Black Diamond Ranch - Discover Citrus County

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, rolling hills and the largest population of manatees and other wildlife, 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 become a member of this bountiful community.

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.The Homosassa River is known as one of "the top 12 fishing spots in North America" (Sports Afield Magazine).

Outdoor recreation in the area includes fresh and salt water fishing, boating, swimming, diving, snorkeling, camping, hunting, golf and tennis.

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.

Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park, located on the Homosassa River is a showcase for native Florida wildlife and endangered species. The park is also a rehabilitation center and refuge for the endangered West Indian Manatee. Other wildlife, seen in their natural habitat, includes alligators, crocodiles, snakes, deer, bears, bobcats, otters and cougars. Bird wildlife includes pink flamingos, eagles, herons, egrets and others.

Other Citrus County attractions include:

Rock Crusher Canyon Music & RV Park, carved out of limestone hills and craggy cliffs, offers the ideal setting for enjoying both music and nature. This natural wonder, situated in Citrus County, is the setting for concerts, weekend entertainment, and music festivals throughout the year. State-of-the-art RV park completes the venue offering entertainment, activities and natural beauty.

World Famous NaberKids Dolls factory and museum
Visit them at www.naberkids.com.

The Ted Williams Museum and Hitters Hall of Fame, located in Lecanto, opened in 1994. This museum is dedicated to the baseball career of Ted Williams, considered by many people to be the greatest hitter of all time.

In addition, other popular Florida attractions such as Disney World, MGM, Sea World, Busch Gardens and Universal Studios are just under a two hour drive from Citrus County.

Located within Citrus County, the Withlacoochee State Forest and Fort Cooper State Park (south of Inverness), are the sire of the second Seminole War. If you like cycling, Citrus County offers "Rails to Trails," a 47 mile former railroad right of way. The trail is paved from the US 41 overpass, north of Inverness, to Fort Cooper Road to the south.

One of the most popular restaurants in Florida's Nature Coast is KC Crump Restaurant, a 100 year old fishing lodge which was converted into a restaurant in 1986. It is a one-of-a-kind place to dine on the Homosassa River. Your dining experience in the lodge or outside at Ramshackle Cafe which is graced with majestic live oak hammocks and incredible sunsets on the river.

The Riverhaven Marina, adjacent to KC Crump Restaurant, sells and rents boats for river recreation. The marina also offers hi-dry storage for the security and protection of your boat. If you live for golf, boating or fishing, this full-service marina on the Homosassa River offers the ideal solution for living on both the golf course and the water.

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... in Florida's Nature Coast.