Exploring Croom Motorcycle Area (CMA): Withlacoochee State Forest, Brooksville, FL.

This time on Dan Goes Outside we head to Brooksville, FL to explore the Croom Motorcycle Area (CMA). The Croom Motorcycle Area (CMA) is located within the Withlacoochee State Forest near Brooksville, Florida and is a premier destination for off-roading. Encompassing approximately 2,600 acres, Croom offers a diverse terrain for riders of all skill levels. Croom's history dates back to the late 19th century when phosphate mining began in Florida. The Buttgenbach Mine, established in the early 1900s, operated in the area, leaving behind a landscape characterized by pits and mounds. After mining operations ceased, the land was acquired by the State of Florida in 1956 and later designated for recreational use. In 1973, through the collaborative efforts of the Florida Trail Riders and the Department of Agriculture, the Croom Motorcycle Area was officially established as Florida's only state property dedicated to off-highway motorcycle and ATV riders. CMA's terrain is a mix of hardwood hammocks, tight scrublands, and remnants of its mining past, including numerous pits and elevation changes. This variety offers riders a range of experiences, from easy trails suitable for beginners to challenging paths for seasoned riders. The area also features designated training zones and a Technical Riding Area (TRA) for those looking to hone their skills. Croom is situated near the remnants of a ghost town formerly known as Pemberton Ferry. Established in the late 1800s, the town thrived due to industries like logging, mining, and turpentine production. Today, visitors can explore historical artifacts, old railroad grades, and cemeteries that offer a glimpse into the area's rich history. Permits: An OHV permit is required to ride in CMA. Permits can be purchased as day passes or annual passes.​ Operating Hours: Riding is permitted from sunrise to sunset, seven days a week.​ Safety Gear: All riders must wear approved helmets. Riders under 16 must have direct adult supervision and wear additional protective gear, including eye protection and over-ankle boots.​ Vehicle Requirements: Only OHVs that are 55 inches or less in width and have a dry weight of 1,500 pounds or less are allowed. All vehicles must have mufflers and spark arresters.​ Camping: The Buttgenbach Campground within CMA offers 51 campsites equipped with water and electric hookups, providing easy access to the trails. ​ Croom is definitely one of my favorite locations to visit. I want to thank God for blessing me with the opportunity to go to these places and share them with all of you, it really is a true blessing and I want to acknowledge that all of this is only possible because of Jesus Christ working in my life to bring me here. I hope you enjoyed watching this as much as I did creating it. If you liked it please don't forget to like and subscribe and drop a comment of what you think. Until our next adventure guys, God bless you all and go outside.