ATV Florida Forum

Two weeks ago I went to Croom with my GPS and did a quick run of the points of interest I could remember. I put together a Google Earth map that everyone could use. Here's the map.

(http://www.atvflorida.com/googleearth-croom/croom-googleearthss.jpg)

Here's the Google Earth file for download.

http://www.atvflorida.com/googleearth-croom/croom.kml (http://www.atvflorida.com/googleearth-croom/croom.kml) (right click, choose save as)
Updated: 08/30/05

If you have Google Earth installed, you can simply open the file. If not, download and install it first here: http://earth.google.com/ (http://earth.google.com/)

There are many more points of interest at Croom. Post your GPS coordinates here and I'll add them to the Google Earth map and .kmz file.

Thanks!

I'm ashamed that no one seems to be appreciating your efforts. I appreciate it and now need to go buy a GPS to take advantage of it. Thanks.

thanks mr. bones, il check some of the areas out next time i go

pretty cool. The big jump. Is that the step up that you're referring to?  -Mark

Thats pretty cool.  All I got on the map was marker 6EW though.  Maybe I did something wrong?

It is pretty cool, and I had the same problem you did.  After downloading and opening the file, all I got was marker 6EW

Sorry about that. I saved the file as a KMZ instead of a KML. If you right click and save it, then open it, the new file will work.

I can't get it to work simply by clicking on it. All it does is display the file as text. I'm working with my webhost to try and fix that.

Let me know if you are still having problems with the file.

Your fix worked for me...thanks Mr Bones

Works real good now.  Thanks.

thanks. This is really cool. Believe it or not i'm going to croom this weekend. my friends giving me a pass for no $$$.

The big jump was almost a 10-12ft 1/4 pipe that the lip flattened out. About a year ago I saw some crazy people taking that at high speed and just getting huge air. They would land about 6 ft forward on the top of the jump. When I checked it out a few weeks ago, it seemed to be eroded from the rain. It's still a decent hill climb though. With enough speed some air will be had.

dang, I never knew the place was that big,,,,,I thought it basically ended at the camps towards the back.

maybe I'll go and check it out one of these days.

Id@

Bones you are the man! I think I have seen you out there before. Don't you have the big ATVflorida.com graphic on your trailer? I always go to Ocala now though, hopefully we'll renew our stickers and go check out those spots. If you know of any other jumps that'd be awsome I'll definatly go check them out.

Yeah, that's my trailer. Although I took the big stickers off to avoid problems with my HOA when I moved last year. Each time I go I'll try and find new spots to map out. I'll be going more when the summer's over. I've had enough of the mid day heat!

Whats that track to the East of croom? Or at least on the left hand side while looking at it.

Load Google Earth and click on the locations on the left side. I've added comments  that will expand with a caption on the location.

No the track outside of Croom. It is right along he boundries of it. At least it looks like a track.

Oh that. I forget the guys name, but whoever owns that track has had to keep it private. I remember reading about it in the paper. He was trying to open it to the public but the county wouldn't allow it. It's off limits. There is a nice hilly perch where you can view the whole thing and see some dirt bikes on it. I've never seen an ATV out there.

That is very very interesting, I wonder if I gave him a donation if he'd let me ride it. I have so many cool places to check out now thanks again Mr. Bones.  ;D

Does seem rather large. I've heard so many negative things about Croom and them limiting where you can ride and also there are problems w/ traffic. I want to try it but don't want to spend $50 on something I may never use again. Why in the world don't they just have $10 a day passes or something?

Well 50$ is a yearly pass. But when I first started going there there weren't as many fences and restrictions on where you could ride. It has gone down hill but since it's only about an hour from my house compared to 2 hours to ONF it's quick and easy to just go there and put around. Can't really open it up there. I never get out of 3rd.  :(  -Mark

This map is great.
It has been many years since I have been to croom. Did they move he camp ground?
The last time I was there there was a fence just north of the campground that seperated the hunting area. It looks like they have opened all of that area to ridding now?

The campground hasn't moved. It is fenced in. There's also fences running along the access road to the north of it and OHVs are off limits. A good part of this west/east access road is fenced off the same way.

If you are referring to the area north of the campground and north of the access road, that is open to riding.

Well Mr bones Im sure im not the only one that wants to say thanks for the nice map and im also sure im not the only one thinking, When will the map of Ocala be avilable?

Ocala is all fuzzy, I looked it up a while back. You can see the main roads. That'd be so sweet, we need to start getting the coordinates from all the cool little spots.

Yeah. I'll start a thread about it soon. I don't have a lot coordinates for that area so you guys will have to post them all and I'll add it to the map.

sweet map thank you!!! ;D

Private race track. I have raced and flagged there many years ago.

kool i was there yesterday

Thanks thats soo cool!!!!

Thanks!!!!

We should Really get that Ocala Thread going, it should be a sticky where you can only post if you are posting coordianates so it doesn't get all congested.

Hey I plugged all the coordinates into Mapsource and saved it. If you have a garmin GPS and Mapsourse this will save you alot of work. PM me and I will get it to you. Thanks Mr. Bones. I am going to Croom for the first time in 10 years and this is going to be nice to have.

I've got the 99 dallor Garmin GPS I beleive, what exactly is mapsource? I'm not at home right now so I'm not for sure but I think it is an eTrex or something like that.

All I have to say is thank you. I've been going to Croom for a solid ten years now and back then,"you just had to know where you were" remember? It would be getting late and you wanted to go....and you'd be lost. Remember this was before GPS and we would try to find the Hollywood hills track and it was hit or miss. When I finally found that one way to simple black and white xerox map which didn't tell much. Finally a few years back the first sattelite maps came out and with my friends GPS info which he would scribble down at the craziest times, we tried to do what you've done here. I actually looked at croom on google earth and it was hard to tell what was what but finally, it's here for public consumption. I love Croom. Sometimes, I'll stop and marvel at the beauty of the place. I always see something new. With this map I'll find even more. God, I love this place. Thanks bro, well done. Lanky.

BTW I'll be there this week for new years. Let's hope the firework crowd doesn't keep us up all night. The ranger is telling folks that the ATF will be out with night vision goggles so they mean business and will be pulling passes.

I know might sound kind of dumb but i've searched the site about croom and i just want to know what it is like.  Does it have trails you have to stay on? Or are you free to go where ever. (as long as its not the campground and roads)    Are there speed limits? Are you aloud to ride with a passenger?  Since the yucapan is on lock down I was curious about croom. Thanks!

you can ride where ever you want and theres no speed limit?!  but they dont allow riding passenger

There's a 10 mph limit in camping and parking areas. Majority of the main access road is for cars/trucks only. Helmets required. Like he said, no two up riding.

All other areas are ride at your own risk. Be especially careful on weekends and holidays due to the crowds and watch for other riders at all times.

Mr bones any updates on the Ocala map?

Well, it was a good new years and just as it has been before, the guys with the acetylene in the hefty bags were tossing them in the fire keeping us up all night. I can't believe the idiots lighting fireworks IN A PINE FOREST and not setting it on fire. If that wasn't bad enough, some dumb a@$ LOCKED THE RANGER'S TRUCK IN around midnight and then the ranger decided to shoot a couple of clips at the lock fifty feet from my five year old kid!!!!!
 I know this is an atv website but safety doesn't stop at the trails end. We need to be good to the forest and be fire safe people. I can't believe the ranger. He needs bolt cutters, not bullets.
Anyhow, the next day I was flying up the sand hill on my friends raptor 700 and clipped a root and bounced off a tree. I bent the handelbars with my head (seven stiches) blew out my knee, and tore my rotator cuff when I was thrown nearly twenty feet. I spent five hours in the Brooksvill ER (thanks guys) and I'm going into surgery tomorrow. I wish I had ridden the Banshee instead. Oh well. All in all I love this place but the woop de doos are too much. I want to get a small cat and bulldoze the woops on one side of the peremiter roads so I can open up in pure flats. Peace out "yall, Lanky.

Two weeks ago i went download google earth on my dad's pc
I was looking at my old house down south in hollywood fl
off  sw 32nd ct it's in lake forest area and with pool in my backyard
I can still see it on there.Plus I was looking all areas in port st joe
and carribelle and some of islands i have been.It was so cool
I saw glamis dunes on there. :) ;) 8)

But it's very good tool and I know terra server shows old
areas photograths on places here in mcalpin. 8)

But I did enjoy google earth it's worth download
and copy it to cd-r..  :)

Just want to thank you for this thread. I went to Croom, for first time, a few weeks ago. I was alone and surprised at the size of the place. I decided to buy a GPS and will use it, along with the info. from the map, the next time I go. I'm sure it will make my next ride a better experience. Maybe it will help me keep the wheels pointing down instead of up. :)

Like all laws, they are there because someone did something stupid. Croom use to be 100% open with the exception of the main road that runs along the side of I75. The bikes use to run down the roads by the back parking doing about 60mph. They crossed anywhere they felt like as fast as they wanted too. One day, a girl ran her dirt bike into a car. That girl died.

Croom added restrictions on where you can cross the road and they will give you speeding tickets for riding wrecklessly on those roads. The rest of Croom is still open like it has always been. The restriction only apply to the roads and they should, it's too bad a girl had to die before they realized that w/o restrictions people would get hurt.

The restrictions are only applied to the one road that cars are allowed on. The road that follows along side I75, it then turns west and goes directly across to the camp ground. That is hardly restricted riding.

The park is fun and it is worth the money.

can anyone get me some gps coordinates 4 some of these spots please im goin up this weekend and would like to have some at least before i go up on spring break again


thanks

If you download and install Google Earth, then use the .kml file I created, it will give all the GPS coordinates to you. The links are in the first post.

i have google earth but what is the kml file?

That is the file with all the map locations that are seen in the first post. You have to load it in Google Earth.

o ok i alreadty did that a long time ago... but where on google earth am i going to find the gps corrdinates

ssooo aaa im goin up again in a week or so sooo how bout them gps coordinates?

yyyea goin up tomar... how bout them gps coordinates, im begining to wonder if these spots exist... :-\

As I have said before, the GPS coordinates are provided within the Google Earth program. This is how you find them. Load the KML file, under Places, right click the name, choose edit, click the advanced check box, click the Location tab, the GPS coordinates are right there.

It took many hours to collect these coordinates and set this Google Earth thread up. And no, they are NOT made up.

ok thanks alot thats waht i wanted to know :ThumbsUp.gif

Ok, cool.

I wish Google Earth had an export option, but it doesn't. I was able to import all this data in so that was a lot easier than doing it manually.

Here's the link to Google Earth's support page should anyone else need it in the future.

http://earth.google.com/support

Have fun out there!!

hey buddy ,,,,,,,,how do i get to croom ?    sorry first time in this forum

thank you Mr. Bones that is really cool

yeah i have been to croom and it was awsome and i plane on going back soon!!

[q


is it necessary to wear helmets while u ride at crome ave?










uote author=Mr.BoNeS link=topic=6118.msg93296#msg93296 date=1126795712]
The campground hasn't moved. It is fenced in. There's also fences running along the access road to the north of it and OHVs are off limits. A good part of this west/east access road is fenced off the same way.

If you are referring to the area north of the campground and north of the access road, that is open to riding.
[/quote]

Anyone bashing Croom, please do go somewhere else to ride.  Please don't ruin it for the folks that appreciate the place as much as my family and I do.   

Simply put, if you know how to ride, where to ride when you are there and follow the rules, Croom is awesome..   

What blows my mind is seeing the folks that complain about the whoops blasting down the highway-wide whooped out trails in single file fashion.   These are same guys that feel that riding wheelies on the roads and doing donuts in the campground makes them look cool.   Its not cool and it really shows how little riding talent you have and that you have no respect for this sport.  I call this reckless behavior "riding wrong"

And correct me if I'm wrong but it seems anyone who is "riding wrong" is doing so with way-loud aftermarket exhausts on their machine too..  Your behavior is the main reason we don't have more places to ride, both public and private.

So, if you appreciate Croom as much as my wife, kids and I do please read on for my tips for a great ride at Croom.

How not to miss out on all of the "cherry" trails that are smooth?     You've got to learn to look for the good stuff which is always off the beaten-path.    Granted I ride a bike not a quad but my wife and one of our kids ride a quad so I've got to be aware of that fact when I am leading the way so I don't get them into a spot that's too narrow for the quads to fit.   But even still, there's plenty of riding that is wide enough for a quad to go where it is really smooth.

Ride up on the North end and stay away from Sand Hill at all costs, stay away from the fence lines, stay away from the numbered trails, they are all where the whoops are...   

You'll be amazed how few people you'll see too.  We've been there when the campground is full and all the day use areas are full and the Sand Hill area looks like an ant farm under a heat lamp and when we go up on the North end away from the edges of the property and get away from the day use areas we don't see anyone!   SPREAD OUT FOLKS!!  :-)

When you are riding and it gets rough, slow down and start looking for a trail that is parallel to the direction you are traveling..    Sometimes 20 feet away in either direction is a smooth trail that gets you to where you want to go with both your kidneys in-tact.

If you are forced onto a whopped trail section, ride the edges..  When you are on a bike this is easier than on a quad.   Just don't ride down the center of the trail.

One more thing..   I must defend the park rangers too.   These folks are very nice and ever-so helpful to those in need.   I've never seen them hassle anyone.   As a matter of fact I think they are overly forgiving when they politely ask time and time again for that "select" set of people to follow the rules.  I've seen them go out of their way to help those in need and to make sure we all have the best experience possible.   

Man youre awesome :ThumbsUp.gif

Ive always wanted to say the same thing youve said but I never knew how to put it.  I know exactly how you feal, in everything youve said.  Very well put  :Clap.gif and welcome to ATV Florida!

i second the above , I was in different clubs and in different state(tx,md,etc)
and its the same, we always complain about what we have and never praise it. my sister lives in cape coral her backyard was next to i think its called yucapan and the day i conviced her to get a atv they closed it down.she drives to tampa(where i live) all the time to go ride at CROOM , we love the place and are very thankful of having a place so close to ride!!!i went to big scrub and did not find that much difference(whoops),the area was amazingly large but still nice place to ride!!as mention before there are very nice area to ride at croom,my wife,stepdaughter,and myself love the hills,the parts graveyard,open pit,etc and by the way they have a parts
store at the entrance to the state park!LETS SEE THE POSITIVE OF THE AREA WE HAVE AND REMEMBER MANY DIFFERENT PEOPLE READ THIS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD INCLUDING LOCAL STATE OFFICIALS THAT MIGHT BE LOOKING AT OUR NEEDS AS OFFROAD RIDERS!!!!i have seen post where people from other country ask how to get to Croom and other areas to ride
so have fun a tell others about our areas,links,etc and REMEMBER IF YOU DONT LIKE SOMETHING GET INVOLVED AND PUT YOUR TWO CENT IN!!!!JR.

ttt

Its always on the top  :P

Mr.  Bones,
Edit is not an option when I right click on the name, and there is no Location tab?  Shoot!  I am going tonight, and really could have used that list of coordinates.  Does anyone have the list they could post?

Thanks

I know its a little late for you, but here it goes.

Croom Entrance Gate
28°31'38.32"N
82°14'16.17"W

Sand Hill Entrance
28°31'48.73"N
82°14'20.90"W

Extreme Hilly Area - Caution
28°33'51.71"N
82°14'34.27"W

Flat Track
28°33'39.68"N
82°14'52.85"W

Scenic View
28°33'49.20"N
82°14'38.94"W

Campground Entrance
28°33'50.70"N
82°15'3.22"W

Marker 8EW
28°32'53.94"N
82°14'17.22"W

Mini Track
28°33'58.00"N
82°15'4.68"W

Day Use Area #1 Entrance
28°31'50.23"N
82°14'17.12"W

Restrooms
28°33'58.59"N
82°14'42.65"W

Grave Site
28°32'54.72"N
82°14'24.54"W

Camp Entrance
28°33'43.68"N
82°14'55.56"W

Rest Rooms
28°33'47.76"N
82°15'0.42"W

Kids Track
28°33'51.12"N
82°15'1.86"W

Mud Pit
28°33'49.56"N
82°14'48.72"W

Water Faucet
28°33'58.74"N
82°14'38.22"W

Big Jump
28°33'45.24"N
82°14'46.02"W

Camp Entrance
28°33'47.16"N
82°14'53.88"W

Rest Rooms
28°33'52.20"N
82°14'56.28"W

Mud Pit
28°34'3.42"N
82°14'37.62"W

Mud Pit
28°33'55.43"N
82°14'53.15"W

Mud Pit
28°34'1.78"N
82°14'53.44"W

Mud Pit
28°34'38.88"N
82°14'25.86"W

Mud Pit
28°34'29.94"N
82°14'25.86"W

Mini Tracks
28°34'44.10"N
82°14'37.32"W

Mini Track
28°34'50.52"N
82°14'31.26"W

Marker 11NS
28°34'57.12"N
82°14'26.34"W

Laurain Gulch
28°34'41.70"N
82°14'33.66"W

Restrooms
28°31'52.53"N
82°14'21.26"W

Parts Graveyard
28°34'58.02"N
82°14'37.44"W

Marker 12EW
28°34'1.38"N
82°14'7.08"W

Marker 11N
28°35'8.10"N
82°14'19.50"W

Marker 6EW
28°32'16.26"N
82°14'40.80"W

Hilly Area
28°34'7.80"N
82°13'50.70"W

Pond
28°34'6.84"N
82°13'52.68"W

Palmetto Trail
28°34'40.56"N
82°13'33.84"W

Mini Track
28°33'40.80"N
82°14'31.32"W

Donut Hole
28°32'16.02"N
82°14'39.84"W

Parking Area
28°34'6.42"N
82°14'25.14"W

Kids Track
28°33'56.34"N
82°14'30.18"W

Parking Area
28°34'1.02"N
82°14'12.18"W

Street Sign
28°35'3.66"N
82°14'33.18"W

For anyone who uses MapSend Topo, here's the file you can use to import it.

http://www.atvflorida.com/googleearth-croom/MapSendTopo-Croom.wpt (http://www.atvflorida.com/googleearth-croom/MapSendTopo-Croom.wpt)

See ya this wekend. We'll roast a turkey for ya.

...and please no fireworks. Keep it civilized people and pick up beer cans and bottles. Don't ruin it for others.

it works goood...thanks

Do you have a Icon for the parts graveyard?  Keep it a secret

BradG47...........I could not have said it better. Thanks

Croom is a fun place to go with or without the family. We camp there often and love it. Although since my daughter has taken up MX racing, we get up there a little less.

BUT if you complain, go somewhere else and let us people that enjoy it, enjoy it more!!!

Don

Well I agree that if people think they are cool trying to show off they are wrong.  I do infact ride wheelies on the back parking area road to merely practice on my new bike.  I do them to have fun trying and it doesn't hurt falling in flat sugar sand.  I mostly would make an embarrassment when I fall and have to run after my ATV but its funny. But then again you see people riding wheelies and trying no footers and whatever else.  And another good point the people that complain about the whoops seriously don't know how to ride over them.  Croom is by far the best place to ride.  A lot of people from many differnet states say that it's by far the best riding area south of North Carolina.  There are no riding areas in the Carolinas besides TNT in South Carolina which isn't even a quarter of the size of Croom.  I think its one of the best if not the best riding spot on the Eastern states.

I agree that Croom is a great place to ride.  My two daughters and I started riding this year on utility quads and have been there 4 or 5 times now.  We generally run 10 to 15 mph cruising through the woods following whichever of the MANY trails that are there.  There is every type of terrain available in Florida to ride on there and most of the trails are shaded by trees.  Surprisingly there is quite a bit of wildlife there and we have seen at least 3 or 4 deer every trip we've taken (my daughters really enjoy that).  We always load up and head away from the parking (north lot) as soon as we can and while we may hear riders near we usually only come close to a few.  I don't agree that the North is the best place as we've found many nice wooded trails through out the park.  There are some nasty mud holes and some very hilly areas.  The last time out I noticed they have groomed some of the numbered trails and sport quad riders have cut in quite a few new woods trails that are not whooped up.  I suggest at least one GPS in your group so when you find those favorite spots and trails you can log and come back to them later, plus you can ride late in the day and be assured to head straight for your parking spot when its time.  I hope Croom doesn't go to designated trails as ONF has or we'll be stuck with whooped up trails.

Have fun and enjoy the riding as often as you can.
Stan

Here's a link to our recent CROOM adventure pic's a few weeks ago. It's the best place I've ridding in years. Not just flat Florida trails.  The pits were amazing!

http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8AaMWbVm4bNGkX  (http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8AaMWbVm4bNGkX)

me and couple of my frieds are goin to croom this weekend was wondering if I can get registered to get in with a bill of sale only. I purchased my bike recently

i used to have google earth till  it screwed up my pc.

went to Croom today it was nice like always when thres no one there.  There were 3 guys on dirtbikes that rode so hard especially the 1.  &0mph around the pit taking the turns flawlessly and hitting all these jumps.  I swear this guy had to be pro or close to it.  He was #68 and his last name was 4 or 5 letters long i'm thinking supercross lites.   Anyways it was so hot and humid we were praying for rain, we finally got it and it was nice.  Cooled ya down and eliminated the dust. :) tis nice

what do they do with the money they charge has anything been improved out there in the past?

Any milage for the  perimiter trail??

Just a quick thanks for the great thread!!!

Ok, I'm switching this thread up a bit. Its for maps and now, pics, and reviews of Croom.

I'll start off with a Croom report with a photo of the southern pit taken yesterday, 03/17/08.

(http://www.atvflorida.com/files/croom031808.jpg)

The southern open area is considered a pretty good indication of the overall conditions of the entire park. I would call it mostly dry with a little water and mud here and there. So if you are heading there this weekend, this is what you'll expect.

Do you still have to pay for the year pass? Is there a day pass or weekend pass?

no a yearly sticker but every month it goes down lik $5 till it gets to like $35 and it stays there all year
they r raising the prised next july

THAT"S WHAT I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW
here is peice of a story.....


Withlacoochee Raked In $1.1 Million Last Year

Since permits became mandatory in 2002, the Croom Motorcycle Area has become a major source of revenue for the Florida Division of Forestry.

Depending on which time of year they are purchased, permits for motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles can cost up to $50 per machine.

For fiscal year 2006-2007, the state collected $792,215 from those who used the Croom Motorcycle Area, according to figures obtained by the Division of Forestry.

That does not include the fees for Withlacoochee State Forest overnight campers who pay for access to the motorcycle area.

The state park brought a total of more than $1.1 million in revenue during the last fiscal year, according to the Division of Forestry.

Croom Report 04/15/08.

Conditions are perfect right now. Dry, but not too dusty. If you want mud, you can find it.

Southern Pit, photo taken 04/14/08.

(http://www.atvflorida.com/files/croom041508.jpg)

Here's a nice muddy spot just north of the main road before the last "No ATVs allowed" sign leading to the campground.

(http://www.atvflorida.com/files/croom041508-2.jpg)

Hi everyone.  New to the forum.  Please bare with me as I may ask some stupid questions.  My husband and I ride sportbikes but we just got a little 50cc 4 wheeler for our son we don't know too much about them but we are learning really quick.  My boy does not want to get off of it.  Its a suzuki 50.  We want to take him to Croom but here are my questions:

1.  Since its only a 50 cc he doesn't need to have any sort of tag or anything correct?

2.  Is there a specific area just for younger kids?  he is eight.

I have heard there are two fenced in areas for the younger children but just want to make sure its true.

Thanks for any information you can pass on.  :)

Hello and welcome to the site. You'll need to register it at the gate like any other quad for use in the park. Yes there is a kids area. I was looking at it last Monday but forgot to snap a few photos. They recently enlarged the area and split it into to parts. One for younger kids and one for beginners over 16+. Its surrounded with a wooden fence. The area is located on the north side of the park south of the main road before the bathrooms. Its off of the road a little bit so if you go on the weekend it might be hard to see because of people parking in front of it. If you can't find it, just ask someone and they will point you in the right direction.

Have fun up there and make sure to take some pics to post on the site.

Thank you for your help!!!!  I will post up pics as soon as i get some. 

I haven't been to Croom in two weeks but I know it has hardly rained in the area. So expect it to be pretty dusty.

How right you are!!!! It was super dusty today!!!!!!

Croom Report 05/13

This place has completely dried up. The southern pit was a swirling dust bowl. There was so much gusty wind there on Monday, its starting to smooth out the whole pit. Great for ATV riders though! The mud that was in the center here is now dried up and turning into a hardened mass of earth

There was nobody there yesterday so you can't really see the dust in the photo. If there was, the photo would be a big ploom of dust and it would be hard to see any riders. If you are on a trail with a group and not the leader, wear a dust mask and good goggles. Ride carefully as it will be hard to see, too.

Southern Pit, photo taken 05/12/08.

(http://www.atvflorida.com/files/croom051208.jpg)

I've got a question about Croom and it may be dumb...... I know you're only allowed to ride 1 person to a quad but say me and my girlfriend and a friend want to go out and take turns or something, is that allowed? Or does there have to be 1 quad for each person?

You are certainly able to take turns.  :ThumbsUp.gif

You can take turns riding with as many people as you want, just no two-up riding with quads that aren't designed for it (which is the majority of them).

Sweet! I know the yearly passes start in June and are prorated but should I wait until June or just get it now?

You can buy one now, but you will have to get a renewal in June. I am pretty sure it is a prorated amount.

Check your PM's  ;)

Here are some pics from out last trip to Croom on 4-26-08 it was really dry and dusty but we still had a great time!!!

(http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u260/bom73/Croom%202-26-08/DSC00702.jpg)

Nice photo! You look like you are about to clobber the camera guy.

NICE PIC!...I hope you didn't kill the photographer.....LOL

Mr. Bones reply was blocked by the picture...so i did not see his post...but it appears we share the same concern for that poor photographer...........And that is a SWEEEET pic.....LOL

Thanks but the pic is a little deceiving. It is actually a wall we were going up so you get more lift than distance. I want to get a GPS to plot all the spots as i always get lost when i am out there and can never find the same place twice.

Here is a sideshow of the pics from out last trip... can't wait to go back again.

CLICK ON THE PIC!!!
(http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u260/bom73/th_MOV00706.jpg) (http://s170.photobucket.com/albums/u260/bom73/?action=view&current=MOV00706.flv)

(http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u260/bom73/Croom%202-26-08/DSC00722.jpg)

(http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u260/bom73/Croom%202-26-08/DSC00747.jpg)

Hi im new to this site and riding in Florida...I am going to croom and need to know if I can make it down that dirt rode with my Highlander on 22s w/ lo-pros.  I been there once before in a f-150 and it was pretty rough. Help me out here I wanna go ridin'!

you shouldn't have to much trouble with the low pros, they keep the road pretty smooth.

if your worried about it just park at the front pit

the front pit is where everyone is. I need to be able to make it all the way to the back.  But I think Im just being nervous seeing how its $250 a tire. Thanx for yalls input.

we are heading out there tomm.
last weekend the road wasn't that bad from what i heard. but it doesn't take long to tear it up!!
you'll be fine if you go slow and easy.

theyv'e been getting some big storms lately.the road seems the bumpiest right after they grade it because of all the loose rocks.

hey i am also new to the site and i was just wondering how does it work out there do i need to bring my title or bill of sale to be able to ride there and also what kind of gear besides my eye wear and helmt do i need

New here, sorta.  Lurker mostly.  Cool map, def gonna check this place out!  See ya'll out there.

Thanks. See you on the trails!

Hey, would like to know how the enforcment of the new age law is going at Croom. Are they asking for certification before entering the park for kids 16 and under? Thanks in advance..

I thought I'd run into trouble with the new laws and all thats changing recently,  but when I renewed my bikes at croom,  they didnt seem to be enforcing the new rules at all.  I even reregistered my kids bikes with just the vin #'s again.  We go up to camp once a month for a weekend,  and in between a couple times a month for the day,  not once have we been asked to show proof of certification.   Anyways,  I sure hope ppl start goin ridin again,  its been so empty lately. 

Croom Report 03/31/09. Photo taken 03/30/09.

Conditions are dry, dry, dry. Even after the rain on Saturday. Only a few people were there on Monday so it was a great time. The ATV fee for registration drops to $35 April 1 and lasts until June 30.

(http://www.atvflorida.com/files/croom033109.jpg)

I took a 360 view of Croom in HD! Click the HD button in the player controls once it starts. You can double click it to go to the YouTube page and view it full screen.

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TL4c4rwCn_s

A rider hits a jump in the southern sand hill area.

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LlUOh1yYev8

Wow mr bones you must have been there on a wensday no ones riding slow day I like croom not to crazy of the front pit great videos

It was a Monday. Just about the only day I can get to go out there.

Here's another movie I made at Croom.

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V8i15ULCUzY

Just got back from riding at Croom today. There's water back in the southern pit. The rest was sandy and a little dusty.

More pics.

That pic of the quad sitting by itself is awesome, those trails are so much fun for some reason.  I don't know why I get such a kick out of the walls on the sides lol.


I attached my favorite pic of Croom... took it a few months ago.  I like sitting at the top of the pit and watching everyone ride around...  Peaceful.

Thanks. The clouds in your pic look pretty cool. I sit up there sometimes, too. It's a nice little perch.

what's it cost to get in this weekend?  Do I have to pay 35 bucks just to ride one day?  Seems like it would be discounted in June.  Is there an official contact number for Croom?

352-754-67777 m-f 8-5

the 35 is discounted, its normally 50 but went up to 60.00 for the year.

I just found out my wife's big bear 400 is too big for croom? It weighs 600lbs? For real?

Don't worry about that. Nobody is going to check.

have you guys seen smaller 4x4s like the yamaha big bear there before?

I've seen many utility style quads up there.
they don't check any of the sizes or weights.

I went to Croom today. I expected to see lot of people since it was a holiday, but it was like any other Monday, like a ghost town. Here's a few pics.

I was there on Sunday and it was pretty packed.  Lots of traffic on A Trail. 

That's cool. I forgot to mention, the next prorate date for a vehicle sticker is October 1. It drops to $50.

hiya,Im a newbie to the Croom thread ;D I have a question. I see where it says that you cannot have another rider with you. We have three girls (please pray for us..lol) Our 13 year old just got her first quad and is loving riding. Our 10,and 8 year old have been riding with us until we can afford a bike for the next in line. My question is...... does this mean they cannot ride on ours with us? We are not going to be flying down a trail or anything,just relaxing and allowing the oldest to become more comfortable with riding. Thanks in advance!!...Ali

Hi Ali. You are correct. They are not able to ride with you on your quad. They do not allow anyone riding 2 up. See you out there!!

unless the quad is made for two people from the manufacturer. which a very few quads are.

Hello, I was wondering if anyone could tell me if the gates are being locked at sunset? I plan on making the drive up from Broward and was wondering when or if they close the gates. I have been there before and they were open after sunset but the last time I was there they were closed. Any info appreciated. Thanks

call  the division of forestry 352 754 6777
they are the ones who runs it! 

Hi everyone. I am from NJ but like to spend 4 or 5 weeks in Florida during the winter months. My 1st trip this winter will be for Christmas and New years weeks. I normally just bring my Harley. But, I picked up a Polaris Scrambler and NJ does not have many spots to ride. I will be staying in Beverly Hills. I saw Croom and ONF on the net . Where should I go? I don't know all the out of state rules and will be alone. Thanks Tony

croom is the sh*t. going to try to get up there when i can manage to get some time off.well worth the money.

Hey guys,

Im new to the site, and i have never ridden at croom.  I understand that there was an old garage where one can keep the bikes overnight, however I have been told that the garage is now closed?  If so, where is there a safe place to leave the bikes if you are to stay overnight.

The only one I've heard about was at OAS, the shop just outside the gate. Give them a call and see if they still do that. But, I don't have the number. Sorry.

oas closed down, if you go don't park them in the parking lot of the days in, there has  been many people get there stuff stolen from there.

That sucks. I guess that's why their website is gone.

Going to CROOM for the first time this Saturday.....Any tips?

cal me dude we will talk some more

i was just checking croom website and they say the four wheeler can not weigh over 500 lbs my renegade w\o mudzillas on it weighs 606  what do u do?

they don't weight them there!

HI all going to try to get to croom next week. Probably on a week day. Never been there let me know if anyone is going to be there. Thanks

Hi I going this weeken to croom for first time any tips?

what day will you be going. I am thinking of going out there sat. I have to check out my bike this week and make sure its all good to go. if you do go though look for trucks with the Tampabayridindirty.com stickers and they will be gla to show you around and ride with you.

I hope to be there sat to ride

Thank you yes I will be there sat

Here's an interesting article about Croom from the St Pete Times, Nov 3, 1973. They refer to it as the Buttgenbach Mines Recreation Area.

http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=n8YNAAAAIBAJ&sjid=JHMDAAAAIBAJ&dq=brooksville%20florida%20croom%20track&pg=4804%2C2364442 (http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=n8YNAAAAIBAJ&sjid=JHMDAAAAIBAJ&dq=brooksville%20florida%20croom%20track&pg=4804%2C2364442)

How is Croom these days?  Its been awhile since the family has
gone up.  We quit because of the people.  We are thinking about
giving it a try soon. I hear the OAS closed down.  Thats a big lose
it was nice to have the bike shop right there. Any in put will help.

Croom is great as always! OAS is now under new ownership and its called Croom Pit Stop.

   Give it a shot you will keep coming back.  I ride with friends and family out their and its great, have been riding since 1997 at Croom and its just gets better each year. 

Thanks for the replies. How much are the passes now?
I know the first of July it changes again.  Also do
they lock the entry gate at nite? I think thats why alot
of people stopped going to the Big Scrub. I don't like
to feel lock in or traped.

I hear Croom will be closed for the month of August for paving the main road that runs from front to back. Can anyone confirm?

When I asked at the gate two weeks ago this is what they told me.    They had plans for June, that was pushed off to July, now it looks like August.  They said they will try to post it at the gate house to give folks some warning.

Thanks for the heads up!!!  I hope those of you that freaquent Croom can keep gettin updates and passing on the info?  I know from the posts on this forum that some riders go there on a weekly basis and any info you guys can give us is greatly appreciated!!!

Is it crowed on holidays.It used to be you couldn't get on camp site
on a holiday weekend. Is the poor economy keeping people away?

I was there one weekend years ago with over 1500 attendees that weekend and DIDNT have any issues with too many people on the trails, parking was tight but those were the good ol'e days!!!    Crowded nowadays at croom is pretty good conditions. Talk to the rangers, they are pretty cool if they get to know you and of course if you follow the rules.

Have they started working on the main road yet?

They made it wider and graded it but no asphalt.

Can you ride tandem at Croom on a standard atv?  I don't see anything on their web site that says you can't.  I'd like to take my wife for a ride and I don't have a two person atv.

I think if you stay outta sight you'll be OK but NO you cannot ride 2 up unless the atv is designed for it by the manufacturer. I am not telling you to do it though! your on your own with this one.

They enforce the rules, if the unit is a one person, its one person only.

whats up with the gate closing at 5 pm?    I saw it on another website and it said gate now closes at 5 pm

I've watched a ranger give a warning for it, not 20 mins later the same people were ridin double and caught again. He then issued a ticket for it, the ranger said if they are caught again they will lose there sticker.

they have a sign up at the gate now and I think it said 6pm. there is a ranger on premisis that will let you out if your late but repeat violaters will lose their stickers!!!

Thanks for the update.

i thought croom was more for dirt bikes have they changed our is there an area designated for just atv

is anyone ever gonna groom some parts of croom, its all whoops so not much speed can be achieved, and sometimes its just not any fun its very bumpy..thnx

I was there 2 weeks ago and was runnin 5th wide open on some of the groomed trails!!!!!

perhaps you should go pro and get paid for your talents

Try S trail it is very smooth

any new pics of the paved road at CROOM???

Was riding today and was going to but did not.   Its SWEAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!    The truck and trailer did not get shook to pieces.

does the new paved road go all the way to the campground?    how far does it go?

no, to the first turn.

I guess thats better than nothing? :D, I was hoping they would've gone to the camp ground ::)
I hope they continue, can you guys ask to see if this is it or will improvements continue? Whats next?  Is there a plan for 2011?  can we be kept informed????????

any pics of the new paved entrance road??   can someone take some pics???

can I get some pics?

Havent been there since,but its just black top from the booth to the end of the road.

I downloaded the points from the kml file an a big THANKS was wondering if any one has the trails on a gps file for Croom and ONF

Was thinking same thing gps file would be great

http://www.tampabayridindirty.com/forum/showthread.php?t=2455 (http://www.tampabayridindirty.com/forum/showthread.php?t=2455)

Thanks !! ;D

This is fantastic.  I think the sunken trail is called Laurain Gulch.  Now I think I know where to look.  We found this ditch thingy once and can't find it again.  It appears we might have been looking in the wrong area.  Thanks.

the sunken trail is not Laurine Gulch the sunken trail is West of the main pit

Take the trail to the left on the bathroom in the front parking area, think its E and C trail.  You go about 1/8 of a mile and the well road trail to your left is the one which leads to the trench!  There are no signs or makers so its easy to miss.  Good luck. :ThumbsUp.gif

Has anybody been out there lately? How crowded is it on the weekends? I bet it's hot out there!

Kookin's more like it!!!!!!!!!!

Croom usually is never crowded, especially since the economy tanked.

What is with the no atv's over 500lbs?

Never had any troubles & my wheeler is well over that, nothing was said about the mud tires either!!

Are they strict on kids under 16? I want to take my 14yo so he can ride his atv also.

Not sure Sully.  I've only been to croom a couple times & my son didn't go.  He just did an online atv safty coarse so we can go ride ONF.   

I had my son do the on line safety course too. Hope that is good enough for them. I tried to call them but got no answer.

They don't seem to enforce it much. My quad weighs 630 pounds with out me on it and i have never had any one say any thing. and i have had some of the rangers stand by my machine and talk to us

They are pretty easy going as long as they have on a helmet and goggles  and don't race up and down the roads.

Thanks guys, I'm going to give it a try this week.

I hope you & your son enjoy the ride & have a great time Sully!!!   Thanks for chimming in
Thunderdually!

Had a great ride with my son last week. No problems with him riding there. Look forward to going back. Quick note, they told me they are closing gates at 6pm until further notice. Budget issues I guess. Thanks for the info guys.

Did you find the old abandoned mine/pit?  Glad you both had a good time!!!

Glade to hear you and your son had a good time at Croom. If your interested you can download a Google Earth map that shows all the lettered trails and also has photos of different parts of the park plus points of interest. You can get it here  http://www.tampabayridindirty.com/forum/showthread.php?t=2455. (http://www.tampabayridindirty.com/forum/showthread.php?t=2455.) Just save the zip file to either your desktop or a folder unzip and click on the KML file and it will bring Croom up in Google Earth, You must have Google earth installed.

I gotta crew together to do a trip in a week or two to croom!!! <nanaparty> <nanaparty>    I cant wait   Croom is awesome!!!!!!!<nanaparty>

Too Hottt

4 forty is full of excuses , its always too much of somethin (too hot,too cold,too wet, too dry,too muddy, too dusty, too sunny,too cloudy,too sandy,too windy,too far,etc.,etc.,etc.)      

There is never a bad time to ride, post up when your going to be out there.

thats exactly the way I feel!!!!!!!      I'll let you know when we are goin ;)

I heard they shut down the camp ground and that they are only opened 3 days a week.
How true is this? Has anyone else heard this story?

Yes, this is true. Did not get the full story but, due to "cut backs" the campground is temporarily closed. Riding is open 8-6 closed Monday & Tuesday. This information was given to me by the ranger that answered my call Monday 8-29-11  :'(

I belive its tuesday and wensday.

I really think they screwed up when they raised the camping rates and the so call camp host (what a butt) entered into the picture.
Croom was a cash cow for the state until they got greedy. I paid $80.00 a year per bike (4) and $12.00 a nite to camp. But then they raised it to $24.00 a nite. If they had left everything the way they were for a lot of years, the state would still have there cash cow. But when they was charging $55.00 per bike we figured they made about $450,000.00 is sticker sales in one year, not including the $12.00 per nite per camp site. That was a lot of money the state just gave up because of their own greed. Put Croom back to the was it was and start making money again.
This is just my opinion.

i agree with the above!We went to ocala and found a rv by hog valley loop thats $27.50 a day and has swimming pool,baths,etc and this is a private own camp ground.

Croom is charging $80/year for a vehicle sticker?

$60.00

Yeah, that's what I was thinking. If you went every weekend, that's $1.15 per bike for 52 weekends a year.

monday and tuesday are like the only days i can go....

Went up Labor Day and the road to the campground was chained off.  The sticker was 60 bucks and for a holiday it was a lite crowd.  They are closed on Tue and Wensdays.   

Still $60.00 a year is a lot of money when you can't camp. I can't afford
the gas for a day trip when I live 70 miles 1 way away. What is the deal
with shutting down the camp ground any ways?

I just bought my croom pass for the year.  If anyone wants to go riding, holler at me.  Most of my days off are during the week

You cant CAMP at CROOM anymore WHY ?????  :'(

We talk to the front gate, the campground will open as soon as a live in ranger is hired,as the last ranger resigned!Once the ranger is hired,the campground will open up and most likely will be 7 days a week!Should be soon!

These budget cuts are messing with my riding...  >:(

Did they tell you when the ranger is hired they are going to open again on Tue and Wed because they are closed totally these days?

Post up a few days in advance I will ride with you. From time to time I can make it out on Mondays.

they said the campground would be open most likely 7 days a week.

This is really good news hope it happens soon

That's great news, we love to camp and ride at Croom. Been doing it
for almost 15 years. It's the best. Hope the camp host is better than
the last one. He was never there, until you got ready to leave. Then
he would always find something we did wrong. So away ways, ;D
Yea on the reopening of the camp ground ;)

Why do I get the feeling them closing the campground is part of a plan to discourage people from visiting Croom. Then, when the attendance drops more they will close it altogether.  I hope this is not the case!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :dunno.gif

Good news CROOM got a ranger and should be in opening the campgruond mid oct as per the  ranger!Went there today and meet the new ranger i think her name is Misty.She seemed pump up about the new job!Hope all goes well!!!

the new ranger name is Mitzy and i gave talked to the head ranger and gave him this web site and he is going to be posting some updates soon Still the trails are wooped out on the south end.

A few weeks ago I ran the B and C trail on the south end and it was nice, fresh dozzer grooming. :ThumbsUp.gif

official CROOM to open this coming weekend for camping-weekend only-later when they have a host the entire week!!!!!

I have a question about this place called Croom. In order to ride there what is required for the atv's. Do I need them to be registered or can I just have the bill of sale? Do I need flags for them? last question what is the price in November (late)? Thanks!!

They say you need them to be registered this seems to be a matter of who is at the gate I have had just a bill of sale and got a sticker but that might not always work so I would suggest you get the registration.  There are no flags needed kids under 16 are supposed to have completed a atv safety course never been asked about that but it is in the guidelines for the park.  I am also wondering on reduced prices as the year goes on does anyone have a price schedule?

Thanks

JUST PURCHASED A RZR-4 CAN I TAKE OUT THE TRAILS AT CROOM?

no!!!!! :'(

TY, FOR THE INFO - IS THERE ANY PLACE THAT YOU KNOW THAT I CAN GO RIDE?

the Motoplex,L-cross,devilsgardenmudclub,redneckyachtclub,TCR,muddmuckers,and dirtyfootadventures (when they open again)

Rancho if you are brave!

I am also wondering on reduced prices as the year goes on does anyone have a price schedule?

Oct 1st stickers went down to 50 bucks I am not sure when the next pro-rate date is but the price will be 45 bucks.

Thanks KFX400 NPR for that information. I will probably have to call there when it gets closer to the time I go. They said this place is one of the best places to ride. I live in South Florida to many places to ride down here. I lived here all my life back in the days there use to be mad places to ride. Miramar on University Drive the county has that property now. Over by Sun Life Stadium in sugar sand area. Holy Lands, Hidden Lake, etc... Well its traveling time Hope gas goes down in price too. Like I said thanks again KFX400 NPR. I'm also glad for this forum and many others like it. Ride Hard!!

July 1- September 30 – FL Resident $60.00- Out of State Resident $100.00
October 1 –December 31 – FL Resident $50.00- Out of State Resident $90.00
Jan1-March 30 – FL Resident $40.00- Out of State Resident $80.00
April 1-June 30 – FL Resident $30.00- Out of State Resident $70.00
I just got this off http://www.croommotorcyclearea.com/ (http://www.croommotorcyclearea.com/) I don't how accurate this is but like I said I will call soon

Croom is one of the best places in Florida to ride to bad your so far away I am only 45 minutes so day trips are not bad and I know what you are saying about gas.

Heading out there Friday let me know if anyone is going I am bringing like 4 friends and my son I will give a full report when i get back trail conditions and park overall.

Trails are whooped whooped whooped, I was there today.

Thats exactly why I won't go there!! Can't see how its one of the best places to ride in
Florida. Rather go to ONF or one of the private pay parks or even Rancho, 5A, before going back there!!!!

Even with the whoops there is some great places to ride on the north end of the park.  I like to do the hill climbs toward the middle just north of the back restroom area. Croom is also close so I do not burn 50 bucks of gas to go and get back.   Rancho is way to wet you need a submarine. My favorite is MotoPlex but its so far. Never been to Dirty Foot or 5A.  ONF its been years since I was their and that place was whooped out.

You may want to give ONF a try now. The only trail that had whoops in it was Longleaf north of
the campgrounds.  The only trail there i haven't been on yet is Wiregrass.

OK here is my review just got back first time this season.

Let me start out by saying the new Ranger lady is great to deal with super nice and geting our stickers was a breeze and she was very helpful and the park should be open 7 days a week with camping by Thanksgiving.

The trail conditions were not terrible but they were not as groomed as normal a little whooped out but now that she is getting things going in a few weeks everything should be groomed and ready to go.

We had a great day out there lots of fun and I think things at croom are heading in the right direction.

That's great news.

OK y'all... gonna be out there at Croom this Sunday. We park in the back..day riding area. Either behind the pavillion or in the lot next to it. DK Blu over Gld F-150 4D, Whi box trlr, TBRD decal in the back window.  Gonna mostly be a slower family day, with some hard riding mixed in. See y'all there!!

what is this talk about camping during the weekend only???? i was there a short while back and stayed during the week.

The entire park is closed on Tue and Wed's due to budgit cuts.  The rangers said it will be open 7 days a weeks by Thanks Giving once again.  There was a time over the summer the campground was totally closed it just started to open on weekends not to long ago.

thank you. april was my last visit. i am planing on saturday. will it be tough to get a camp site? what do you think.

With the weather it will be hit or miss you may get lucky.

Beware of new Nazi at Croom!

Went to Croom today and as always had a great time. There was a few new Fl. Division of Forestry personnel on site and all where just outstanding except for the new Nazi. There is a crusty old man I saw for the first time today and he is off the chain. Went through the gate and he was like a Nazi gate man. I can live with this I understand there are rules. The issue I have is he bragged about how many people he had nailed for violations this weekend. He can keep that shiz to himself, it was like he was on a power trip and was getting off on self gratification for making people miserable like himself.
Then the wife said watch he will be in the back running a Mobile check point. Well she was dead on. I saw him in the back on foot in the middle of the road by the day use bathrooms flagging folks down. He appeared to be in heaven by making others miserable.

Well I recall reading an old book called Animal Farm. one thing about this book was the motto, Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely. This guy fits that mold.

Beware my friends make sure when you go through the Mobile check point you have you papers in order OR you may whined up in Stalag 13.

WTF whats a mobile check point???  Papers in order what papers the new ranger chick that lives there said that a title is not even required until next year and did not give me any hassle at the gate was really cool.  I would talk to her if you go back and have a issue shes the head one that lives there now and does not seem to be a ball buster at all she wants to get sticker sales up and make the park friendly.

That guy might have been working the front gate the last time i got my sticker.  He wanted to see proof of owner ship, either a tittle or registration & drivers licence. Even looked to make sure i had the green sticker on the bike. A real by the book PITA!! Sure sounds like the same guy. Told me i needed to carry them whenever i ride there.

Can someone please clear some things up for me.

#1 Title.
 -Why would someone need a title. People who finance bikes won't ever see a title until the last payment is recieved.

#2 green sticker
 - I understand that this means it is registered.. My VIN number is the number that would be associated with this, why can they not look this up through a program? What if you are a racer (a good % of racers practice out there) and have different plastics from who knows what, but you have to remove the sticker to place it on your new plastics? Dumb.

I never had these problems with Croom, and sometimes I think people are making stuff up.

My bikes are now long paid for, but I know I bought a bike and brought it to croom the next day. It was a bike I took a loan out for. I had no title. How can they do that to people?

I have never had a problem getting my permit for my quads. I have an enclosed trailer and they have never even asked me to open the doors. Only thing I have ever had to show them was my Vin Numbers and my drivers license.   :)

normally I don't stop at the gate just wave as I go by, not now they stop you and verify you have your stickers now, when I was there not to long ago waiting for someone to get there sticker, some guy came thru with and enclosed and they made him open it up so they could see the stickers.

I am not making this stuff up.  I have been going to Croom since 1996 and have seen many changes, from no rules to rules which I have no issue with. The staff has always been great there in the last 15 years but this guy is not customer friendly.  There is a way to treat people and not to treat people and in my opinion be needs to go to sensitivity training.   Oh yes they are checking Croom stickers and Green stickers. I had a trailer of 4 quads and he was ready to climb over the two in the back to get to the two in the front but is crotchety old body was not able to traverse the rear two quads.

No other issues with anyone else working at the park but, the crotchety old man, so I will attempt to contact her because this guy is bad for business! :'(

Oh and if you run the check point or do not have your papers in order Schlitz will send you to the Stalag! >:(

Those days are long gone, just wait if the old man is at the gate you will see.

All I can say to the people who think some of us are making this stuff up have been lucky enough to have not come across this guy.  I will explain this again. Tittle or registation is PROOF OF OWNERSHIP. Agree that a tittle will not be issued untill payoff so the next best thing to show proof of ownership is the registration.  ONF also requires you to carry proof of ownership with you when you ride there, alltho i have not been stopped & asked for it i still carry it.
The reason is to make sure what you are riding is not stolen.  He is doing his job by the book!!!
One day you will cross paths with this guy & will see for yourself!!!
Even better, go to the Croom web site & read for yourself, he's just doing his job!!!!
Also never said it was a problem to get the sticker, just trying to help those that haven't been yet have the right papers to get the sticker!!

Just what is the big fat hairy deal here??  My husband is only trying to give a heads up about this guy and practically got called a liar?  I was there...he ain't exaggerating....this guy was a real "TOOL!!"  Matter of fact, what Patches DIDN'T tell you about was just how MUCH this "tool" was bragging! Patches downplayed that part and I really don't think that guy likes cops much and was looking for a reason to bust us! Seems like he was around every blessed corner of the day riding area and was watching us the entire time!  Pissed me right off!!
Patches wasn't ONLY venting, he was trying to save everyone a headache from this dude!!  SVT...Just say thank you and go on with your day.  JEEZ!!

been there plenty of times and they only wanted the vin# so the sticker they give you will be registered to that vin#. They can check your (valid) Croom sticker and make sure it belongs to that specific bike. other wise people would buy one sticker and use it on other bikes. Never had an issue with any of the rangers, they've always been pretty cool with us ;) 

I agree ZMAN...we'd never had a problem till Yesterday either!!  Normally the rangers are awesome!!

This is really bad news but I would contact the new ranger lady very nice and after talking to her I do not think she would be happy t hear these things being done  so make sure you guys let her know.

I hope to be up there in a couple of weeks, Plannin on 11-11 or 11-17 weekend, I hope the weather is nice (50's or colder). I hope to be there with a fresh motor on the quad.

Well went out and rode croom today so heres the report.

The trails are whooped out major The worst I have seen in a few years.

The place was busy lots of bikes

Had a good time but the trails need to be groomed in the worst of ways

the north end was a little better the last time I was there

When did they install a flat track?

No track just trails and pits.

Just took my brother yesterday, Campground was open even though it was thursday.  Most of the summer rain mud is gone, so it is also alittle dusty now.  The lettered trails have not been groomed in awhile it seems.  Found some new nice climbs in the mines though!

I think they are reffering to the small circle track in the beginner training area.

we rode fri sat sun..it was awesome ;D

dieselbeef  was there still a lot of whoops da whoops???? ??? :K

not really....there some theres always gonna be..the pit had alot but most of the trails were pretty good. course on my 500 i dont care i skip over em but even on the quads it was awesome ridin....trails are pretty nice..i was surprised

Road Croom today. If you get a chance this week to go riding do it. They have groomed every lettered trail in the the place. The A trail was in better shape then I75. The other thing of interest is they are clearing two areas in the park to build tracks. :ThumbsUp.gif

Cool! Thanks for the update!

I was at a local gun shop in Ocala this weekend and we were discussing riding side by sides and he told me he rides in Croom all the time. I said that I understood that no SxS were allowed. He told me no one bothers him. Is it true that I can ride my SxS there?

I ride croom two to three times a week and have never saw a single side by side.   Call the gate house and ask them, 352-797-5759 they will tell you if you can.

 I rode Croom today. It was the first time in 3yrs.  It's changed a little. I like the way they have graded the lettered trails. It makes riding in the heat a little better when you can get some decent speed going.
 I didn't care for the new hrs . cause I like riding early am or in the evening, but hey at least there's still a legal place to ride. And it's close by for me. And they are open 7 days a week again. I've never seen so many park rangers. But none of them stopped me or even gave me a second look. ;D

What are Croom's hours?

 Currently they are open 7 days a week. The hrs are 8am to 5pm.

going to ride croom this week no monday or friday any one else ride during the week????

  Hum  Monday but then I would have to kick myself in the ars.  I wish I could but I have to much crap to get done! :'(

i cant ride monday or friday of this week

croom wed.7/11 any one know what year pass cost

$60 for the year or $15 for a day pass!!!!!!!!

what a deal must get one

Rode Croom on Sat and was amazed at how good the trails were Trail A was the best I ever seen it.  I may have to start to go back too riding there more often

Thanks for the update!!! ;)   I always ask to see if there is like a schedule to when they groom  the trails. If their is a local or a regular please help!!! :bow.gif    For me its 300 miles one way from Miami and I love croom and been there 15+ times and only got to ride once after they had coincidently just groomed the trails (A). Im planning a trip soon and would love to go the weekend after they groom if possible?? :-\ ::)   

I was told that they can only groom after a rain so i would say if it rains early in the week then they will probalaly been out grooming some of the trail

Thank you again !! :Clap.gif :bow.gif :ThumbsUp.gif    I appreciate the info and will pray for rain!!! ::)   i've gone before and got there after a thrre day continous rain storm!!!   that weekend was the best!!!! :Fp  not a drop of water on the trails, NO DUST!!!!!    awesome grip!!!  probably 50 degrees?    i wanted to get a glass of milk and mix a couple of scoop fulls and drink i like a shake it was sooooooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!!    good!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
 

Hello all, I'm new to this area.  I am a mud ridder.  Can yall tell me if this is a good place to ride for mudders?  Thanks.

There is mudd at croom but once you have it on your machine or you good luck getting it off.  It's a mixture of limestone and clay which forms a pasty sticky mess which is evil. >:(     It stands up to a 3500 pressure washer spray the only way to get it off is with scraper.  Oh and if you let it dry then you will need a jack hammer to get it off. :'(

yea what patch say plus if u get stuck in some of the holes u stuck

Croom truly has a very diverse terrain that I've seen all types of riders enjoy

croom was awesome today

hey guys i was thinking about going to croom on sunday. i just picked up a new bike a week ago. i got a 02 400ex i have no title but have a bill of sale. would i still be able to go? also i think someone took out the spark arrestor will this be a problem if so is there any way id be able to fix it so i could go? cause im not spend $75 on a spark arrestor i will just wait and buy a aftermarket tip for a little bit more

you should be fine!!!    you dont need either to rde there!!!

going to croom friday anyone want to ride i can only do the am

At croom

OMG Croom mudd good luck getting it off.  I avoid that stuff its like super glue! :nuke.gif

It was bad i went strait to the wash area

hi Patches hope you have been doing well, if you camp at croom how late can you ride?

sun up to 1/2 hour before sun down ;D   i remember it was so funny how we would be ready as soon as we saw the sun peaking over the horizon.  most of our crew was still sleeping and we were the alarm clock. my only wish iss that i can retire close to there to ride everyday ::) :ThumbsUp.gif

Zephyz is zman is 100 % on the money.  It is just great once they close that gate at 5pm its like have the place to yourself. 8)

im dyin to go back and ride there!!!!!!!!!!! :drive.gif   the campfire at night is the best :drink.gif :E :spit.gif :ThumbsUp.gif   the riding is like no other place too!!!! :Fp :ThumbsUp.gif

Thanks guys!!

I know it says alcoholic beverages prohibited but come on. I can't even put beer in the cooler for camping or do the check them? :drink.gif

Well I guess you could put that question right up there with the No Trespassing sign debate.......

If there is a No Trespassing sign posted and I go ahead and ride there anyway and no one sees me  is it really trespassing?

this is a place to ride not drink :no   does it happen Im sure!!!    if you go and ride and be discreet (because this is a family atmosphere)  have a cold beer(or 2) after riding!!   I personally dont think you'll have an issue. if your discreet!!  you should not!!!  walk around with ANY  alcohol whatsoever!!     and please understand Im not encouraging you or tryin to facilitate you. Im just sayin this is a nice place and 95% of the people dont care for gettin drunk or will tolerate people intoxicated.  anyone I see drinkin and ridin, especially drunk!!!!!    for sure I'll turn you in.  if your just havin family time next to the fire with a cold one (not gettin hammered) I dont think you will have a problem with the people out there but a ranger will say something to you if he see's you and they will look into your cup ,I personally dont need to have a beer when im there but Im sure others enjoy a cold beer out there and please no glass. you'll be OK   i guess

If you want to get licked up stay at home.   Motors and alcohol are a fiery mixture! >:D

Guys, are UTVs (SxSs) allowed at ONF and croom? This is my first SxS, so I'm not sure who allows them and who doesn't. They are safe as hell compared to other machines! Can't wait to hit up new places.

Only quads and bikes at Croom, ONF does allow the side by sides.

Hello, This is the very first time i go to Croom, I was wondering if it gets to packed on Memorial Day Weekend. By the way i will be camping from Friday to Sunday

With a holiday weekend it could be crowded.   The economy has hit it hard on attendance, so back before the crash it would be good luck getting a spot on holiday weekends.  If you get there Friday you should have no problem getting a camping spot.

Thanks, I'm driving from Miami, but we are leaving very early in the AM hopefully is not that much crowded!!

@ croom now stopped by florida national to see my dad

Croom and my new polaris are awesome they get along good

  Try to keep the new one out of the mud. ;)  I like the color. 

Yea got to stay out the mud  dont realy go in unless it is the only way through

Croom today was great no dust not hot just rite

 You picked a great day to ride !  I was wishing I was riding instead of working. 

It was nice we rode about 4and1/2  hours

HI FIRST POST. going to croom this weekend to learn as much about the area as I can in 2 days, will have gps hooked up taking note, any pointers.

#1 have fun

Riding croom this Fri.the 12th anyone riding anyone want to ride

Did croom today met up with 1scorpion the ride went good for bout 1 1/2 hours I picked up a pine branch an ripped a CV boot  on the front my day was done will have to get the cat 300 0ut next week for a ride any one riding during the week I am ready where ever let me no and thanks for the meet up scorpion nice to meet u hope to ride again with u

road today for about 5 hours until the rain. great ride.

Croom Monday the 15th any one I'll b their

Did Croom today awesome saw the.archway of croom to

Glad you had a good time... Don't give away the location of the (live Ride) if they find it the rangers will take it all down like they did/do at the motorcycle shrine.

OK its cool I just like taking pics I like seeing things like that I like that dead oak archway

Taking pictures is great my wife and I must have a few hundred pictures of Croom and a lot of video.  There are some really neat things in Croom to take pictures of.

yes their is I'll take a pic of any thing just to get some pictures.And I saw your video of  ocala north that was cool I road with 1 scorpion last week

Going to croom monday july 22nd any one riding come on out

very very very  wet......

The trails have water stranding on them

you got it.

Well i got it did croom today was a nice overcast day the trails were drying up by the end of the day had to get pic of my family and the coolest dead tree in croom

croom thur.the1st anyone i'll b their

Croom  this wed. Anyone riding

do you know the place well?  if I plan a group trip can you take us around and show us the place?    I personally been there like 20+ times and purposely try to explore new places every trip ;)

Let me now when your going I know the place like the back of my hand.

New to this site, however been in Florida my entire life. I am packed and ready to head up Thursday morning and camp until Sunday, but, I've never been before. A few questions that may seem repetitive, but I've been getting a lot of very mixed information. Since I will be driving about 1:30, pulling a fifth wheel, I won't be too stoked about getting turned around at the gate. If anyone can help clear this up for me I would greatly appreciate it. I am ex military, and decided to take a trip with an old service buddy of mine on my atv's.

I am ex military. Are there discounts?

I have bills of sale for both of my ATV's which are 2002 Suzuki Eigers. Will these be accepted to get me the "Croom sticker". People say they just write VINs on a paper and cash in hand works?

How much is the yearly pass?

How much is it to camp?

Are there electric/water hookups?

Also, anyone going for Labor Day Weekend? It would be cool to meet some people up there.

What is the deal with said "Croom Nazi" I called to ask about campsite size and a young woman answered the phone, I did not get her name. Very friendly. And told me that they were "pretty good size" and that a bill of sale would be acceptable. After reading online and hearing about so called Nazi, I'm not so sure... Kinda makes me want to find another place to camp when I'm looking at a haul to get there, lol. Thanks to anyone that can help. Just trying to have a fun Labor Day.

Ok thanks for the heads up! I appreciate it.

Thanks for the reply patches. I'll be headed up Thursday morning.

should be arriving friday in the AM

Cool, camping too? I'll be in the silver trailer with a silver dodge. Won't be able to miss it.

Cool I will b out their Fri. Just for the ride red Polaris 500 and green artic cat 300 silver dodge

Sweet. I'll keep an eye out.

gonna try to convince my buddy to campout , I just hope it aint african hot.  either way, im happy to be in croom   place is like a roller coaster ride :drive.gif <nanaparty>   

I've got A/C and plenty of ice lol.

All set up and rode today. Swampy, just how I like it. See anyone who is coming out when they get here. The guy at the guard shack said it gets pretty busy but there's only one other group here

@croom

No ride 4me today polaris broke down had to put it in shop so I got a 2013 articcat 400 4x4 they have to put it together have it by Tue. Nice

was it full and crowded today, im going tomarrow for sure.

I rode friday and saturday ;D  I've never seen the trails that flat.  trail N,T,and a couple others were as flat as I've ever seen them. not a drop of dust I loved it!!   

I took my new cat out today and I never been on the week end their was alot of people their

How was it out there on Labor day?

It was OK. Kinda slow. I'm sure Fri/Sunday was rocking.

 Rode at Croom this morning . The trails were in good shape considering all the rain we had.  There's plenty of mud, just stay out of the clay.  The trails in and out of the pits were washed out !  If you try them be careful.!!!!   

Thanks for the update!  :ThumbsUp.gif

Croom riding and camping this weekend anyone else going.

I hope to be there on Saturday.

K Raptor toy hauler with brown f250 in camping area merle.

Thunderdually is going to ride !!!   It's going to rain for sure.  I'll be there to watch the live action ! ;)

What time is everyone going to croom I would like to tag along if yall dont mind thunderdully

 Hey kountry23.   He told me he will be there at 0800 .  It would be good to see you again.

HEY THERE Croom MUD DANCER....  ;D   Come on up for sure...  The more the merrier..  See every one tomorrow.


I plan to be there by 8 AM   Roland and i will be parking in the back by the shelter.

According to Scorpion you might want to bring rain gear  rolback1 rolback1

Lol is that where we parked last time I met you there

Must have been LOL That's my parking space and i always park there.. 

Ok ill be there around 8

 Great ride today !   Great seeing everyone.  Merle did his best to defy the laws of gravity. ;)  And kountry23 is crazy about mud.  He did alright and only got stuck once.  I did my best to avoid the mud. That stuff at Croom is like concrete. 
  Thanks for leading Merle.  Too bad it got so hot. Cooler weather can't be to far away.
  We need to ride again soon.

It was definitely a good time today and yeah that one hole was a lil deep haha. Cant wait for the cooler weather and all ride togeather again

i was there labor day weekend and the N trail was flat, so was the north perimeter trail. I had never been there without it being whooped out. it was the smoothest i had ever seen. it also rained a couple days before we got there so there was no dust
 

The trails have greatly improved the last couple of years.  The dry season is almost so the dust will be back. :gr

Yup it was a great day. Yes the mud at Croom is like concrete. "Merle did his best to defy the laws of gravity" Hey i kept the shinny side up LOL Thanks for leading Merle  Your welcome I know how you hate those Croom spiders LOL.

Had a great time just wished we could have see more of TJ and the boys.  Next weekend any one?

Do you need a spark arrestor to go to croom?

Yes but they never check so go and have fun.

Merle and Krountry always a pleasure.   Nice to meet you scorpion.  We have to do it again soon.  I can not this weekend have to work.

Do you need the registration sticker to go to croom?

 Rode at Croom this morning.  The weather was perfect. It must have rained there last night no dust ;D.  Lots of deer in the northwest corner. The trails either have not been groomed lately or more people riding there. The trails were whooped out for the most part. Next ride I'm headed to Ocala. This weather is too good not to ride.  I still had fun ! Any ride is a good ride!

Any idea how the weather will be this weekend. Going to go Friday, Saturday and leave Sunday. Never been before.

Weather is going to be great, just rained here so the dust will be low.   I am camping this weekend, will be in a Raptor triple axle toy hauler with brown F250 crew cab, stop by.

We will be in a tent lol. Can't afford any of that fancy stuff. Be driving a white single cab ram with a CRF and YZF. I'm still learning to ride on 2 wheels, thought id have another quad by now but just waiting. The sand pit really interests me since I can just rip around it, think it would be too flooded?

Any cheap hotels near by?

I know it's $15 per bike each day, is there a weekend pass. There website wont load for me. Neither of our bikes have the "Green Stickers" either. Girlfriends back only has a bill of sale.. Will we have any problems.

There are hotels out front but do not know the price,  have to watch out in past years its feeding frenzy for thieves.   They lock the entry gate at 5pm so its just the campers after 5 and until 8am when they open the gate back up.   The campground has a bath house with showers and is 24 bucks a night in peak season, per site.  Each camp site has electric and water and a fire pit.   I bring firewood but plenty of folks go out and drag stuff back. Its a great time to camp and ride right from your site.

I added to my post right after you replied but one last thing for you. Both our bikes are race bikes and we don't have the green stickers. Only have a bill of sale for her bike.. Will we be alright? I know we need to purchase the OHV Permit which is 40 bucks each.

Just give the gate your VIN's and 15 per day per bike or yearly pass is prorated either 40 or 50 and good till June.

Sweet, any idea how much tent camping is? Finally got the site to load and they said it's posted outside the camping area.

We will be coming down Friday morning and staying till mid day Sunday.

24$ per site tent or RV be in late Friday.

For those of you who haven't been on here as long, Bones used to have a video of his gang at Croom put to Deodato doing his version of "Theme from 200:1 a Space Odyssey" (Also Sprach Zarathustra).  Maybe if he's feeling good about it, he'll re-post it here.  It was (is) a great video!

New Year's Croom 2006 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xX2XUxf6kcQ#)

alot of good memories riding ATV's at croom

That may be the most unintentionally gay thing anyone's ever posted on this site.

Cool video.  Love the Banshees!  Still on my bucket list; a Banshee and me at Glamis. 

All loaded up and ready to go, fiancee wont quit talking about showers  :banghead.gif

Could there be a Anoriginal sighting at Croom, but not likely it's like a sunk ape very rare. 

Well just waiting on the kids to get out of school now and I will be heading out for a Croom camp out! <nanaparty>

Was nice out there, came home a day early though. Bikes ran good just fiancee got frustrated and didn't want to deal with it anymore so packed up and came back home. Got a solid 5 hours of riding in though. Definitely more comfortable on the bike than I was before I went. Met some great people too.

Sorry we did not run into each other.

Any theft issues lately? a Buddy and I are planning on heading to Croom in the next few weeks and will be camping. Just curious if we need to bring extra security with us ;)

No issues they lock the gate at night, but I still like extra security.

You insecure bassturd.

Have to be, cause folks like you wondering about in the woods for no legal reason.

I was looking for a place to poop.

Are helmets required at Croom?

Yes.

Adults too? I was told just for kids under 16

At croom everybody wears one!!

I'm sure its already said somewhere in this thread, but what do we need to get into croom?

Me and 3 of my friends plan on going this weekend, but we've never been before.

We just want to get a day long permit, to see if we like it.

What should be bring to get the permit?

Also, one of us is around 16, and I'm his guardian, so should we just bring the title to his bike?

Thanks

ill be at croom this weekend 2 you need helmets that's a factor lol also if the bike has the ohv sticker that's all you need for the permit or if you don't have it you need the title and if you dint have a title I seen people show notarized bill of sales and they accept that aswell

I don't think any of us have the ohv sticker, so I'll be sure to tell my friends to just bring their titles with them, thanks.

This website will answer all your questions.

http://www.freshfromflorida.com/Divisions-Offices/Florida-Forest-Service/Our-Forests/State-Forests/Withlacoochee-State-Forest/Croom-Motorcycle-Area-at-Withlacoochee-State-Forest (http://www.freshfromflorida.com/Divisions-Offices/Florida-Forest-Service/Our-Forests/State-Forests/Withlacoochee-State-Forest/Croom-Motorcycle-Area-at-Withlacoochee-State-Forest)

K_Man

What do they do if u have an old dirtbike that was never titled?  I have a friend that wants to go and the 1999 yz250 is all we have left to ride.  I never titled it since it wasn't required when I bought it in 2000.  I don't remember getting any paperwork with it.   Is my friend SOL.  I plan on calling dmv on Monday and seeing what they say about getting it registered. 

If you owned before 2002 go to the tax collector and you can sign an affidavit and get a title.

Rode Croom today. it's drying up and getting dusty again.  We had a blast !

 :(
Went to Croom today and had fun except there was several individuals that were doing donuts and slinging dirt on other peoples cars annd trucks, popping wheeleys down the road
Come on folks it is just common sence to respect other people stuff.
Thanks to Mark and Missy and the rest of the crew

Mutants don't have common sence, all they have is a total lack of respect for other peoples property!!!!!  AZZHOLES!!!!!!!!!!!

We are headed there in the morning. Thunderdually is bringing the anti-mutant spray.

He have have used it all up he lives in Pinellas County which is full of them!

Is that GPS map on the first page updated? Looking for a couple mini tracks to take the little guy to. He loved the one Myrle took us to. Tried to find it last week, no dice.

Hey Carl that track is located at or near 28°34.843'N 82°14.524'W The track is located west of Q trail and South of U trail near the corner of where Q and U meet. I used to have an updated Google Earth (KML file) map and had all the trails and mines market if your interested in the KML file pm me with your Email address and i will email it to you.

Absolutely! Sending pm

File sent

Do you have to wear a full face helmet? Was wanting to us a half shell.

No, I wear a 3\4. Not sure about the 1\2 tho.

Rode croom yesterday with my 7yo son. First time I have been there in 5 years. Was a little taken back that they will not allow you to purchase your yearly pass before July 1st. In years past, they would allow you to purchase them a few weeks before July 1st. Didn't care too much for the $15 per ATV day pass, but Ocala is $10 so I was ok with the $15. Nothing has seemed to change there.  It was pretty crowded. The worst part of the day were the stupid people who don't take safety seriously.  But you can't fix stupid.  Had to love the guy who let his son make his own track in the parking area between the cars while he smiled and laughed.  Overall it was a good day. Still not a huge fan of the place, but it's the shortest drive for me to ride

I have not been there in over a year.  How are the trails,  as of my last visit there was no trail grooming be done.

Very,very minimal if any.  A few of the lettered trails are not too bad. I think the 2 cocky rangers in the guard shack was the worst part of the day

Oh no the return of the Croom Nazi's! ???

Is it OK to add mudding pictures? If not please delete. Here's a mudding pic from CROOM 10 years ago, you can hardly tell there's 2 riders in the pic.(source: http://www.atvstyle.com/atv-mudding (http://www.atvstyle.com/atv-mudding))