for the first time, then Citrus County waters are ready to welcome you.
For the experienced canoeist, the blackwater Withlacoochee River (a Florida Outstanding Waterway) offers an 83-mile designated canoe trail that begins in Pasco County and continues to the Citrus/Marion county line in Dunnellon at the US 41 bridge.
If 83-mile treks are more than you planned for, you can pick a smaller segment of the overall trail to canoe or try one of the rivers on the west coast. One of the best is the Chassahowitzka River. The Chassahowitzka River Campground is operated by the Citrus County Division of Parks and Recreation, and has canoes for rent. The scenic Chassahowitzka (another Florida Outstanding Waterway) has a number of side creeks and tributaries for the adventurous. If you navigate its length you will find a beautiful freshwater springs nestled at the heart of its headwaters.
