First Settled by native American Indians in Crystal River about 500 years B.C., Citrus County has a rich history. The first European visitor to the Citrus County area was Spanish Conquistador, Juan Ponce de Leon in search of the fountain of youth.

During the Civil War era The Yulee family settled in the area of Homosassa and established the Yulee Sugar Mill. Producing cane sugar and syrup and exporting it by rail, they were expecting an attack by Union troops at any time.

Although the mill is gone, some ruins remain and this is where the current community of Sugarmill Woods gets its name.

Citrus County Florida was created in 1887 when the then larger Hernando County was split into Hernando, Pasco and Citrus County by the State Legislature.

Citrus County Florida is like no other place in Florida. Located in the heart of the “Nature Coast” on the Gulf of Mexico and with seven rivers running through it, Citrus County is often referred to as “Mother Nature's Theme Park”. One of the largest attractions to Citrus County are the world famous Manatees.

These gentle giants (once mistaken as mermaids by sailors) make the warm spring-fed waters of the Crystal River and the Homosassa River their home during the winter months.

The crystal clear spring waters are kept at a comfortable 72 degrees year round by mother nature. Much of the area is set aside as wildlife preserves to protect these unique endangered species.

With all the water around Citrus County its not hard to find someone to go fishing with. Freshwater and saltwater fishing alike are great sport here. The world record tarpon was caught right off the coast of Homosassa in the gulf of Mexico. And there are plenty of people who will tell you about their world record bass that got away.

Boating is also great in Citrus County, you can find people enjoying anything that floats from tubing down the river to kayaks and canoes as well as jet skis, airboats and pleasure boats.

You will even see an occasional commercial fishing boat bring back a fresh catch of stone crabs, shrimp, oysters, and fish. It is hard to beat Citrus County for fresh, delicious sea food dining.

Citrus County is a great place to live with plenty to do and a secure, small-town community feeling.

And with the Suncoast Parkway right at the southern end of the county, it is only about an hour drive to Tampa and Orlando is only about 90 minutes to the East.

Communities like Pine Ridge with its equestrian flare, miles of riding trails and golf and country club is an exciting new community on the rise.

Characterized by large estate homes and many residents with their own fenced horse pastures, Pine Ridge Estates offers great privacy.

Sugarmill Woods is another great example of what Citrus County has to offer. Sugarmill Woods was the first community in the United States to be designed using a green belt concept, where backyards back up to woods instead of other backyards.