WITHLACOOCHEE STATE FOREST
With 157, 479 acres in Ctrus, Pasco, Hernando, and Sumter counties the Withlacoochee State Forest is currently the third largest state forest in Florida. It is divided into several distinct tracts and provides multi-use of its resources including timber management, wildlife management, ecological restoration and outdoor recreation.
The Withlacoochee River, Little Withlacoochee River and Jumper Creek, all designated Outstanding Florida Waters, run through miles of the forest. Wildlife is abundant and recreational opportunities include trails for hiking, bicycling, horseback riding and canoeing. Seasonal hunting is permitted and fishing is plentiful with largemouth bass and panfish.
Croom Motorcycle Area provides 2600 acres of off-road trails for motorcycles and ATVs. Annual permits are required for each and payment can be made at the entrance gate. This is currently the only state property dedicated to motorcycle and ATV riding and traverses hardwood hammocks, tight scrub and mining pits.
Headquarters for the forest are located on U.S. Highway 41 approximately seven miles north of Brooksville. Visitor Center hours are Monday - Friday, except holidays: 8:00 am - noon & 1:30 - 4:30 pm
Directions:
From Brooksville: East on US 98/SR 50 approximately 11 miles. Entrace on left just before I-75 overpass.
From I-75 (40 miles north of Tampa)
Take Exit 61 (new Exit 301) to US 98/SR50. Turn west. Entrance on right. Look for Holiday Inn as a landmark.
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