Croom Wildlife Management Area

Q: What is Croom Wildlife Management Area?

A: Croom Wildlife Management Area is a protected natural area encompassing more than 20,000 acres within Withlacoochee State Forest, northeast of Brooksville. Located on Florida's Adventure Coast, the area features rolling hills, longleaf pine forests, cypress swamps and 13 miles of the scenic Withlacoochee River. It offers visitors opportunities to explore Florida's natural landscapes and enjoy outdoor recreation.

Q: Where is Croom Wildlife Management Area located?

A: Croom Wildlife Management Area spans portions of Hernando and Sumter counties, northeast of Brooksville. Visitors can access different sections through designated trailheads and recreation areas, including Tucker Hill Day Use Area at 26578 Croom Road, Brooksville, FL 34601, and Silver Lake Recreation Area off Croom Rital Road. Because the area is extensive, visitors should select a trailhead based on their planned activity.

Q: What activities can visitors enjoy at Croom Wildlife Management Area?

A: Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, birdwatching, wildlife photography, fishing, paddling and camping. The area offers approximately 31 miles of hiking trails, 64 miles of bicycle trails and 43 miles of equestrian trails. Seasonal hunting is also permitted under Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) regulations.

Q: What hiking and biking trails are available at Croom Wildlife Management Area?

A: Croom features an extensive network of trails winding through pine forests, hardwood hammocks and rolling terrain. The Croom Loop Hiking Trails offer several routes, including approximately 7- to 9-mile loops. Mountain bikers can explore challenging singletrack trails with sandy sections, hills and wooded scenery. The paved Withlacoochee State Trail also passes through the area, providing an option for recreational cyclists.

Q: What wildlife can visitors see at Croom Wildlife Management Area?

A: The area is home to white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, fox squirrels, gopher tortoises and a variety of native birds. Visitors may also spot swallow-tailed kites, woodpeckers, hawks and other wildlife. Along the Withlacoochee River, alligators and wading birds may be observed. Early mornings and late afternoons are excellent times for wildlife viewing.

Q: Can visitors camp at Croom Wildlife Management Area?

A: Yes! Camping is available in designated areas throughout the Croom Tract, including Silver Lake, Hog Island, River Junction and other developed or primitive camping locations. Facilities vary by campground and may include restrooms, showers, picnic tables and access to the Withlacoochee River. Reservations and camping fees may apply, and overnight camping is permitted only in designated areas.

Q: Is there an admission fee, and what are the operating hours?

A: Croom Wildlife Management Area is generally open for day use from sunrise to sunset. Some developed recreation areas require a day-use fee. For example, Tucker Hill Day Use Area charges $2 per person. Camping, organized group activities and certain recreational uses may require additional fees or reservations. Visitors should check current requirements before arriving.

Q: Is Croom Wildlife Management Area wheelchair accessible?

A: Accessibility varies throughout the property. Some developed recreation areas offer parking, restrooms and picnic facilities, but most hiking and mountain biking trails feature natural surfaces, including loose sand, exposed roots and uneven terrain. Visitors using wheelchairs or other mobility aids are encouraged to contact the Withlacoochee State Forest Visitor Center at 352-797-4140 to inquire about accessible facilities and suitable recreation areas.

Q: Are dogs allowed at Croom Wildlife Management Area?

A: Yes! Dogs are welcome in many areas of Croom Wildlife Management Area but must remain under physical restraint. Pets are not permitted in the Croom Motorcycle Area, and additional restrictions apply in certain hunting areas and locations posted as closed to pets. Visitors should bring drinking water for their dogs, clean up after them and keep pets from disturbing wildlife.

Q: What should visitors know about hunting seasons and safety before exploring Croom?

A: Croom Wildlife Management Area is an active hunting area, with designated hunting seasons generally occurring from fall through spring. Visitors should check the current FWC hunting calendar before planning a hike, bike ride or horseback excursion. Trail use is discouraged during muzzleloading and general gun hunting seasons, and brightly colored clothing is recommended during open hunting periods. Bring drinking water, insect repellent, sunscreen and a trail map, and stay on designated trails to help protect sensitive habitats.