Things to see and do in Croom, Florida

Croom, Florida: A Wild Playground for Off-Roaders, Hikers, and Nature Lovers

If you’re looking for the wild side of Florida—the kind with dusty trails, dense woods, and no crowds—Croom is calling your name. Located in Hernando County, just north of Brooksville and a little over an hour from Tampa or Orlando, Croom is part of the massive Withlacoochee State Forest. It’s not a town exactly—more like a region—but to outdoor enthusiasts, "Croom" means one thing: adventure.

The heart of it all is the Croom Motorcycle Area (CMA), a 2,600-acre off-road riding paradise. Dirt bikers and ATV riders from all over Florida flock here for the rugged terrain, elevation changes, and a network of sandy, winding trails that range from beginner-friendly to straight-up intense. It’s one of the few places in the state where off-road riders have free rein, and it’s set up to handle it—with parking, wash stations, picnic areas, and even a campground.

But Croom isn’t just for riders. It’s surrounded by some of the most scenic land in the state, with hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking trails stretching across thousands of acres. The Withlacoochee State Trail, a 46-mile paved trail, runs right through the area and is perfect for cyclists or anyone looking for a long, quiet walk in the woods.

If hiking’s your thing, head to Croom Tract Trailhead. You’ll find loop trails that take you through pine flatwoods, oak hammocks, and open scrub, with a good chance of spotting deer, wild turkeys, or even a gopher tortoise along the way. In spring, the wildflowers pop. In fall, the weather is perfect. And all year, it’s peaceful.

Croom also has a rich history. During the late 1800s, it was home to a small phosphate mining town—now long gone, with only whispers of the past left in the forest. Some trails still pass old rail beds and forgotten mining pits, adding a bit of mystery to the landscape.

Camping in Croom is rustic and real. Sites like Silver Lake Campground or Crooked River Campground offer a mix of tent and RV sites, some with hookups, most with direct trail access. At night, you’ll hear crickets, not car horns. And the stars? No light pollution here—just a sky full of them.

What makes Croom special is its authenticity. It’s not commercial. It’s not polished. It’s raw Florida—sandy trails, dense woods, and the kind of quiet that’s getting harder to find. Whether you’re tearing through the forest on an ATV, pedaling the trail with a daypack, or sitting by the fire with a cold drink and no agenda, Croom gives you space to breathe.

So if you're craving a getaway that doesn’t involve crowds or screens—just dirt, trees, and a little adrenaline—Croom is your spot. Bring your gear, pack your boots, and get ready to unplug. Out here, nature runs the show.

Viator offers numerous tours near Croom. Click here for more information.  vi.me/keiyN 

For more information on wineries, distilleries, and craft breweries in the area visit https://flbwd.com 

ATV riding in the Croom Motorcycle Area (CMA)

ATV and motorcycle trail in the Croom Motorcycle Area (CMA)

Off road jeep trails in the Withlacoochee State Forest

Silver Lake in the Withlacoochee State Forest

Hog Island on the Withlacoochee River

Withlacoochee River near Hog Island