Dense hardwood swamps, freshwater and saltwater marshes, and pine-covered sandhills shape the landscape of the Weekiwachee Wildlife Management Area. The Weekiwachee Wildlife Management Area covers more than 2,800 acres in Hernando County, where fishing is permitted year-round. This makes it possible to begin exploring nature with a striking contrast between different habitats. The river, forest and paved trails offer further perspectives.
River, Forest and Trails
The Withlacoochee River winds for 13 miles through the Withlacoochee State Forest, which offers miles of hiking trails. The river and trails appeal to different nature interests: follow the course of the river in one place, or focus on hiking trails in another. Cyclists can also consider the Withlacoochee State Trail. This paved rail-trail is 46 miles long, has numerous access points, and runs through Citrus, Hernando and Pasco counties. Its length, paved surface and multiple access points are useful details when planning a cycling trip.
Experiences on the Water
Visitors can collect scallops at the Nature Coast Aquatic Preserve. Seasonal conditions may apply, so check before your trip to see when this activity fits into your plans. Bayport Park and Linda Pedersen Park have designated boat launches for kayaks and canoes, parking, restrooms and picnic areas. Both parks therefore offer practical amenities for a day by the water.
Marina Rose Cruises offers a different kind of experience: meals, beer, wine, cocktails and other drinks are available from an onboard bar. Menus and drinks may change, so check the current offerings before your trip. At Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, at the headwaters of the Weeki Wachee River, visitors can enjoy daily underwater mermaid shows and a river cruise. The park is also home to Buccaneer Bay, Florida’s only spring-fed water park. Check the schedule and current operating conditions before you arrive.
Buildings and History
The Hernando Historical Museum Association comprises three museums: the May-Stringer House, the 1885 Train Depot and the Countryman One Room Schoolhouse. The May-Stringer House is a four-story Victorian-era home with seven gables and 14 rooms. The 1885 Train Depot has remained in the same location since it was built. These two descriptions highlight different features: the architecture of a home and the unchanged location of a depot.
The Chinsegut Hill Historic Site also has a clear historical date: it was built in 1845, and its mansion is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Richloam General Store represents a later chapter in local history. Sidney Brinson founded it on June 28, 1922; until January 31, 1936, it served the Richloam community as an express office, post office and general store. The dates and former functions help trace how its role in the community changed over time.
Citrus, Programs and Special Activities
Boyett’s Grove brings agriculture together with an engaging look at processing. In Hernando County, Boyett’s Grove grows a wide variety of commercially cultivated citrus fruits. Visitors can also watch a restored 1940s washing and packing machine process citrus fruit. The Nature Coast Botanical Gardens offer environmental programs; since their dates may change, check the current schedule in advance.
Motorsports enthusiasts can visit Lead Foot City in Brooksville. The 60-acre site offers, among other things, an 1/8-mile drag strip with a fully concrete racing surface and a modern timing system, burnouts, drift karts, car shows and live music. Since offerings may change, check specific dates for events. The Olympus Disc Golf Course offers a different sporting focus: it is a championship-level 18-hole course in a reclaimed limestone quarry. The options range from nature and water experiences to culture and citrus farming, as well as events and disc golf.
Discover more destinations: Spring Hill, Ridge Manor, Brooksville, Weeki Wachee, Timber Pines, Hernando Beach, Levy County, Alachua
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