Purchased in the early 1990s, this property is part of a large greenway of public lands that protects the Chassahowitzka Swamp ecosystem and wildlife resources. The Chassahowitzka River's headwaters, several tributaries and springs are within this tract and are known locally for their great sportfishing and crabbing. The vast expanse of salt marsh, hardwood swamps, crystal-clear springs and river are a canoeist's paradise. The river has been designated an Outstanding Florida Water by the state of Florida. Camping, a boat launch, boat rental and a camp store are available at Chassahowitzka River Campground and Recreation Area, which is operated by Citrus County Parks and Recreation Department.
Park Details
Street Address
8600 Miss Maggie Drive (County Park)
7940 Burnt Bridge Road (SWFWMD)
Homosassa, FL 34448
United States
Size
5677 Acres
Hours of Operation
Daily from sunrise to sunset.
Site Features
Recreation Opportunities
Recreation Term
Bicycling
Recreation Description
- Approximately 2 miles of multiuse trails.
- Florida law requires bicyclists under 16 to wear helmets.
Recreation Term
Birding
Recreation Description
- (Bird Watching) Chassahowitzka River Trail is located on the western section of Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail.
- Contact Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) for more information.
Recreation Term
Boating
Recreation Description
- Single-lane boat ramp located at campground. Canoe, kayak and jon boat rentals.
- River is shallow — use shallow draft boats and keep track of tides.
- Watch for manatees.
Recreation Term
Canoeing/Paddling
Recreation Description
- Single-lane boat ramp located at campground. Canoe, kayak and jon boat rentals.
- River is shallow — use shallow draft boats and keep track of tides.
- Watch for manatees.
Recreation Term
Camping
Recreation Description
Chassahowitzka Campground
- 78 full-service campsites with various levels of amenities, including electricity, sewer, water, tables, grills and fire rings. Group campsite also available.
- 52 RV and 26 tent sites.
- Call campground office for reservations; fee for camping.
- Bathhouse with showers, laundry facilities, shuffleboard court and picnic pavilion available.
Recreation Term
Fishing
Recreation Description
- Saltwater fishing near gulf; freshwater fishing in springs.
- Contact FWC for license requirements.
Recreation Term
Hiking
Recreation Description
- Approximately 2 miles of multiuse trails.
- Prepare for wet hiking; some trails are excessively wet during certain times of year.
Recreation Term
Picnic Facilities
Recreation Description
- Limited picnic facilities available at boat dock.
Additional Information
Access and Parking
- Access obtained from US 19 by traveling west on Miss Maggie Drive (CR 480) to campground and boat launch facilities at end of road. Day-use fee.
- Access also available at end of Burnt Bridge Road, a dirt road that goes through the Withlacoochee State Forest to the property. Parking available at access point.
- ADA access and facilities available. Contact campground office for information.
Restrooms and Water
Restrooms, potable water and camp store available at campground.
Dogs
- Dogs allowed in county park only.
- Dogs must be on a leash no more than six feet in length at all times in campground.
- Proof of current vaccination required upon registration.
Location
Southwestern Citrus County, south of Homosassa Springs
For more Information
- Chassahowitzka River Campground and Recreation Area Office, (352) 382-2200 voice/TDD
- Land Resources, Southwest Florida Water Management District, 1-800-423-1476 (FL only) or (352) 796-7211, ext. 4470