Immersive Nature Experiences

The first stop on your outdoor adventure is the Bass Conservation Center, by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. This center is open Monday through Friday, and provides insight into the local fisheries and wildlife management practices of the region. This is one of the biggest freshwater fish hatcheries in the state, and supplies largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, striped bass, and sunshine bass to Florida waters. 

Location: 3583 County Road 788, Webster, FL 33597

Phone Number: (352) 732-1225

The next stop is the Withlacoochee State Forest, which is a great way to see the wonders of Florida up close. The Richloam Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is an excellent option for hiking, regardless of your skill level. Both beginner and experienced hikers alike, can find trails that meet their needs.

This WMA spread across 58,000 acres in four different counties (Hernando, Pasco, Sumter, and Lake). Keep an eye out for wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, and gopher tortoises, along with dozens of herons and raptors that call Florida home.

Location: Off County Road 471, Webster, FL 33597

Phone Number: (352) 732-1225

See if there is a horse show you can attend at the Sumter Equestrian Center, one of the leading stables in the region since 2003. From dressage to jumping, there are various ways to see these magnificent animals and their riders in action.

Location: 6742 C 476 W, Bushnell, FL 33513

Phone Number: (352) 303-4325

You can also book an airboat ride on Lake Panasoffkee. This company offers one-hour airboat rides and the opportunity to take a photo with a live alligator. Your captains are available to answer any questions you have and teach you about this beautiful part of Florida. You can also sign up for the Alligator Tour, which takes you on a water safari to find these reptiles.

Location: 4110 NW 42nd Place, Lake Panasoffkee, FL  33538

Phone Number: (352) 643-0708

If you are interested in learning about animals beyond Florida’s borders, visit the Florida International Teaching Zoo. There are zoo tours and animal encounters where kids and adults alike, can ask questions about the various animals who live there. Conservation and education are two key tenets of this zoo. The keepers are happy to talk about the status of various animals in the wild, and the steps humans are taking to protect them.

Location: 4258 SW 52nd Ter, Bushnell, Florida 33513

Phone Number: (352) 867-7788
 

This is another fantastic option if you want to explore the canals of Lake Panasoffkee. Tom & Jerry’s Airboat Rides is easy to get to, and the fun starts immediately. You will love speeding across the lake and taking in the stunning Florida views. Your guides will also teach you about alligator behavior, and provide birdwatching tips to get the most out of your journey. 

Location: 68 N. Main Terrace, Lake Panasoffkee, FL 33538

Phone Number: (321) 689-8918

End your day at Whispering Oaks Winery, with a delicious glass of blueberry wine and some live entertainment. This is one of the most picturesque outdoor venues in Sumter County with ample space to relax. The winery offers some U-Pick blueberry options during the peak season from April to June, so you might be able to harvest your own berries to bring home.  

Location: 10934 N. County Rd 475, Oxford, FL, 34484

Phone Number: (352) 748-0449

Airboat rides are essential outdoor activities in Sumter County, and Wild Bill’s Airboat Tours is a great place to start. Enjoy a tour around the Withlacoochee River, and learn about the local wildlife along the way. This tour company can accommodate small groups and large tours alike.

Location: 12430 E. Gulf To Lake Hwy, Inverness, FL 34450

Phone Number: (352) 726-6060