Withlacoochee River Park

ABOUT THIS PLACE

The park sits at 12449 Withlacoochee Boulevard east of Dade City, where high sandhill drops away into low riverine swamp within a few hundred yards. That range of ground in a small park is what makes the walking interesting: dry oak and pine on the ridges, then cypress and black water down by the river. About a mile and a half of hiking trail runs through it, along with cycling, birding, picnic grounds, camping and fishing. A canoe launch and dock give access to the Withlacoochee, which runs north from the Green Swamp rather than south like most Florida rivers. An observation tower rises above the canopy and gives the only wide view for miles. A 30-acre recreation field takes up part of the site. The Green Swamp beyond the park is one of the darkest places left in central Florida after nightfall, and the park is used for watching the night sky on that account