Located in north central Pasco County near the Suncoast Parkway, Crews Lake Wilderness Park covers 113 acres along the west shore of Crews Lake. The lake is the headwaters of the Pithlachascotee River that flows into the Gulf of Mexico 25 miles downstream. There is access for fishing and kayaking ... but the lake level can vary by extremes depending on total annual rainfall. It has been know to be completely dry in periods of severe drought. Lake level is also affected by the presence of numerous sinkholes that drain into the Floridan aquifer, and from groundwater wellfield pumping.

Although Crews Lake Wilderness Park has a wealth of recreational facilities, the lake is probably it's most important feature. Two and a half miles of hiking trails wind through the woods and extend along the lakeshore. Plus an unmarked trail runs to the south onto Pasco County owned land beyond the the park borders. A paved half mile long multi-use trail also extends through the park. At the water's edge there is a long ADA accessible sightseeing or fishing pier. When the water is high enough, access to the lake is provided by a concrete boat ramp. In years past there was a 40 foot tall observation tower on the banks of the lake that can be seen in our video. But sadly it has been removed.

There are four covered picnic shelters and two large pavilions available for use or rental by the public, along with ample parking. Other amenities include a large playground (divided into areas for younger and older children), volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, a small botanical garden, and a log cabin to explore.

One of the notable features of Crews Lake Wilderness Park is the "Central Pasco and Gulf Railroad" - a 7½ inch gauge riding railroad with 8,500 feet of track. The railroad offers rides on the 2nd saturday of each month and for other special occasions like Easter and Christmas. The CP&G organization also hosts a variety of railroad meets where train modeling enthusiasts come from all over the country to use the layout.

Ten campsites are available for overnight tent camping at the park. There is also a group tent camping area. Reservations must be made in advance through the Pasco County Parks & Recreation Department.

Near the end of April each year, the park hosts a large Earth Day celebration. Arts and craft vendors come out in force, along with a variety of wildlife and environmental demonstrations and displays. The PC&G railroad participates in the festivities by offering train rides.Activities & Facilities

PlaygroundPicnic shelterDogs allowedShort hiking trailsLong hiking trailsPaved bike trailsMountain bike trailsRiver or lake kayakingTent campingCabins

• Crews Lake Wilderness Park map
• Pasco County Parks website
• Campsite and shelter rental info
• Central Pasco & Gulf Railroad