Bearhead Hammock Recreational Area

For those in Florida seeking a true escape into the wild, where the sounds of nature replace city noise and the stars shine brighter than anywhere else, Bearhead Hammock Recreational Area offers an unparalleled primitive camping experience. Located within the Two Mile Prairie Tract of Withlacoochee State Forest, this hidden gem is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those with a love for equestrian adventures. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of old Florida forests.

Bearhead Hammock is more than just a campground; it’s a gateway to miles of trails, abundant wildlife, and a serene environment perfect for unwinding. Unlike many developed campgrounds, Bearhead Hammock prides itself on its primitive nature, offering a raw and authentic camping experience that appeals to those who appreciate simplicity and self-reliance. Whether you’re looking to hike through ancient oaks, ride horseback through picturesque landscapes, or simply enjoy the quiet solitude of the forest, this recreational area provides the perfect backdrop for your adventures.

Bearhead Hammock Recreational Area is conveniently situated at 7101-7169, Co Rd 491, Hernando, FL 34442, USA. This location places it within the Two Mile Prairie Tract of Withlacoochee State Forest, approximately 10 miles north of Inverness, FL. Its central location within Citrus County makes it an accessible retreat for many Floridians, offering a manageable drive for a weekend trip or an extended stay.

Despite its primitive nature, the area is accessible by vehicle, making it suitable for both tent campers and those with RVs, even large rigs. While the roads within the campground loop can be narrow with some overhanging trees, visitors have reported navigating them without significant issues. The proximity to State Road 39 and other well-maintained roads ensures a relatively smooth journey to the campground. This balance of secluded natural beauty and reasonable accessibility means you can easily reach your destination and begin your outdoor escape without excessive travel complications.

Bearhead Hammock Recreational Area focuses on providing essential services that support a primitive camping and equestrian experience, ensuring a comfortable yet authentic stay in the wilderness.

• Vaulted Toilet Restrooms: Basic, clean vaulted toilet restrooms are available, providing necessary facilities for campers. It's important to note there are no bathhouses or showers.
• Non-Potable Hand Pump Water: A hand pump is available for non-potable water, suitable for general use. Visitors should plan to bring their own potable water for drinking and cooking.
• Equestrian Stalls: Each primitive campsite is equipped with covered equestrian stalls, making it an ideal destination for horseback riders traveling with their horses. There are four mini corrals available for overnight campers.
• Fire Rings: Designated fire rings are present at each campsite, allowing for campfires and outdoor cooking.
• Picnic Tables: Every campsite includes a bolted-down picnic table, providing a convenient space for meals and outdoor gatherings.
• Garbage Bins: Trash cans are provided at each site, encouraging campers to maintain a clean environment.
• Numerous Trails and Forest Service Roads: The area is crisscrossed with many trails and forest service roads, offering extensive opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and exploration.

Bearhead Hammock Recreational Area stands out due to its unique features and highlights, catering specifically to those who seek a more rugged and immersive outdoor experience in Florida.

• Premier Equestrian Destination: With abundant hitching posts at trailheads and individual horse corrals at campsites, this is a highly popular and well-equipped area for horseback riding enthusiasts. It boasts access to 10.5 miles of dedicated equestrian trails.
• Primitive Camping Experience: The campground offers a truly primitive setting, allowing campers to disconnect from modern conveniences. There is no electricity or bathhouses, emphasizing a back-to-basics approach to camping.
• Extensive Trail System: Beyond equestrian trails, the area offers numerous forest service roads and hiking trails. These paths wind through old Florida forests, featuring huge live oaks and diverse natural landscapes.
• Hidden Quarries: Visitors have noted the presence of two huge abandoned quarries alongside the trails, often hidden by tree growth, offering a unique element of exploration for those curious enough to find them.
• Abundant Wildlife and Nature Study: The area is rich in wildlife, making it excellent for wildlife viewing, bird watching, wildflower viewing, and general nature study. This natural habitat provides a serene backdrop for observing Florida's native species.
• Stargazing Opportunities: Away from urban light pollution, Bearhead Hammock offers fantastic opportunities for stargazing, allowing campers to marvel at the night sky.
• Large, Grassy Campsites: The campsites are spacious, set on huge grassy areas with a mix of sun and shade trees, providing ample room for tents and RVs. Campers can pull in anywhere they wish on their site.
• Secluded and Quiet Atmosphere: Despite its popularity among horse riders, the campground is generally described as quiet and peaceful, offering a true sense of solitude and natural tranquility.

For any inquiries or planning your visit to Bearhead Hammock Recreational Area, you can reach them through the following contact information:

Address: 7101-7169, Co Rd 491, Hernando, FL 34442, USA (Located within the Two Mile Prairie Tract of Withlacoochee State Forest)

Phone: (352) 797-4140

Mobile Phone: +1 352-797-4140

It is always recommended to contact the park directly for the most up-to-date information regarding site availability, potential logging activities, or any specific regulations, especially concerning prescribed burns or chainsaw use. While the contact information provided is for the recreational area, general inquiries about the Withlacoochee State Forest can also be directed to the Florida Forest Service.

For Floridians seeking an authentic and immersive outdoor experience, Bearhead Hammock Recreational Area is an exceptional choice. Unlike many of the state's more developed campgrounds, this area offers a genuine primitive camping environment, allowing locals to truly disconnect from urban life and reconnect with nature. Its focus on equestrian activities makes it particularly appealing to horse owners, providing dedicated facilities that are hard to find elsewhere. The extensive network of trails, ideal for both hiking and horseback riding, ensures that every visit can bring new discoveries, from ancient live oaks to hidden quarries.

The quiet, respectful atmosphere, combined with the abundance of wildlife and opportunities for stargazing, creates a serene escape that is perfect for rejuvenating the mind and body. For those who appreciate self-sufficiency and the simple pleasures of a campfire under the stars, Bearhead Hammock provides an unparalleled setting. Moreover, by utilizing and appreciating these natural resources, local Floridians contribute to the ongoing preservation of the state's precious forest lands and unique ecosystems. Bearhead Hammock isn't just a place to camp; it's an invitation to experience Florida's wild heart, making it an ideal destination for any local looking for a truly memorable outdoor adventure.

Bearhead Hammock Recreational Area

7101-7169, Co Rd 491, Hernando, FL 34442, USA