Description

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Geography:

The Withlacoochee River, Little Withlacoochee River, and Jumper Creek have all been designated as Outstanding Florida Waters, and each meanders through this forest which spans across 5 counties and exceeds 165,000 acres. Withlacoochee is a Native American word meaning "crooked river". This accurately describes the Withlacoochee River as it makes its 70-mile journey from the Green Swamp, in northern Polk County, to the Gulf of Mexico at Yankeetown. Complementing the natural water features are the open pine sand hills, dense woodlands, and canopied roads and trails. Tree species found on the forest include slash pine, longleaf pine, pond and bald cypress, maple, southern magnolia, hickory, and various species of oak. There is also an abundance of colorful wildflowers during the Autumn, including goldenrod, thistle, and blazing star. These natural features create excellent habitat for bald eagles, fox squirrels, gopher tortoise, white-tail deer, and turkeys, to name a few. For additional information about Withlacoochee State Forest, please Click Here.

Facilities:

Special Notices: *Maximum capacity of pavilion is 60 people. Current setup provides seating for 36 people. For larger group events up to 100 people and overflowing into the overall day use area, Special Event Fees will apply and group may be required to provide portable toilets arranged for and paid by the group. General Information: 1.Facility open daily year-round from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. 2.No Electric hookups available at pavilion. 3.Pavilion must be vacated by 7:30 p.m. 4.Entrance fee applies for all visitors. 5.No Consumption or Possession of Alcohol Permitted. 6.Leashed pets are allowed in this facility. 7.Everything taken in must be taken out; trash must be removed from trash receptacles at pavilions and placed in nearby Trash House. 8.Facility shall be left neat, clean and ready for next activity/user. 9.Safety around the lake shall be observed at all times. 10.Warning alligators, snakes and other wildlife are part of the Natural Habitat. 11.Do not feed or molest wildlife, including alligators, per Florida Statute 379.412 and Florida Administrative Code 68A-25.001. 12.All users shall comply with rules outlined in the Florida Administrative Code Chapter 5I-4.

Reservations can be made for today and can be made up to 11 Month(s) in advance.

Season Schedule

• General Rules