Ozello is what appears to be a series of small communities
built on islands in the marshland linked together by a curvy road named Ozello Trail (County Road 494). The ten mile drive from U.S. 19 just south of
Crystal River to the
end of Ozello Trail makes a great afternoon excursion - if for no other reason
than just to enjoy the scenery or enjoy a great meal at one of several
restaurants in this small town.
The exact date Ozello was first settled seems
to be lost to history. But it is known that in 1880 a school house was built for
children living in the area. In those days there may very well have been people
settled along both banks of the St. Martins River - because there was apparently
some dispute as to whether the school house should be built on the north or
south bank of the river. In the end the people decided to erect the school on an
island in the middle of the river. Children had to row boats to school each day.
And on Sundays, their parents did the rowing, as the building was also used as a
church.
In 1920 the Citrus County Commission voted to fund construction of
two bridges over Salt River and Black Creek. Construction of these
bridges paved the way for development of the area. The
developed areas are not likely to expand in the future as Ozello is completely
surrounded by the Crystal River and St. Martins Marsh Aquatic Preserves.
Even though the separate islands force Ozello into distinct clusters of homes,
this is a remarkably unified small community of about 400 people - with their
own water company, church, civic club, and community park. Ozello Community Park
at the end of Ozello Trail has a boat ramp and picnic area with restroom
facilities. Nearby is Pecks Old Port Cove Restaurant - with indoor and outdoor
deck seating offering a popular destination for locals and tourists to enjoy the
sunset. The restaurant is famous for Blue Crabs which it harvests from its
own farm.
Activities & Facilities
Hotel or B&B
Restaurant
Dogs allowed
Short hiking trails
Paved bike trails
Open gulf kayaking
Motor boating
Cabins
RV sites
Fishing