The area around Orange City is rich in outdoor recreation. Blue Spring and Hontoon Island State Parks lie just west of Orange City; Lake George State Forest and the Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge are not far to the northwest, and the vast Ocala National Forest is just over an hour away. In short, there are dozens of easy day trips from your Central East FL bed and breakfast.
An outing to Hontoon Island State Park will reveal the rich Native American history of the region in a stunning setting. The island is only accessible by boat: visitors may use the park ferry, rent a canoe or kayak, or take their own boat. Once there, enjoy a leisurely 3 mile (round trip) hike to a large Indian mound at the southwest corner of the island. Or bring your fishing pole and try for largemouth bass off the shore. (more…)