Explore the Hidden Gems of the Nature Coast
If you want to completely escape the tourist crowds and experience the quiet, everyday charm of Central Florida, our neighboring communities offer the perfect quiet retreat. Nestled among rolling hills, pristine rivers, and sprawling state forests, the towns of Dunnellon, Lecanto, Citrus Springs, and Beverly Hills provide a peaceful home base that still puts you just a short drive away from the area’s best attractions.
Dunnellon: The Home of Rainbow Springs
Located just over the northern Citrus County border, Dunnellon is a picturesque river town famous for its crystal-clear waters and historic charm.
- Float the Rainbow River: Dunnellon is famous for Rainbow Springs State Park. The water stays a refreshing 72 degrees year-round, making it the ultimate spot for tubing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
- Riverside Dining: After a day on the water, pull up to local waterfront favorites like Swampy’s Bar & Grille or The Blue Gator to grab some seafood right on the Withlacoochee River.
- Historic Downtown: Stroll through the walkable historic district filled with antique shops, local boutiques, and cozy cafes.
Lecanto: The Heart of the County
Geographically located right in the middle of Citrus County, Lecanto is defined by its rolling hills, massive oak trees, and easy access to both the lakes and the coast.
- The Perfect Middle Ground: Staying in Lecanto means you are perfectly situated exactly halfway between the manatees of Crystal River and the historic downtown square of Inverness.
- World-Class Golf: Lecanto is surrounded by gorgeous, elevated terrain and top-tier golf courses, offering a surprisingly hilly landscape for Florida.
- State Forest Trails: Enjoy incredibly easy access to the Citrus Tract of the Withlacoochee State Forest, offering miles of hiking, off-roading, and equestrian trails.
Citrus Springs: Peaceful & Trail-Ready
Tucked away in the northern part of the county, Citrus Springs is a quiet, relaxed residential community surrounded by nature.
- Hit the Trail: Citrus Springs features excellent access to the Withlacoochee State Trail. You can easily hop on your bike and ride for miles under a shaded canopy of trees.
- Close to the Springs: You get all the peace and quiet of a suburban retreat while being just a 10-minute drive straight up US-41 to the tubing and kayaking of Dunnellon’s Rainbow River.
- Play a Round: Enjoy a peaceful, uncrowded morning on the greens at the local Citrus Springs Golf & Country Club.
Beverly Hills: Centrally Located Convenience
Built on some of the highest elevations in Citrus County, Beverly Hills offers a quiet, community-focused atmosphere with unbeatable convenience.
- The Ultimate Basecamp: Beverly Hills sits right in the center of the action. You are mere minutes from boating in Crystal River, dining in Inverness, or kayaking in Dunnellon.
- Twisted Oaks Golf Club: Hit the links right in town at Twisted Oaks, known for its rolling fairways and elevation changes that give it a unique feel compared to typical flat Florida courses.
- Community Parks: Enjoy access to well-maintained local parks, tennis courts, and quiet neighborhood streets perfect for morning walks or bike rides.
Find Your Perfect Basecamp
Sometimes the best vacations happen off the beaten path. Whether you are looking for a trailside retreat in Citrus Springs, a boater’s getaway near Dunnellon, or a centrally located basecamp in Lecanto or Beverly Hills, these exclusive properties offer a quiet, private escape. Browse our hidden gem vacation rentals below.
