The Withlacoochee River Canoe Trail is officially designated as part of Florida’s Statewide System of Greenways and Trails. Hardwood forests with a border of saw palmetto and cabbage palm on the river. The river flows out of the Green Swamp in west central Florida. Further, downstream the hills disappear as you paddle through lush swampland with cypress, gum and maple adorned with air plants. The overhanging limbs form a lacy canopy. Much of the trail flows through the Withlacoochee State Forest, with scattered residential areas along the river. Wildlife is abundant along the river. Deer, otter, turkey and alligator are common. Wood stork, wood duck, white ibis and anhinga may also be seen along the trail. The takeout is at the bridge on US 41 before Lake Rousseau. Camping is available at Silver Lake Recreation Area. The Withlacoochee River meanders through 13 miles of forest.
Withlacoochee River fishing expect some sections of this river to be better then others, as water levels upstream of Rt. 200 are very low. Flowing water seems to be a real magnet for largemouth bass, panfish, and catfish lately. Aggressively fished topwater baits (Pop-R’s and buzzbaits) fished at dawn and dusk hours will continue to be productive means for bass. Bluegill, warmouth, and redear sunfish along with those channel catfish will take baits fished on the bottom.
Withlacoochee State Forest
Withlacoochee State Forest is currently the third largest state forest in Florida and is divided into several distinct tracts of land. Using sound ecosystem management, the Division of Forestry provides for multiple-use of the forest resources which includes timber management, wildlife management, ecological restoration, and outdoor recreation. The size and diversity of Withlacoochee State Forest provides visitors with a variety of natural communities, wildlife and recreation activities to enjoy. Withlacoochee State Forest was acquired by the federal government from private landowners between 1936 and 1939 under the provisions of the U.S. Land Resettlement Administration. The U.S. Forest Service managed the property until a lease-purchase agreement transferred the property to the Florida Board of Forestry in 1958.
Recreation and Camping
| Visit State Forest Fees and permits for Camping and Day Use fee information. |
All formal organized group activities, including picnicking, trail use or overnight camping, require a State Forest Use Permit. To obtain a State Forest Use Permit you can call the Recreation/Visitors Center at (352) 754-6896 and we will assist you.
Location
Withlacoochee State Forest's location provides convenient access for many visitors since it is within two hours driving time from Cape Canaveral, Orlando, and several other points of interest. The 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 the city of Tampa.
