Blue Run of Dunnellon Park — Attraction in Dunnellon

Blue Run is nestled in the outskirts of Dunnellon. As a matter of fact, while your walking, running, biking, skateboarding or the like you completely forget how near to city conveniences you are. It's easy to be off in la-la land forgetting the days woes or just simply taking a break to see some nature. A big nature draw to Blue Run are the alligators! Who doesn't want to see an American Alligator in the flesh knowing it's species has roamed earth for millions of years! I personally feel honored. Just view from a distance quietly and you'll be amazed at their beauty. Lots more nature if you're not into gators. There's butterflies, birds and fish. Cool interesting flowers and trees. Lots of friendly folks too. Don't forget about Rainbow River! Talk about a beauty. Crystal clear waters that are so warm and inviting. Grab your kayak, floats, tubes etc., and jump in for a refreshing swim or float. There is a free launch and free parking. If the first parking lot is full just take a right and there's another one a block up. You can pull in, unload your gear then go park and walk back. Super easy short walk. Very safe area. Just PLEASE be aware of moving vehicles at head. There are no plastic disposable bottles(water, soda etc) allowed on river. If you get in water from launch and head to the right you'll be heading UP stream. Lots of cool birds. The Anhinga also know as the snake bird (bc when it's in water it's neck is so long and the way it moves looks like snake) are fun to watch. Also the Cormorant. These two birds almost like identical except Anhinga has straight point break, other has curve tip at end. Fun eh? You'll see both sitting on branches holding wings out to dry. Sometimes they fan them. I'll let you discover the rest. Go have fun and explore so you can set a date for...

Really enjoyed walking both the paved trails and natural trails. Signage everywhere pointing out different flora and fauna...along with facts about them. Well maintained and safe. Many other families were also utilizing area. There are opportunities for short easy hikes or endless because paved trail meets up with the Withlacoochee Trail. Great also for biking, skating, etc. Dog friendly. Beautiful scenery along the Rainbow and Withlacoochee rivers. Loved the views on the bridge overlooking the Withlacoochee. Seen allot of wildlife including turtles, gators, birds, etc. They also have a kayak, canoe, swimming or tubing launching area which is super convenient and very well maintained. Boardwalk goes all the way to the crystal clear river. Parking is difficult because it's a popular place and parking lot isn't huge. They do have an overflow parking area down the road. I'm sure in the summertime it's even harder to get a spot due to more people wanting to get in the water. We were there 1st of April so it wasn't too bad yet. Many benches scattered throughout the area to relax, reflect or take a break. Definitely not a quiet place because you hear all the traffic from around the area. Nice place to walk of your lunch from the many great restaurants...

A beautiful park. Has limited parking with about 15 spots and an overflow lot nearby. Larger size vehicles and trailers go to the overflow after unloading. Be sure to read the rules and regulations as they do check and will give citations for alcohol or certain plastic items so "read and heed" the sign. The hiking trail is nice. Paved and well maintained. Bikes allowed. Leashed dogs are allowed but I won't go off the main trail because of the possibility of alligators. There are caution signs concerning the wildlife. I've been here often with my dog. Bring the dogs water bottle as you don't want it to get near any water to drink and doggy bags. They have porta potties at the beginning of the trail. There are benches located along the trail....