Originally named “Tompkinsville,” the city of Inverness dates all the way back to the latter end of the 19th century. Previously home to native tribes, such as the Seminole, Inverness started out as a farming area that experienced steady growth into the 20th century. Taking on its modern name soon after its founding, Inverness really started to experience a population boom after World War II. Still, modern Inverness, Florida, isn’t as major a bustling city as some of its Floridian neighbors. Today, the population is slightly less than 8,000, which helps lend a small-town-style feeling to those visiting the city.
In 2019, Inverness celebrated its 100th year after incorporation. To celebrate, the locals renovated two of the city’s important institutions: the Valerie Theatre Cultural Center and the Historic Old Courthouse Museum.
The first of these Inverness entities, the Valerie Theatre, was first built in 1927. It had been named after the daughter of its builder, Pearl G. Maddox. During the next 60 years, the Valerie would be home to movies ranging from 1920s-era silent films to its final film, 1987’s “The Untouchables.” After years of vacancy, the theatre was reopened for movies, theater, and comedy shows in 2015.
The Inverness Courthouse was built in 1912, which was four years before Inverness’s incorporation as a city. This courthouse was used for decades until it went out of use, and while it neared demolition, in 1992, it was declared a National Historic Place and then an official museum in 2000.
Campgrounds Near Inverness, Florida
When staying in the Inverness, Florida, area, you’ll want a local campground to really get to know the city. A good option for this would be Ocala North RV Park, which is about 56 miles from Inverness. This location has full hookups, back-in and pull-through sites, and also public showers. Located right off Interstate 75, Ocala North RV Park also has a pool for visitors.
Slightly closer, you’ll find Rock Crusher Canyon RV Park, which allows pets and also has full hookups. This location is managed by Sun RV Resorts, which is a nationwide chain known for its great upkeep. Relax in the hot tub, socialize with the friendly staff and visitors, or make a trip to the fitness center while here.
Another location that’s pet-friendly and has a hot tub for visitors is Ocala RV Camp Resort, which also features spaces for even the largest RV types. Full hookups are available here, and it’s also close to one of Ocala’s most popular malls.
State Parks Near Inverness, Florida
Rainbow Springs State Park is located in Dunnellon, Florida, which is about 18 miles away from Inverness. Rainbow Springs is aptly named thanks to the wide variety of colors found in the area. While there, you’ll find lush greenery, beautiful blue waters, white-capped falls, and flowering plants that span the gamut of natural colors. Even in the winter, Rainbow Springs only falls to about 46°F, and in the warmer months, you can easily experience weather well into the upper 90s. Like other parts of this area of the state, Rainbow Springs State Park presents prime birdwatching opportunities, and while there, take a moment to hike some of the local trails.
Found in Fruitland Park, which is less than 30 miles away from Inverness, you’ll find Lake Griffin State Park. This is a water lover’s dream, and if you enjoy kayaking, fishing, or boating, this is a park you’ll not want to miss. There are multiple RV campgrounds here, and while here, you’ll get plenty of opportunities to check out swampland and the local wildlife.
Located in Ocala, Florida, Silver Springs State Park is named for the beautiful and meandering springs found here. These springs were one of Florida’s first tourist attractions; in fact, one of these is one of the largest artesian springs ever discovered on the planet. Seize on the chance to check out the waters on a glass-bottom boat tour. Doing so will expose you to some of the aquatic wildlife that calls these springs home. Some of these include the manatees that frequent this part of the state. There are also trails here that will test your skills. Feel free to hike solo or use one of the ranger-led tours to really explore the wilderness at Silver Springs State Park.
National Sites Near Inverness, Florida
You’ll find De Soto National Memorial about 118 miles away from Inverness. Here, you’ll be able to check out one of the key moments of North American history: the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors, which were led by Hernando de Soto in 1539. While here, enjoy some kayaking as well as birdwatching. There are also miles of mangrove trees to explore on the numerous trails that dot the park. De Soto National Memorial is also a key place to really learn about the early history of the continent.
Fort Matanzas National Monument is a fort built in 1742 to protect the Spanish colony of St. Augustine. This was proven necessitated thanks to a 39-day attack on the city by the armies of James Oglethorpe, a British soldier and founder of the colony of Georgia. Visitors today will be able to see how fortifications were in the early 18th century, and there are even re-enactments held on weekends to really expose visitors to a bit of the past. Today, there’s a lot to do at this national site. You can observe local wildlife, such as the northern river otter or the majestic manatee, or hike a trail.
Another fort located in this part of the state, Castillo de San Marcos National Monument can be found in St. Augustine, Florida. There are walking tours, oceanfront activities, and even a theater room for those looking to educate themselves about the area. The fort at Castillo de San Marcos National Monument is the oldest masonry fort on the continental United States, so expect to be awestruck while exploring the area.
National Forests Near Inverness, Florida
You’ll find Ocala National Forest about 56 miles away from Inverness, Florida, and you’ll need significant time to really explore the almost 400,000 acres of national forest. While here, you’ll find that the topography is ever-changing; there are wetlands, swamps, Scotland-like highlands, coastal lowlands, and wide areas of thick greenery. There are opportunities that abound in this national forest. Examples include kayaking and canoeing on the water, hiking through various trails, and horseback riding. Don’t forget to bring a camera; there are thousands of examples of wildlife here. Some local denizens include black bears, alligators, bobcats, and the occasional fox.
For history buffs, especially those with an interest in the Civil War, Osceola National Forest was the site of one of the largest battles taking place in Florida. Today, you won’t find many places more serene; the landscape is dotted with waterways, hiking trails, and hills. Visitors have plenty of options, especially those who love to do things on the water like fishing, kayaking, and swimming. The wealth of trails is also noteworthy. While visiting, consider the Osceola Nice Wanderer Trail, the Trampled Track Trail, or the more difficult Florida National Scenic Trail.
Apalachicola National Forest is found near Bristol, Florida, and is known for its various campgrounds, varying intensity trails, and abundant flora and fauna. Apalachicola National Forest is about 213 miles away from Inverness, Florida, so set some time aside to really get to know this wilderness destination. When here, you’ll have some prime fishing opportunities, and flora is everywhere for you to observe. Good examples include various bird species, the gray bat, and of course, the local populations of aquatic manatees. If you’re looking for a hiking challenge, consider the Munson Hills Trail that winds along for just over eight miles.