Umatilla lies on the edge of the Ocala National Forest. Nature and local history give your trip two distinct focuses: hiking landscapes on one hand, and the town’s founding and citrus history on the other. This gives you time outdoors, cultural topics, and a possible event date to consider as you plan.
Hiking Landscapes and Trails
At 40929 State Road 19 in Umatilla, you can hike through coastal lowlands, swamps, lakes, and ponds in the Ocala National Forest. The variety of landscapes shapes the character of this hike. Since conditions at the site may change, check the latest conditions before setting out.
Near Umatilla is Sawgrass Island, a 1,137-acre preserve featuring sawgrass swamps and longleaf pine communities. If you plan to visit this preserve, check conditions and access information in advance.
North Lake Community Park has a 1.4-mile loop trail. This adds a specific trail length alongside the landscape types and area of Sawgrass Island: the loop offers a defined route, while sawgrass swamps and longleaf pine communities shape the scenery there. These different connections to nature can help you plan your time outdoors around your own interests.
Local History and Citrus Growing
Nathan J Trowell founded the town of Umatilla in 1856. Citrus growing later shaped the economy: it was Umatilla’s main industry in the 20th century, until the freezes of the late 1980s. The town’s founding and citrus economy provide two points of reference in its history.
In the broader context of Central Florida is The Big Orange at Sunsational Farms. This citrus-growing landmark has been part of Central Florida’s citrus-growing history since the 1970s. The Sunsational Farms Country Store covers 2,000 square feet and offers products by local artisans, fresh produce, and regional foods. The selection may change.
Art, Museum, and Event
Cadwell Park in Umatilla has a collection of large chainsaw carvings depicting local wildlife. The installation’s condition may change, so check what is currently on display before visiting. The Umatilla Historical Museum features local artifacts and historical exhibits. The two locations offer different perspectives: the park focuses on depictions of wildlife, while the museum features local objects and historical exhibits.
The Black Bear Festival 2027 is scheduled for Saturday, January 30, 2027, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Cadwell Park in Umatilla. If you include the event in your travel plans, confirm the details beforehand, as they may change.
Discover more destinations: Howey-In-The-Hills, Minneola, Fruitland Park, Tavares, Eustis, Groveland, Mt Dora, Silver Lake
For the broader travel overview: Lake.
