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Biking in the Goethe State Forest

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Explore Florida's Nature Coast

Spend the weekend away without going far, Staycation in the nearby Levy County.

A tranquil destination to relax and decompress for the weekend, Black Prong Equestrian Village is a 90-acre equestrian resort surrounded by the Goethe State Forest and just 30 miles from Gainesville. With cottages, luxury tiny homes, airstream trailers, RV pads, and on-site dining, a weekend stay is easy. The beach entrance pool, tranquil property, and direct access to forest trails make it an ideal nature lover’s getaway. Black Prong is just a short drive from many local outdoor experiences, making it the perfect home base for exploring Florida’s Nature Coast.

Explore the natural beauty all around you:

Hike, bike, or trail ride in the expansive Goethe State Forest

With 53,000 acres and over 100 miles of trails, there is so much to explore! The Goethe is made up of longleaf pine flatwoods and swamp basins, and contains 19 different ecological communities, each with unique plants and animals.

Swim in a prehistoric spring

Devil’s Den is an underground spring inside a dry cave. Visitors can snorkel or scuba dive through the cave. Many fossils have been found inside, dating back to the Pleistocene Age, which are on display at the UF FL Museum of Natural History.

Float in an inner-tube down a crystal-clear spring-fed river

Spending the day floating down a spring-fed lazy river is without a doubt a warm-weather tradition in Florida. Tubing down Rainbow River, in Dunnellon, floaters have the opportunity to cool off in the clear water, observe wildlife along the banks, and soak in the sunshine.

Family Fun and U-pick at Amber Brooke Farms

April is blueberry season at Amber Brooke Farms, but there is so much more than just u-pick! There are activities for the whole family, seasonal food, and often live music and events.

Take a trip out to Cedar Key

This quaint island community is known for its excellent gulf seafood and coastal landscape. Tidewater Boat Tours offers visitors the opportunity to spot wildlife, enjoy the sunset or visit the beach on the nearby Atsena Otie Key.

Read about more ways to enjoy Florida’s Nature Coast here: blackprong.com/staycation-at-black-prong

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