Discover Citrus
56 carefully curated photography spots with GPS coordinates, shooting tips, and local insights
Three Sisters Springs Center
Clear, spring-fed pools and a historic boardwalk attract West Indian manatees in winter and crystalline reflections year-round. Photograph turquoise water, submerged sand ripples, close-up manatee portraits from the viewing platforms, and sunlit mangroves. Best visited at sunrise or late afternoon for soft light and calmer water; winter (Nov–Mar) brings large manatee aggregations. Boardwalk is well maintained and mostly wheelchair accessible; seasonal restrictions, entry fees, limited parking, &
Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge & Visitor Center
Quiet springs, clear turquoise water and wintering West Indian manatees around Kings Bay make this refuge a top wildlife and waterscape spot. Photograph manatees from boardwalks and viewing platforms, kayaking tours for close encounters, and marsh birds at golden hour. Visit Nov–Mar for highest manatee density (mornings best), summer for migratory birds and reflections. Visitor Center offers info; parking is limited—arrive early. Respect refuge rules: no touching manatees, use authorized guides/
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
Small state park centered on a spring-fed river and a submerged observatory—prime for photographing manatees, turtles, wading birds, and lush riverside vegetation. Best visits: winter months for manatees, early morning or late afternoon for soft light and active wildlife. Boardwalks and viewing platforms give stable composition points; park has paid entry and on-site parking. Weekdays are quieter. Respect wildlife and keep distance; lenses 200–600mm work well.
Kings Bay Park
Small waterfront park on Kings Bay offering boardwalk views, shallow springs and frequent manatees, shorebirds and boats. Ideal for sunrise and golden-hour reflections, close-up wildlife in cooler months (Nov–Mar), and intimate waterscape compositions. Small free parking nearby; boardwalk is wheelchair-accessible. Respect manatee protection rules (no touching/feeding) and expect more crowds midday and on weekends.
Three Sisters Springs
Turquoise spring run with a raised boardwalk and shallow clear water—prime for close manatee portraits, underwater textures, and panoramic waterscapes. Best visited Nov–Mar for manatee sightings; sunrise and golden hour give warm side lighting on the boardwalk and glassy reflections. Accessible boardwalk and visitor parking are limited—expect crowds on weekends; refuge rules require distance from wildlife and no swimming near manatees. Bring polarizer and telephoto for respectful wildlife shots.
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park West Entrance
Small state-park entrance giving access to clear spring run, submerged viewing windows and boardwalks where manatees, turtles, wading birds and lush hammock vegetation concentrate. Best at sunrise or late afternoon for warm side-light and reflections; winter mornings bring many manatees. Park is wheelchair-accessible in parts, has paid entry and parking; arrive early on weekends to avoid crowds.
Crystal River NWR Resident Volunteer Campgrounds
Tidal estuary, mangrove shorelines and spring-fed channels near Crystal River NWR offer close-up manatee encounters (winter), wading birds, and reflective waterscapes. Visit at sunrise or late afternoon for low light and color; winter months draw manatees. Check refuge rules/seasonal closures, parking at nearby lots; some areas require walking or boat access.
Snorkeling With Manatees
Underwater and surface shots of approachable West Indian manatees in clear spring-fed waters at Homosassa Springs. Shoot intimate behavior, soft underwater light, and scenic river shoreline with cypress and mangroves. Best at cooler months (Nov–Apr) when manatees concentrate; mornings have calmer water and fewer crowds. Entry via guided snorkel tours; bring eco-friendly sunscreen, waterproof housing, and park parking is limited—arrive early. Respect wildlife rules and keep distance when not in a
Potts preserve
Potts Preserve is a coastal hammock and tidal-creek preserve with boardwalks, mangroves and open marshes—great for birdlife, coastal landscapes and sunset reflections. Easily reached by car with small parking area; free entry during daylight. Best at sunrise/golden hour or low tide for exposed flats; bring bug spray and waterproof shoes.
Sun Retreats Crystal River
Waterfront resort base for shooting Crystal River’s clear springs, mangrove-lined canals, dock reflections and seasonal manatee encounters. Best in winter months (Nov–Mar) for manatees; sunrise and golden hour deliver soft side-light on the water and pastel skies. Weekday mornings are quieter; book manatee tours/permits in advance. On-site parking and docks provide easy access; respect local wildlife rules and keep distance from manatees. Good for shore, boat and close-up wildlife frames.
Salt Marsh Trails - Crystal River Wildlife Refuge Complex Trailhead
Low, winding salt-marsh trails and boardwalks at the Crystal River Wildlife Refuge reveal networks of mangroves, tidal channels, shorebirds and reflective water patterns — ideal for intimate nature and coastal landscape shots. Best at golden hour or high tide for mirror reflections; low tide exposes mudflats and feeding shorebirds. Trailhead parking is roadside/lot at 6112 S Mason Creek Rd; public access with no fee but bring bug spray and sun protection. Weekday mornings are quieter; watch for,
Potts Preserve
Small lakeside preserve with a short boardwalk, marshy shoreline, bald cypress and oak stands, and good birdlife — ideal for intimate waterscape and wildlife shots. Visit at sunrise or sunset for warm light and glassy reflections; weekday mornings bring the fewest people and best bird activity. Site is roadside with a small parking area, easy short walks, no formal entry fee but expect uneven boardwalks and mosquitoes—bring bug spray and a tripod for low light.
Bubbles the Manatee
Photograph Bubbles, a habituated West Indian manatee often seen in the clear springs of Homosassa. Capture close-up facial expressions, gentle surfacing breaths and interactions with caretakers. Best visited in winter (Nov–Mar) when manatees gather; mornings and late afternoons give softer light and fewer visitors. Site is accessible via Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park with parking and entrance fee; boardwalks and viewing platforms provide stable vantage points. Observe park rules—no-touch
Old Homosassa Heritage Park and Working Waterfront
Small historic park and active waterfront on the Homosassa River offering classic Florida waterfront scenes: weathered shacks, docks, workboats, mangrove-lined river bends and frequent wildlife (manatees, birds). Best at golden hour for warm reflections and silhouettes; sunset produces dramatic skies over the river. Site is flat with nearby parking on S Boulevard Drive, generally free and open to the public; weekdays and early mornings are least crowded. Accessible walking paths make composition
Withlacoochee State Trail
A 46-mile paved rail-trail through pine flatwoods, live oaks, wetlands and river crossings—ideal for wide landscape compositions, intimate nature scenes and waterscape reflections on the Withlacoochee River. Visit at golden hour or early morning for soft light, mist and wildlife; winter months offer clearer skies. Free access with multiple trailhead parking lots (Inverness and others). Mostly flat, bike- and wheelchair-friendly; expect mosquitoes in warm months and occasional crowds on weekends.
Withlacoochee State Forest - Johnson Pond Recreational Trailhead
Johnson Pond Recreational Trailhead in Withlacoochee State Forest offers serene pine flatwoods, shady hardwood hammocks, boardwalks and a small pond—ideal for intimate nature, macro and landscape shots. Access is easy from the roadside lot (free parking). Best at golden hour or after rain for reflections and saturated greens. Trails are mostly flat and stroller/hiking-friendly; no entry fee. Weekday mornings minimize hikers and anglers.
Churchhouse Hammock Trailhead Crystal River Preserve State Park
Coastal hammock, salt marshes and mangrove-lined waterways offer layered foregrounds, reflective tidal flats and abundant shorebirds. Trails and boardwalks provide easy access to composition-rich scenes at golden hour; winter brings more migratory birds. Trailhead has a small parking area and flat, easy trails—check park hours and pack insect repellent. Best photographed at sunrise or late afternoon for warm sidelighting and long shadows.
Bluebird Springs Park
Small coastal spring and estuary with clear water, mangroves, boardwalks and abundant wildlife (wading birds, fish; manatees sometimes in season). Photograph reflections, roots and sunlit water textures; provide wide landscapes and intimate wildlife shots. Best at golden hour or mid-morning for clarity. Small parking area on-site; mostly easy access via short trails and boardwalks. Bring insect repellent, waterproof footwear for shoreline shots and check local rules for drones and wildlife-dist-
Eugene Martin Park
Small riverside park on the clear, spring-fed Rainbow River with boardwalks, cypress stands, calm reflections and easy water access—good for intimate waterscape, landscape and wildlife shots. Best light is early morning and late afternoon for warm side-light and reflections; midges and mosquitoes can appear at dusk. Parking at the lot off W Gene Martin Ln; short walks from parking to viewpoints and launch areas. No special entry requirements; check local hours. Weekdays are quieter.
Hunter Springs Park
Small coastal spring and park with crystal-clear water, shaded boardwalks, palms and a gazebo — strong for reflections, close-ups of manatees (seasonal), swimmers and intimate landscape compositions. Best at sunrise/sunset for warm light and calm water; winter mornings (Nov–Mar) for manatee activity. Park is compact with limited parking near NE 1st Ave; generally free public access but spaces fill early on weekends. Easy walking access and wheelchair-friendly boardwalks; obey wildlife distance—m
Hog Pond Trail Withlacoochee State Forest
Hog Pond Trail winds through Withlacoochee State Forest’s pine flatwoods, cypress ponds and wetland edges — great for reflective water shots, birdlife, moss-draped trees and intimate landscape compositions. Best at sunrise and early morning (golden hour) for soft light and active birds; dry season (winter–spring) reduces mosquitoes and standing water. Small signed trailhead parking at 4990 S Suncoast Blvd; no gate fee but bring bug spray, waterproof shoes, and insect protection. Boardwalks and d
Potts Preserve Campground
Potts Preserve Campground sits on the Withlacoochee River with shaded campsites, cypress-lined riverbanks and low-slung oak hammocks — ideal for intimate nature, waterscape and sunrise photography. Best at golden hour and blue hour for warm river reflections; midweek mornings are quiet. Access via N Hooty Point; small parking and primitive facilities—bring mosquito repellent and water. No special permits for day photography; be mindful of campers and wildlife.
Monkey Island
Small river island in Homosassa famous for a troop of free-roaming rhesus macaques — great for close wildlife portraits and riverscape compositions. Best reached by river cruise or boat; photographers usually shoot from the riverbank or boat (landing restricted). Visit during golden hours for warm side-lighting and calmer water; weekdays and winter mornings have fewer tourists and cooler temperatures. Bring insect repellent; respect park rules (do not feed or approach animals). Limited parking/|
Fort Cooper State Park
Small state park on the Withlacoochee River with a reconstructed 19th‑century fort, live oaks draped in Spanish moss, open prairie, boardwalks and river views. Ideal for intimate landscape, historical and waterscape shots. Best at sunrise or golden hour for warm light and reflections; winters offer clearer skies. Park open daylight hours; small per‑vehicle fee and paved parking; short, easy trails and boardwalks make most viewpoints accessible. Weekdays are quieter.
Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park
Brick chimneys and low masonry walls of the 19th‑century Yulee Sugar Mill sit among live oaks, Spanish moss and marshy backdrops — great for texture, decay and historical portraiture. Best light is during golden hours and overcast days for moody detail. Small state park with limited facilities and parking off County Road 490; modest entry fee may apply. Trails and boardwalks are short and mostly flat but bring bug spray. Respect the site's plantation history when shooting.
Homosassa Area Recreation Park
Small waterfront park on the Homosassa River offering river vistas, mangrove-lined shore, boat ramps and frequent waterfowl — ideal for tranquil waterscapes, reflections and sunset skies. Easy roadside access with parking; no special entry fees. Best at golden hour for warm light and calm water; weekdays and early mornings reduce crowds and boat traffic. Expect coastal humidity and mosquitoes in summer; bring insect repellent. Close to Homosassa Springs wildlife areas for manatee/animal portrait
Withlacoochee-Dunnellon trail connector
A paved connector trail linking Withlacoochee State Trail to Dunnellon riverside paths — shoot shaded oak hammocks, pine flatwoods, boardwalks and river vistas with reflections and abundant birdlife. Best at golden hour or early morning for soft light, fewer people and active wildlife; winters are drier and less buggy. Trail is wheelchair- and bike-friendly with free parking at 11520 N Florida Ave; no entry fee. Expect easy walking, close access to Dunnellon’s historic riverfront if extending a撮
Bike trail start
Trailhead in Dunnellon where a paved rail-trail meets oak-canopy, river access and parking — prime for shooting leading lines, cyclist motion, river reflections and native trees. Best at sunrise or golden hour for warm light and mist; weekdays are quieter. Free parking, accessible paths, no entry fee. Spring and fall offer cooler temperatures and clearer skies; bring insect repellent in summer.
Eden Park
Small lakefront park offering calm water reflections, shoreline compositions and local birdlife — great for sunrise/sunset color and long exposures. Easy roadside access and informal parking; no formal entry fee typical of municipal parks. Visit early mornings for mist and birds, evenings for dramatic skies; bring insect repellent in warm months. Paths and picnic areas make gear changes easy; check weather for lightning during summer storms.
Wilderness Park
Small riverfront park on the Homosassa River offering cypress-lined shore, mangrove edges, and abundant waterfowl — great for intimate nature and waterscape shots. Visit at sunrise or golden hour for warm light and glassy reflections; early mornings (and cooler months) yield more bird and manatee activity and fewer bugs. Park is roadside off S Suncoast Blvd with limited parking; light trails and shoreline access make handheld or monopod shooting easy. No formal entrance fee, but bring insect rep
Lighthill Island
Small island park on a freshwater lake offering classic Florida waterscapes: calm reflections, marsh grasses, native birds and a small lighthouse/beacon feature. Best at golden hour (sunrise or sunset) for warm light and mirror-like reflections. Easily accessible by car with nearby street parking; expect mosquitoes in warmer months. No special permits for casual photography; check private-property signs. Weekday mornings are quieter.
Central Ridge Park
Small county park with oak hammocks, wetlands and ponds offering intimate nature scenes, birdlife and reflective waters. Best at golden hour (sunrise or sunset) for warm light and glassy reflections; spring and migratory seasons for birds and wildflowers. Easy roadside parking on W Lake Beverly Dr, paved paths and a short boardwalk—no entry fee. Weekday mornings are quiet; expect mosquitoes in summer and bring insect repellent.
Dunnellon Trailhead
Paved Withlacoochee State Trail trailhead with shaded oak canopy, river and bridge viewpoints, and long straight rail-trail leading lines. Photograph tree tunnels, reflections on the Withlacoochee River, cyclists and quiet trail scenes. Best at golden hour or early morning for soft light and mist; winter months offer cooler temps and fewer bugs. Easy access with free parking at 1279 W Withlacoochee Trail; trail is wheelchair-accessible and flat. No entry fee; weekdays are quieter. Watch for fast
Wonderfield Farm & Retreat
Wonderfield Farm & Retreat offers pastoral scenes—orchards, gardens, grazing livestock, rustic buildings and quiet trails—ideal for intimate farmstead and nature portraits. Visit at golden hour for warm side-lighting; spring and early autumn bring peak blooms and greener fields. Property is rural with onsite parking; check for scheduled events or retreat bookings and request access for private shoots. Expect uneven terrain and insect activity in summer.
Mielke Way Gardens
A compact riverside garden with native Florida plants, boardwalks and water viewpoints — great for close-up plant and butterfly shots, birding and peaceful riverscape compositions. Visit spring for peak blooms and mornings or golden hour for soft light and reflections. Small parking area and easy on-foot access; paths and boardwalks can be narrow and slightly uneven. Weekdays and early mornings reduce crowds and bugs. Nearby Homosassa waters add chances for birdlife and water reflections.
Arrow Family Campground
Small waterfront campground on the Homosassa River with docks, mangroves, tidal flats and abundant birdlife — excellent for intimate nature, waterscape and wildlife shots (eg. herons, egrets, seasonal manatees). Visit at golden hour for warm reflections; winter months bring more manatees. Public access and small parking near entrance; check for day‑use rules and quiet hours if staying overnight. Easy accessibility from Suncoast Blvd; expect mosquitoes in warmer months.
Fire Station Park
Small riverside park on the Homosassa River offering marsh and boat-traffic scenes, shoreline reflections, and nearby cypress/mangrove framing. Best at golden hour for warm light and long reflections; sunsets can silhouette boats and trees. Easy street parking and level paths — no entry fee. Weekdays and early mornings minimize anglers and boaters. Combine with nearby Homosassa Springs for wildlife shots.
Fero Memorial Gardens
Quiet memorial gardens with manicured lawns, mature oaks, memorial sculptures and winding paths — good for contemplative landscapes, detail shots of stonework and intimate nature frames. Best at golden hour for warm side-light and long shadows; weekday mornings minimize visitors. Site is accessible by car with on-site parking; observe signage and quiet/respectful behavior. No fee typical; check for special events or maintenance closures.
Ingall Veterans Memorial
A compact veterans memorial with flag displays, plaques, sculptural elements and manicured landscaping—good for respectful portraiture, detail shots of inscriptions, and compositions combining flags with palm trees and low Florida light. Best at golden hour or just after sunrise for warm side-light and fewer visitors; sunset can silhouette flags. Easily accessible from the roadside with on-site parking, no entry fee, and wheelchair-friendly paths. Observe quiet decorum during ceremonies.
Withlacoochee-Dunnellon Trail connector
A flat, paved trail through pine/oak hammock and wetland edges offering long leading lines, boardwalk reflections, and abundant birdlife — great for landscape, nature and bird photography. Best at sunrise or golden hour for warm side light and long shadows; late afternoon also good for backlit foliage. Accessible, free parking at the trailhead (1501 W Magenta Dr), wheelchair- and bike-friendly; no entry fees. Weekday mornings have fewer people and fewer cyclists; bring insect repellent in warm/w
Howard's Flea Market
Bustling open-air flea market with colorful stalls, vintage props, signage and candid vendor portraits—ideal for texture-rich, documentary-style images. Best visited early weekday mornings for soft light and fewer crowds, or late afternoon for warm tones. Outdoor site with ample parking and free entry; bring water in summer heat and ask vendors before shooting. Easy accessibility from Suncoast Blvd.
Cedar Breeze RV Park
Small, wooded RV park on Florida’s Homosassa corridor offering intimate campsite scenes, shaded palms, lakes/pond edges and easy access to nearby coastal waterways and wildlife. Best for sunrise and golden-hour shots of reflections and mist, early-morning wildlife (wading birds, turtles) and documentary images of RV life. Accessible by car with on-site parking; respect private sites and check office for permission to photograph guests. Weekday mornings are quiet; summer afternoons can be harshly
Town Square
Small waterfront town square with historic storefronts, a gazebo and nearby marina — good for capturing colorful façades, street scenes, boardwalk reflections and sunset over the water. Visit at golden hour or blue hour for warm light and calmer water; winter months bring manatee activity nearby. Easy street parking and walkable layout; no entry fee. Weekdays are quieter. Expect humid subtropical weather and occasional afternoon storms in summer.
Forest Finds LLC
Small wooded property offering dense Florida hammock vegetation, ferns, mossy trunks and intimate nature scenes — good for close-up plant/texture work, small wildlife and moody forest light. Best early morning or late afternoon for soft, directional light and possible fog; weekdays are quieter. Property appears to be a private business — call ahead for permission and opening hours. On-site parking likely; terrain is mostly flat but can be uneven and damp after rain.
Beverly Hills Skate Court
Small community skate court with concrete bowls, rails and textured surfaces—good for action shots, slow-motion tricks and gritty urban details. Easy roadside access and free parking; street parking along W Roosevelt Blvd. Best visited at golden hour or overcast afternoons for even light; weekdays and early mornings have fewer skaters. No entry fees; be respectful of local skaters and watch for wet surfaces after rain.
Old Homosassa Veterans Memorial
Small riverside memorial honoring veterans with flagpoles, plaques and a tranquil waterfront setting. Photograph memorial details against the Homosassa River backdrop, reflections on calm water, and surrounding mangroves. Best at sunrise or golden hour for warm directional light and long shadows; evenings offer colorful skies. Easy roadside access and free parking nearby; no entry fee. Weekdays are quieter. Respectful behavior expected around memorial plaques and flag displays.
Beverly Hills Water Tower
A small-town painted water tower set against Florida skies — a striking subject for graphic architectural and urban shots. Easy roadside access with street parking; no entry required. Best photographed at golden hour or after a summer storm for dramatic clouds. Weekday mornings are quiet. Respect private property around the base.
American Marine Contractors
Working marine yard on the Crystal River corridor — shoot moored workboats, lifting gear, dock textures and reflections on calm water. Best at golden hour or low wind for glassy reflections; weekdays quieter. Site is private/industrial: expect fenced areas, ask permission before entering. Street parking nearby off Gulf to Lake Hwy; tripod use is fine from public edge. Combines industrial character with coastal light and vessel detail.
Citrus County Dog Park
Small county dog park with open grass, shaded pavilions and fenced play areas—great for capturing candid pet action, joyful interactions, and environmental portraits. Best light is early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds. Surface is flat and accessible; free parking nearby. No formal entry fee; follow posted park rules. Expect leash rules, enthusiastic dogs, and friendly owners—good for lifestyle and animal behavior shots.
park and fountain welcome park
Small community park centered on a decorative fountain and landscaped lawns — good for calm water reflections, close-ups of water textures and seasonal flora. Easily accessible off N Citrus Springs Blvd with roadside parking; no entry fees. Best at sunrise or late afternoon for warm light and fewer locals; mid-day offers high contrast for detail shots. Wheelchair-accessible paths; quiet suburban setting limits dramatic vistas but favors intimate compositions.
Gorilla Road Side Attraction
A quirky roadside gorilla statue/installation in Crystal River — a good subject for Americana and travel-documentary shots. Shoot wide contextual frames that place the sculpture against Florida sky and palms, plus tight detail images of texture and paint. Best at golden hour or blue hour for rich color; weekdays and mornings avoid traffic. Easy roadside access and informal parking; no entry fees. Works well as part of a Florida road-trip series.
Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge Maintenance Shop And Office
Small maintenance compound on the edge of Chassahowitzka NWR offers industrial foregrounds against marshes, river channels and frequent wading birds. Best light at golden hours when morning mist and low sun illuminate wetlands. Roadside parking is limited; respect signs — the shop itself may be off-limits, but nearby boardwalks, boat launches and river edges provide strong compositions. Weekday mornings bring fewer people and more active wildlife. Bring mosquito protection in warmer months.
Crystal River Gorilla
Small roadside attraction/storefront on US-19 in Crystal River — good for photographing Americana signage, storefront textures and candid street scenes. Easy roadside parking and wheelchair-accessible entrance; visit on weekdays to avoid traffic. Combine with nearby Kings Bay and Three Sisters Springs for stronger nature shots (manatees) — golden hour and overcast light help preserve sign colors and reduce harsh shadows.
Crystal River Escape Room
Small indoor attraction offering themed sets and props ideal for candid player reactions, environmental portraits, and detailed macro shots of puzzles. Reservation-only; ask staff permission for photography. Best visited on weekday afternoons or after public sessions to avoid crowds. Lighting is mostly low, artificial and colored — expect to work with high ISO or bring a compact continuous LED. Street parking and wheelchair-accessible entry at the plaza.
Fero Funeral Home with Crematory
Modest suburban funeral home with clean lines, landscaped grounds and memorial signage — shoot architectural details (entry portico, stained glass or plaques), landscaped approaches and quiet contemplative scenes. Best light is early morning or late afternoon for soft side-light and long shadows; avoid photographing during services and request permission from staff. On-site parking off Lecanto Hwy; property is private so be discreet and respectful.
Gemini Graphics Printing, Inc.
Small commercial print shop offering textured industrial subjects: presses, ink trays, CMYK proofs, signage and finished prints. Shoot close-up textures, workflow sequences, and branded exterior signage. Visit weekdays during business hours—ask for permission; staff are present and parking is on-site. Best light near storefront windows mid-morning or late afternoon; interior lighting is mixed (fluorescent), so bring a fast lens or flash and expect to white-balance for warm/magenta casts.