Withlacoochee is a Native word meaning "crooked river," which accurately describes the river as it makes its 70-mile journey from the Green Swamp in northern Polk County to the Gulf of America at Yankeetown. Withlacoochee State Forest has several waterways that flow through different portions of the property. The Withlacoochee River, Little Withlacoochee River and Jumper Creek have all been designated as Outstanding Florida Waters. The most notable is the Withlacoochee River, which meanders through 13 miles of the forest.
Trees of many species create dense woodlands and canopy trails. Species found in the forest include slash pine, longleaf pine, pond cypress, bald cypress, oak, maple, southern magnolia, gum and hickory. Springtime forest visitors will be delighted with the colorful abundance of wildflowers. Flower varieties such as goldenrod, thistle and blazing star can be found along State Forest roadways.
Wildlife is abundant and there are a number of species that are listed as endangered, threatened or species of special concern. Bald eagle, fox squirrel and gopher tortoise may be seen, along with white-tailed deer, wild turkey, rabbit and gray squirrel.
Named one of the "10 Coolest Places You've Never Been in North America" by the World Wildlife Fund, Withlacoochee State Forest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Activities include miles of trails for hiking, bicycling, horseback riding and canoeing.
Seasonal hunting is available in most of the forest, and fishing is plentiful on Withlacoochee’s many lakes and waterways.
Several campgrounds are available and feature developed and primitive campsites. The forest also has group camps for organized youth group excursions.
Croom Motorcycle Area provides 2,600 acres of off-road facilities for motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).
Several day-use facilities are located in tin forest and provide areas for picnicking and wildlife viewing.
Contact us for:
In keeping with its mission to protect and manage Florida's forest resources, the Florida Forest Service has developed rules that apply to all State Forest visitors. Find out more about State Forest fees and rules.
Effective June 6, 2026, the River Junction Boat Ramp remains closed due to ongoing repairs and low water levels. The ramp will be reopened for public use after the repairs are complete and water levels rise. See a
map of the boat ramp closure
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Day use is from sunrise to sunset.
Visitor Center Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.–noon and 1 p.m.–4 p.m.
Withlacoochee State Forest
Visitor Center
15003 Broad Street
Brooksville, FL 34601-4201
(352) 797-4140
Email Withlacoochee State Forest
Passes are no longer available at the State Forest office. To purchase a pass or make a reservation, visit ReserveAmerica or call 1-877-879-3859.
Withlacoochee State Forest is located in west-central Florida with headquarters located on U.S. Highway 41 approximately seven miles north of the town of Brooksville and 50 miles north of Tampa.
Total Acreage: 164,073
Counties: Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Pasco, Sumter
Smart device mapping is possible and encouraged in the State Forests. Before visiting a forest, search for “PDF Maps” in the app store to find an app that works for you and download our State Forest map, which is georeferenced.
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The Florida National Scenic Trail passes through the forest.
Withlacoochee State Forest is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail.
Contact:
Teika Petty
Withlacoochee Forestry Center
Teika.Petty@FDACS.gov
