ARIPEKA, FLORIDA

Aripeka, Florida is a place you may not find unless you are really looking for it.  It is on the Gulf Coast near Spring Hill about 48 miles north of Tampa and a mile south of Hernando Beach.

Part of its unique charm is its location on quiet rural County Road 595.  

The county road is known as Osowaw Boulevard north of Aripeka and Aripeka Road south of town.

The road that passes through Aripeka is subject to frequent flooding due to rainfall events and fluctuations in the level of the water and marshes surrounding the town.

The population of this unincorporated community is about 300, and there is not much room to grow larger.  The village is surrounded by marshes and water.

Aripeka was first known as Gulf Key and began to get its first settlers in 1873.  The first post office called the place Argo.

In 1895 the name of the place was changed to honor a Miccosukee chief for whom a local sawmill had been named.

According to Allen Morris's book "Florida Place Names", the famous chief, also known as Sam Jones, was called "Aripeka" or "Arpeika."  

There is a historic marker in Aripeka that states Babe Ruth, the famous baseball player, liked to visit Aripeka to go fishing.

It must be true because for years people referred to an old shack in Aripeka as the "Babe Ruth" cabin.

The main business in town is Norfleet's Fish Camp, locally known as Carl's store,  which is at the foot of the bridge as you come into town from the north.

There have been other fish camps over the years, and a healthy commercial fishing economy as well.

Our brief article cannot do justice to this little place.

Fortunately, somebody has taken the time to write a well detailed and interesting article about Aripeka that you will want to read.

NATURECOASTER.COM ARTICLE ABOUT ARIPEKA

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THINGS TO DO IN ARIPEKA, FLORIDA

Aripeka Sandhills Preserve
18000 Aripeka Rd, Hudson, FL 34667 | (727) 847-8140

This preserve spans over 100 acres of protected land, featuring sandhills, marshes, and forests. You will enjoy hiking the well-marked trails, where you can spot a wide variety of wildlife, including gopher tortoises and numerous bird species.

The preserve offers a peaceful retreat into nature, perfect for photographers, bird watchers, and anyone seeking a quiet outdoor adventure.

Osowaw Boulevard
Aripeka, FL 34607

This picturesque roadway offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico on one side and the serene beauty of coastal marshlands on the other.

Our favorite part of the drive is stopping at the small pull-offs to enjoy the sunset over the Gulf. It’s a simple yet unforgettable experience that highlights the natural beauty of Aripeka.

Hammock Creek Greenway
At the end of Osowaw Blvd, Aripeka, FL 34679

This greenway provides a secluded path for walking, jogging, and biking, surrounded by the lush Florida landscape. We enjoy the tranquility of the area, especially in the early morning when wildlife is most active.

It’s an ideal spot for those looking to get some exercise while enjoying the peacefulness of Aripeka’s natural surroundings.

Norfleet's Fish Camp Aka "Carl's Store"
221 Osowaw Blvd, Spring Hill, FL 34607 | (352) 835-7014

As mentioned earlier. Here is the contact information for your use.

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