Attractions and Places To See in Citrus County - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Citrus County include a diverse array of natural features and historical sites. This region in Florida is characterized by its crystal-clear springs, extensive wildlife habitats, and preserved wilderness areas. Visitors can explore various ecosystems, from coastal marshes to state forests, alongside significant Native American archaeological sites and historic towns. The area offers opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural exploration.
Best attractions and places to see in Citrus County
- The most popular attractions is Three Sisters Springs, a natural monument known for its crystal-clear waters. It serves as a crucial winter refuge for manatees, offering opportunities for observation.
- Another must-see spot is Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, a natural monument and rehabilitation center for injured wildlife. The park features native Florida animals, including manatees viewable from an underwater observatory, alligators, and panthers.
- Visitors also love Withlacoochee River Bridge, a bridge that spans the Withlacoochee River. It provides views of the 141-mile-long river and is part of a scenic route.
- Citrus County is known for its natural springs, wildlife viewing opportunities, and extensive trail systems. The region offers a variety of attractions, from historical landmarks to preserved wilderness areas, suitable for diverse interests.
- The attractions in Citrus County are appreciated by the komoot community, with 9 upvotes and 7 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
Three Sisters Springs
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Withlacoochee River Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
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Floral City, Florida
Highlight • Settlement
For cyclists it makes a great stop along the Withlacoochee State Trail. In town you'll find Trailside Bike, and though they specialize in recumbent bikes, you can still find plenty of supplies and accessories for anything pedal powered.
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Withlacooche Bay Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Savannas Wild Loop Trail, Crystal River Preserve State Park
Highlight • Trail
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Withlacoochee State Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Hog Ponds Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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McGregor Smith Scout Reservation Picnic Area
Highlight (Segment) • Rest Area
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Crystal River Preserve State Park
Highlight • Natural
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Tips from the Community
A peaceful place to hike or ride, with flat trails through pine woods, salt marsh, and tidal creeks. This segment is part of the smaller loop, which tends to be less busy—perfect for enjoying the quiet, scenic stretch full of wildlife. Bring water, bug spray, and take your time soaking it all in. Just stay alert while crossing the area, as it’s also alligator habitat.
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There is significantly less going on in summer than in winter. However, there are also significantly more manatees in the park in winter
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Nice bridge that takes you across the Withlacoochee River. You get great views of the water, so this is a nice place for a quick stop to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
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This well-maintained trail takes you through the Flying Eagle Preserve and passes by the former McGregor Smith Scout Reservation, once the main meeting place for the Boy Scouts in the area. The site still features a building and picnic area, making it a great spot for a picnic or a rest break.
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This uniquely Florida park has a wide range of native species such as alligators, turtles, and manatees. But you'll also find some not so native species, namely Lu the hippopotamus. If you have the time this is a good place to have a break and explore a bit of natural Florida.
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This trail it fairly typical for Florida, flat with intermittent shade and sun, and of course...bugs. So be sure to use bug spray before your ride. All those bugs mean a plethora of other wildlife is around too so you might get lucky and spot deer, wild turkey, turtles, and more bird species than you can count. You'll also want to have your maps downloaded since this trail crosses/intersects with multiple other trails that could lead you astray.
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Crystal River Preserve State Park protects 27,500 acres of Florida as it was centuries ago. The park offers visitors the chance to bike, hike, kayak, or paddleboard through a mostly untouched wilderness that spans a vast array of different ecosystems.
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From Felburn Park to the Gulf of Mexico, the Withlacooche Bay Trail stretches 5 miles and provides continuous views of the bay and canal. The trail is completely paved and is popular among runners, walkers, and cyclists. There are also some side trails (unpaved) that you can explore along the way.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features and wildlife can I explore in Citrus County?
Citrus County is rich in natural beauty, particularly its crystal-clear springs and diverse wildlife. You can visit Three Sisters Springs, a crucial winter refuge for manatees, or explore Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, a rehabilitation center featuring native Florida animals like manatees, alligators, and panthers. The region also boasts the vast Crystal River Preserve State Park, offering untouched wilderness with diverse ecosystems for birdwatching and wildlife observation.
Are there historical or cultural sites to visit in Citrus County?
Yes, Citrus County offers several significant historical and cultural sites. The Crystal River Archaeological State Park is a National Historic Landmark with ancient Native American mounds. You can also visit the Old Courthouse Heritage Museum in Inverness, housed in a historic 1912 building, or the Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park in Homosassa, which preserves remnants of a 19th-century sugar plantation. The Floral City Historic District offers a glimpse into 'Old Florida' with its preserved buildings.
What outdoor activities are popular in Citrus County?
Citrus County is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. Popular activities include kayaking and paddleboarding on the Crystal River and Homosassa River, fishing, and boating. During scalloping season, you can even catch your own dinner. For land-based activities, the region offers extensive trail systems for hiking and biking.
Can I see manatees in Citrus County, and what's the best way to do it?
Citrus County is one of the best places to see manatees, especially during the colder months. Three Sisters Springs and Kings Bay in Crystal River are crucial winter refuges. You can observe them from boardwalks, or join guided tours for swimming, snorkeling, or kayaking alongside these gentle giants. Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park also offers an underwater observatory for manatee viewing.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Citrus County?
Absolutely! Many attractions in Citrus County are suitable for families. Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is a favorite, offering a chance to see various native animals. The natural springs like Three Sisters Springs and Hunter Springs Park are great for swimming and picnicking. Additionally, many of the paved trails, such as the Withlacoochee State Trail, are perfect for family bike rides.
What kind of trails are available for hiking and biking?
Citrus County boasts an impressive network of trails. The Withlacoochee State Trail is a 46-mile paved rail-trail ideal for biking, hiking, and horseback riding through scenic landscapes. For continuous bay views, try the 5-mile paved Withlacoochee Bay Trail. If you're looking for more rugged terrain, Crystal River Preserve State Park offers dirt trails for hiking and mountain biking. For more options, explore the easy hikes or cycling routes in the area.
When is the best time to visit Citrus County, especially for manatee viewing?
The best time to visit Citrus County for manatee viewing is during the colder winter months, typically from November 15th to March 31st. During this period, manatees seek refuge in the warm spring waters, making them easier to spot. While summer offers fewer crowds at some attractions, winter provides the prime opportunity to see large numbers of manatees.
Are there any unique or 'hidden gem' attractions in the area?
Beyond the well-known spots, Citrus County has some unique finds. The Olde Mille House Gallery and Printing Museum offers a fascinating look at printing history with vintage equipment. For natural beauty, explore the Chassahowitzka River for serene kayaking, or seek out secluded caves like Peace Cave and Dames Cave within the Withlacoochee State Forest.
Where can I go kayaking or paddleboarding in Citrus County?
Citrus County's numerous waterways are perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. The Crystal River and Homosassa River are popular choices, offering scenic views and opportunities to observe wildlife, including manatees. Kings Bay and Hunter Springs Park also provide accessible launch points and beautiful spring-fed waters for these activities.
What kind of cycling experiences can I find in Citrus County?
Cyclists will find a variety of experiences in Citrus County. The Withlacoochee State Trail is a long, paved path suitable for leisurely rides, while the Withlacoochee Bay Trail offers continuous bay views. For those seeking more challenging rides, there are mountain biking trails in areas like Crystal River Preserve State Park. You can find more detailed cycling routes in the Cycling in Citrus County guide.
Are there any accessible attractions for visitors with mobility needs?
Yes, several attractions in Citrus County strive for accessibility. Hunter Springs Park is known for its accessible features, making it easy to enjoy the spring. The Withlacoochee Bay Trail is completely paved and wheelchair accessible, offering continuous views. Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park also provides accessible pathways and an underwater observatory for manatee viewing.
What are some notable viewpoints in Citrus County?
For scenic views, the Withlacoochee River Bridge offers great perspectives of the 141-mile-long river. The Withlacoochee Bay Trail provides continuous views of the bay and canal. Additionally, the boardwalks at Three Sisters Springs allow for excellent observation of the springs and manatees.
Most popular routes in Citrus County
Most popular attractions in Citrus County
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