Withlacoochee State Forest - Hog Island Primitive Boat Launch

The Hog Island Primitive Boat Launch is a basic, government-owned access point on the Withlacoochee River near Bushnell in Sumter County. This stand-alone ramp offers a small parking area and direct river access, making it suitable for kayakers, canoeists, and small motorboats. The launch is located in a remote setting, so plan accordingly—overnight parking may not be secure, and amenities are minimal at this primitive facility.

A yellow-marked trail on the north side of the parking area provides additional exploration opportunities for those interested in paddling nearby sections of the Withlacoochee River. For paddlers seeking more developed facilities with amenities like restrooms and picnic areas, the nearby Rutland Park Boat Ramp on SR 44 is a good alternative. The Withlacoochee River in this area is generally suitable for recreational paddling and offers scenic, natural surroundings typical of Florida's central river systems.