Local Information and Links

Situated about an hour north of the Tampa and St. Petersburg area is the quiet town of Homosassa. The area is unequaled in its natural beauty, and boasts a long and colorful history. Because of the natural beauty, the area surrounding Citrus county has been called the "Nature Coast".

Best know for its commercial fishing, the friendliness of this old fishing village still survives even though Homosassa is becoming a favorite Florida tourist area. Its river has the reputation of being one of the prettiest in the state; the hardwoods stretch downward onto the river banks and the crystal clear waters flow to the Gulf of Mexico.

Located on the banks of the Homosassa River is Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins. Spread over 5,100 acres, this sugar plantation dates back to about 1851. It was a prime producer of sugar products for the Southern troops during the Civil War, until a Union naval company captured supplies and ammunition on the grounds of the plantation and torched the mill.

The Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park was developed in 1960 covering 150 acres. A 157 ton underwater observatory was installed into the 45' deep spring in 1964. Over 34 different types of fish, both fresh water and salt water, can be observed here. The spring is the winter home to the Manatee, which are attracted here  because of the constant water temperature of 72 degrees.

Local Link to Homosassa information:Homosassa Florida