forests

National Key Dear Refuge

Established in 1957 to protect and preserve in the national interest the Key deer and other wildlife resources, the 9,200-acre National Key Dear Refuge consists of salt marsh wetlands, mangrove forests, freshwater wetlands, pine rockland forests, and tropical hardwood hammocks. Twenty-three endangered and/or threatened animals and plants live in the refuge.

National Key Dear Refuge is surrounded by saltwater and easily accessible on Big Pine Key. Because of karst bedrock, freshwater is stored in the bedrock’s holes and crevices. This freshwater is necessary for Key Deer and other plant and animal species to thrive.

Visiting National Key Dear Refuge on Big Pine Key:

Drive the Speed Limit. Key Deer and other wildlife share the roads with you.

Be sure to stop at the Visitor Center to learn about how to avoid poisonwood trees and stay safe on a trail where you may encounter snakes and alligators.

Saunter along the trails at The Blue Hole. https://www.imagineourflorida.org/blue-hole/

Discover endangered Bartram’s scrub hairstreak butterflies, endangered Lower Keys marsh rabbits, and the endangered Key Deer. https://www.imagineourflorida.org/key-deer/

There are 40 species of reptiles, including alligators and crocodiles, waiting to be discovered. Look for over 250 migratory and resident bird species, including the rarely seen Mangrove Cuckoo. Snakes, including the threatened Eastern Indigo call the refuge home.

Leashed dogs are welcome.

Learn more here:
https://www.fws.gov/refuge/National_Key_Deer_Refuge/

Photo credit: Dan Kon, Nancy Kon, Christian Kon

Withlacoochee State Forest has been named one of the “10 Coolest Places You’ve Never Been in North America” by the World Wildlife Fund. Managed by the Florida Forest Service, the Withlacoochee State Forest is located on U.S. Highway 41 approximately seven miles north of the town of Brooksville and 50 miles north of Tampa and is a nature lovers paradise.

Hike, bike, or horseback ride on miles of trails, or simply drive through the forest. Paddle the winding Withlacoochee River, Little Withlacoochee River, and Jumper Creek, all of which have been recognized as Outstanding Florida Waters.

Notice the variety of trees at Withlacoochee State Forest. Discover southern magnolias, oaks, maples, gums, slash pine, longleaf pine, pond cypress, bald cypress, and hickory. Blooming blazing stars, goldenrod, thistle, and more will greet you along the way.

Withlacoochee State Forest is teeming with wildlife. The forest is part of The Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail and is designated a Florida Scenic Trail. Listen and look for fox squirrels, white-tailed deer, gopher tortoises, rabbits, gray squirrels, wild turkeys, sandhill cranes, hawks, bald eagles, and owls.

Croom Motorcycle Area provides 2,600 acres of off-road facilities for motorcycle and ATV enthusiasts.

For those who want to take their time and explore all of Withlacoochee State Forest campgrounds are available. There are several primitive campgrounds for those who want a more rustic experience. The Tillis Hill Day Use Area is a perfect place for larger gatherings. A pavilion, commercial-sized grill/smoker, and dining hall are available for cooking and feeding your guests. There are 3 pavilions and numerous picnic tables waiting for you to enjoy your picnic at McKethan Lake.

Leashed pets are allowed in some areas. Be sure to stop at the Withlacoochee State Forest Visitor Center for maps, current conditions, and more.

For more information: https://www.fdacs.gov/…/State-Fo…/Withlacoochee-State-Forest

Photo Credit: Aymee Laurain