Crone's Cradle Conserve
A 756-acre ecological preserve and certified organic farm in Citra, FL — blending land conservation with community agriculture just north of Ocala.
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Overview: A Dual Mission
Ecological Preserve
Spanning 756 acres of North Florida landscape, the conserve protects native habitats including wetlands, upland forests, and wild corridors. The land is managed to support biodiversity and serve as a living classroom for ecological education.
Organic Farm
Within the conserve, a working organic farm produces vegetables, herbs, and other crops using sustainable methods. The farm operation supports the CSA program, country store, and educational workshops — connecting the community directly to the land.
CSA Program: Community Supported Agriculture
Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) is a partnership between a farm and its community. Members purchase a "share" of the season's harvest upfront, then receive regular boxes of fresh, organic produce throughout the growing season. This model gives the farm financial stability and gives members direct access to locally grown food.
Crone's Cradle Conserve is understood to offer CSA shares from their organic farm operation. Share structures, pricing, and pickup frequency can vary from season to season. If you're interested in joining, the best approach is to visit cronescradleconserve.org or call (352) 595-3377 for current availability and enrollment instructions.
Country Store
The country store at Crone's Cradle Conserve is reported to carry farm-grown produce, locally made goods, and other items reflecting the conserve's organic and sustainable values. It offers a way to support the farm even if a full CSA share isn't right for you.
Store hours and product availability can vary with the seasons and harvest cycles. Calling ahead before visiting is strongly recommended — especially for longer drives from Ocala.
Tours & Workshops
Educational Tours
Guided tours of the farm and conserve are believed to be available, covering topics like organic farming practices, native plant ecology, and land stewardship. Tour schedules and group sizes may vary.
Workshops
The conserve has an educational mission and is reported to host workshops on topics such as sustainable agriculture, composting, native habitats, and more. Registration may be required — check their website for upcoming events.
School & Group Programs
As an education center, Crone's Cradle Conserve may accommodate school groups and organized visits. If you're a teacher or group organizer, reaching out directly to coordinate a visit is the recommended approach.
Wildlife & Natural Habitats
North Florida's diverse ecosystems are well represented across 756 acres. Visitors to Crone's Cradle Conserve can expect to encounter a patchwork of habitats characteristic of Marion County — including pine flatwoods, hardwood hammocks, wetlands, and open agricultural fields.
Native wildlife such as wading birds, songbirds, white-tailed deer, gopher tortoises, and various reptiles and amphibians may be present throughout the property. The conserve's land management approach prioritizes native species, which supports broader ecological health in the region.
How to Visit
Address
6411 NE 217th Place, Citra, FL 32113
Phone
(352) 595-3377
Website
cronescradleconserve.org — check for current hours, store availability, and upcoming programs before visiting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Crone's Cradle Conserve located?
Crone's Cradle Conserve is located at 6411 NE 217th Place, Citra, FL 32113 — approximately 20 miles north of downtown Ocala in Marion County. We recommend confirming directions on their website or by phone before visiting, as rural routes can be tricky.
What is a CSA share and how does Crone's Cradle's program work?
A Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) share means you pay upfront for a season of farm-fresh produce, then pick up your box regularly throughout the season. Crone's Cradle Conserve is believed to offer CSA shares from their organic farm operation, but share availability, pricing, and pickup schedules may change seasonally — contact (352) 595-3377 or visit cronescradleconserve.org for current enrollment details.
Is the country store open to the public?
Crone's Cradle Conserve is reported to operate a country store where visitors can purchase farm-grown and locally sourced products. Hours and inventory can vary by season, so calling ahead or checking cronescradleconserve.org before making the drive is recommended.
Does Crone's Cradle Conserve offer tours or educational programs?
The conserve has a strong educational mission and is understood to offer tours, workshops, and programs focused on organic farming, ecology, and sustainability. Scheduling may vary, and some programs may require advance registration — check their website for current offerings.
What kind of wildlife or habitats can visitors expect at the preserve?
At 756 acres, Crone's Cradle Conserve encompasses diverse North Florida habitats including wetlands, upland forests, and working farmland. Visitors may encounter native Florida wildlife, but specific wildlife programs or guided nature walks should be confirmed directly with the conserve.