BEVERLY HILLS, Fla. — For many who call the Sunshine State home, it’s also known by another name.

What You Need To Know

  • Pine Ridge Equestrian Community has been around for years only now its starting to earn the nickname 'Little Ocala'

  • The Citrus County community has attracted those passionate in equestrian and is beginning to see more people call the area home

  • With 28 miles of trails to ride, the community is offering plenty of space for both horse and rider to enjoy

The state didn't obtain its other nickhame of "Horse Country" without a reason. But perhaps less known is the Citrus County community behind that reputation.

The community of Pine Ridge has always been an equestrian paradise. Only now, as more people begin to discover its secret, it's earning another name— "Little Ocala."

“If you look at her from behind, she has angel wings,” Gail Thomas said.

On her 6-acre property, Thomas takes one of her two horses, Annie, out for a stroll.

“It’s the best kept secret in Florida, I believe,” she said.

That secret Thomas is talking about is the Pine Ridge Estates Equestrian Community. An areas Thomas has been calling home for the last 15 years.

“It was the trails, the amenities, the equestrian center where you can board your horses for a couple of years while you’re building your own place,” said Thomas, who is also president of the Pine Ridge Equestrian Association.

Just a short distance away from Thomas’ property sits the Pine Ridge Equestrian Center. A vast open space for members and their horses. 

“I think Pine Ridge is truly becoming like the new Ocala,” said Judy McCoy, a realtor with Century 21 J.W. Morton.

McCoy knows the area all too well. As a realtor, she understands the type of attraction Pine Ridge possesses.

“We have space, we have the Suncoast Parkway coming directly up from Tampa so it’s very easy to get to either Tampa International Airport or Orlando International Airport," McCoy said. "You can have the advantage of being kind of a small town and yet the advantage of being close to big cities, if you need that.”

It’s for this reason that attracted Thomas. Not to mention the extensive trails that run just behind her home.

“We have 28 miles of trails and then, if you want to ride it backwards, you can double that. Add the excess trails, it’s about 60 miles of trails.”

Offering plenty of space for both horse and rider to enjoy.

“I just hope to see people when they move into Pine Ridge to enjoy the wonderful amenities we have," Thomas said. "And to learn about their horses and just enjoy their life with their horses here, in a safe manner.”

An inviting prospect to residents and newcomers alike.