Size
8,500 acres
Location
Northeastern Citrus County, east of Inverness
About the Property
The property was acquired for protection of the area’s groundwater recharge, as well as important surface water features and wetland habitats. The preserve’s wetlands play a role in both 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.
The preserve was renamed in memory of Michael T. Potts, a District employee who lost his life in an accident while performing a pre-acquisition land survey of the property.
Access and Parking
- Day-use parking off Hooty Point Road gives access to river hiking trail.
- Parking at Dee River Road gate for trails leading to upland and freshwater marsh communities.
Hours of Operation
Daily from sunrise to sunset.
Restrooms and Water
Portable toilets located at equestrian and river campgrounds. No water available.
Recreational Opportunities
Bicycling
- Shared-use trails.
- Always wear helmet. Florida law requires bicyclists under 16 to wear helmets.
Bird Watching
- Site 57 on western section of Great Florida Birding Trail.
- Contact Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) for more information.
Boating and Paddling
- Water-based recreation on Tsala Apopka Lake and Withlacoochee River, an Outstanding Florida Water.
- Nearest public boat ramp at end of CR 581.
- River campsite and picnic area available on a first come, first- served basis. No permit required.
Camping
- Separate primitive, group and equestrian camping areas available (see map).
- Well water available by equestrian and oak hammock campgrounds. Boil or purify before consuming.
- Free permit required to camp.
- Vehicles allowed into oak hammock, equestrian and river campgrounds with valid camping permit.
Equestrian Use
- 12 miles of marked woods roads available for equestrian use.
- Horse-drawn buggy riding. Free permit required.
- Proof of current negative Coggins test must be carried by each rider.
Fishing
- Fishing and frogging allowed throughout year along river.
- Contact FWC for license requirements.
Hiking
- 30 miles open for hiking, including a 4-mile river trail and 16-mile loop trail.
- Orange blazes denote main trail. Blue blazes denote side trails. Double blazes denote sharp turn.
- For more information, contact Florida Trail Association at 1-877-445-3352 (in FL) or (352) 378-8823.
- During hunting season, hikers encouraged to wear 500 square inches of blaze orange clothing above waist.
Hunting
View regulations summary for this property- Contact FWC for information regarding license requirements and permits, rules and regulations.
- Hunters can enter property by vehicle during hunting season through Dee River Road entrance. All visitors must register at FWC check station.
- Drive only on designated roads and park only at designated parking areas.
Nearby Recreation Lands
- Flying Eagle
- Gum Slough
- Panasoffkee Outlet
- Two Mile Prairie
For More Information
Land Resources Department, Southwest Florida Water Management District, 1-800-423-1476 (FL only) or (352) 796-7211, ext. 4470
