The Potts Preserve property was acquired to protect the area’s groundwater recharge, important surface water features, and wetland habitats.
The preserve’s wetlands play a role in the Tsala Apopka Chain of Lakes and the Withlacoochee River systems, part of the Floridan aquifer’s recharge/discharge system.
Additionally, the site provides habitat to wildlife, including a small population of threatened Florida scrub jays.
Recreation Opportunities
Bicycling
Recreation Description
- Approximately 9 miles of multi-use trails.
- Bicyclists are required to stay on designated or marked trails.
Birding
Recreation Description
- Site is located on the western section of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail.
- Contact Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) for more information.
Boating
Recreation Description
- Nearest public boat ramp at the end of CR 581.
Camping
- Separate sites are available for equestrian, primitive, and backcountry camping.
- Sites have picnic tables, fire rings, and/or grills.
- A free reservation is required and must be displayed or available at the campground.
Backcountry
- These campsites are accessible only by foot.
- These sites have a picnic table and a fire ring.
- The Eastern Amberwing campsite is located at the south end of the property, and the Holly Tree campsite is located in the northern portion. Please use the property map for reference.
Equestrian
Recreation Description
- Approximately 9 miles of multi-use trails.
- Riders are required to stay on designated or marked trails.
- Each rider must carry proof of horse’s current negative Coggins test.
- Horse-drawn buggy riding requires a free day-use reservation for buggy access behind locked gate.
- Florida law requires equestrians under 16 to wear helmets.
Fishing
Recreation Description
- Fishing and frogging allowed throughout year along river.
- Contact FWC for license requirements.
Hiking
Recreation Description
- Approximately 22 miles open for hiking, including a 4-mile river trail.
- Prepare for wet hiking; some trails are excessively wet during certain times of year.
- Orange blaze symbols indicate primary trail. Blue blazes indicate side trails. Double blaze symbols indicate a sharp turn in trail.
Hunting
Recreation Description
- Contact FWC for information regarding license requirements and permits.
- FWC rules and regulations must be observed throughout the year.
- Non-Wildlife Management Area Public Use Area hunting open year-round in occurrence with applicable state regulations.
Additional Information
Access and Parking
- Day-use parking off Hooty Point gives access to river hiking trail and backcountry camp.
- Parking at Dee River Road gate for trails leading to upland and freshwater marsh communities. Equestrian parking available.
Restrooms and Water
- ADA accessible portable toilets available at campgrounds.
- Nonpotable water available at equestrian area.
Location
- Northeastern Citrus County, east of Inverness
- 2700 Dee River Road – Equestrian Camping
- 2988 North Hooty Point – River Hiking Trail and Campground Inverness, FL 34453
For more information, contact Land Resources, Southwest Florida Water Management District, 1-800-423-1476 (FL only) or (352) 796-7211, ext. 4470
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