[MikeandClara]

Have kids coming to visit. Looking for suggestions on bird watching, nature trails. They are bird watchers, hikers, anything outdoors. Please and thank you in advance.

[champion6]

Take a look at this website: Sumter County Tourism | Discover the Real Florida Click on Things To Do and look at Scenic/Trails

[rustyp]

Take the kids to Fenny - nature trails, put put golf, walk in swimming pool, and snack bar. All consolidated in one place.

[raynan]

Capt Mike's river boat tours behind the Stumpknocker's restaurant.

[Amb3rTastic]

I like doing the trail at Alexander Springs if you don't mind a drive. Locally, Okahumpka State Park is lovely.

[8notes]

Originally Posted by MikeandClara

Have kids coming to visit. Looking for suggestions on bird watching, nature trails. They are bird watchers, hikers, anything outdoors. Please and thank you in advance.

If they like kayaking or canoeing, Silver Springs State Park up in Ocala has canoes or kayaks to rent, and it is really lovely. You can see gators, tons of birds, and there are several colonies of monkeys. Go first thing in the morning to avoid any crowds. There are also hiking trails in the park. We rented canoes for a couple hours and really enjoyed it.

[joldnol]

Originally Posted by raynan

Capt Mike's river boat tours behind the Stumpknocker's restaurant.

I second that. Stumpknockers on 200 not in Inverness

[bluedivergirl]

Another vote for Lake Okahumpka. Walking trails, fitness stations, covered pavilion. There are varying sizes of canoes to rent. Playground and restrooms.

[VApeople]

Originally Posted by 8notes

If they like kayaking or canoeing, Silver Springs State Park up in Ocala has canoes or kayaks to rent, and it is really lovely. You can see gators, tons of birds, and there are several colonies of monkeys.

We were there a few weeks ago and the park employee said the wild monkeys have become a serious problem. One couple said they were cornered by a group of monkeys and had to be rescued by people in a boat.

[VApeople]

We like Fort Cooper near Inverness. Very nice system of trails. Inverness had good places for lunch and a nice walk at Cooter Pond. On the way, you can stop at Wild Bills for an airboat ride.

[billethkid]

Be sure to put Gatorland on your list.
Much more than just gators....zip lines...animal shows...interactive exhibits...and lottsa gators....

Gatorland | Orlando Florida Family Attraction | Adventure Theme Park

[MikeandClara]

Thank you EVERYONE for all the suggestions.