Putting the Outing in Scouting

A Guide to Scouting Opportunities on Park Lands within the North Florida Council

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Putting the Outing in ScoutingThis document was compiled by Miles Meyer (BSA Troop 417) as part of the requirements for Wood Badge S487-12-2. The purpose of this document is to provide information on some of the outdoor opportunities within the boundaries of the North Florida Council of Boy Scouts of America. The North Florida Council includes 10 Districts within 17 counties: Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Clay, Columbia, Dixie, Duval, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Levy, Marion, Nassau, Putnam, St. Johns, Suwanee, and Union counties. The North Florida Council consists of almost 6,500 volunteers serving over 57,000 youth in over 850 units.

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Information for this document was compiled from a variety of sources including:

Florida Department of Environmental Protection – Florida Outdoor Recreation Inventory (FORI) (http://webapps.dep.state.fl.us/DrpOrpcr/outdoorRecreationInventory.do)

Florida Department of Environmental Protection – Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) (http://www.dep.state.fl.us/parks/outdoor/scorp.htm)

Florida Forest Service (http://www.floridaforestservice.com/state_forests/)

St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD) (http://www.sjrwmd.com/)

US Scouting Service Project (http://usscouts.org)

Meritbadge.org (http://meritbadge.org)

Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation)

Suwannee River Water Management District (http://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?nid=59)

Florida’s Greenways and Trails (http://www.dep.state.fl.us/gwt/guide/index.htm)

Marion County Parks (http://www.marioncountyfl.org/parks/pr_directory/AmenitySearchFullList.aspx)

National Park Service (http://www.nps.gov)

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“A boy is not a sitting-down animal.” – Robert Baden-Powell

Boys in the Scouting program have the opportunity to take part in outdoor activities and earn a variety of awards in the outdoor environment. The list below includes some activities that can be done while visiting the parks listed in this book. Make sure you are using the most current Scouting manual for details on these activities.

Tiger Cub Achievements:

Let’s Go Outdoors

5F Family Activity – Go outside and watch the weather.

5D Den Activity – With a crayon or colored pencil and a piece of paper, make a leaf rubbing.

5G Go See It Activity – Take a hike with your den.

Tiger Cub Electives:

With your family or with your den, have a picnic -- indoors or outdoors.

Learn about an animal.

With your den or family, play Cleanup Treasure Hunt.

Play a game outdoors with your family or den.

Take a bike ride with your adult partner.

Together with an adult partner, go swimming or take part in an activity on water.

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Wolf Cub Rank Requirements:

4 Know Your Home and Community

f. Visit an important place in your community, such as a historic or government location. Explain why it is important.

7 Your Living World

a. Discuss with your family: What things have people done to show a lack of respect to our world? Why is it important to respect our environment and natural resources? How can you show respect for your environment?

a. Discuss with your family how you feel when you see places in your neighborhood that have lots of litter. Name one thing you can do to help the environment.

a. Practice being respectful while doing the requirements for "Your Living World."

b. Land, air and water can get dirty.  Discuss with your family ways this can happen.

e. With an adult, pick up litter in your neighborhood.  Wear gloves to protect your hands against germs and cuts from sharp objects.

8 Cooking and Eating

e. With an adult, help to plan, prepare, and cook an outdoor meal.

10 Family Fun

c. Plan a walk. Go to a park or a wooded area, or visit a zoo or museum with your family.

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Wolf Cub Electives:

13 Birds

a. Make a list of all the birds you saw in a week and tell where you saw them (field, forest, marsh, yard, or park).

d. Point out 10 different kinds of birds (5 may be from pictures).

15 Grow Something

e. Visit a botanical garden or other agricultural exhibition in your area.

18 Outdoor Adventure

a. Help plan and hold a picnic with your family or den.

b. With an adult, help plan and run a family or den outing.

c. Help plan and lay out a treasure hunt. (See example in book.)

d. Help plan and lay out an obstacle race. (See example in book.)

e. Help plan and lay out an adventure trail.

f. Take part in two summertime pack events with your den.

g. Point out poisonous plants. Tell what to do if you accidentally touch one of them.

19 Fishing

a. Identify five different kinds of fish.

b. Rig a pole with the right kind of line and hook. Attach a bobber and sinker, if you need them. Then go fishing.

c. Fish with members of your family or an adult. Bait your hook and do your best to catch a fish.

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d. Know the rules of safe fishing.

e. Tell about some of the fishing laws where you live.

f. Show how to use a rod and reel.

23 Let’s Go Camping

a. Participate with your pack on an overnight campout.

b. Explain the basics of how to take care of yourself in the outdoors.

c. Tell what to do if you get lost.

d. Explain the buddy system.

e. Attend day camp in your area.

f. Attend resident camp in your area.

g. Participate with your den at a campfire in front of your pack.

h. With your den or pack or family, participate in a worship service outdoors.

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“A week of camp life is worth six months of theoretical teaching in the meeting room.” – Robert Baden-Powell

Bear Cub Rank Requirements:

3 What Makes America Special?

c. Find out something about the old homes near where you live. Go and see two of them.

d. Find out where places of historical interest are located in or near your town or city. Go and visit one of them with your family or den.

5 Sharing Your World with Wildlife

d. Visit one of the following: Zoo, Nature center, Aviary, Wildlife refuge, Game preserve.

6 Take Care of Your Planet

b. Plant a tree in your yard, or on the grounds of the group that operates your Cub Scout pack, or in a park or other public place. Be sure to get permission first.

g. Take part in a den or pack neighborhood clean-up project.

8 The Past is Exciting and Important

e. Find out some history about your community.

9 What’s Cooking

g. With an adult, cook something outdoors.

12 Family Outing Adventure

a. Go camping with your family.

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b. Go on a hike with your family.

c. Have a picnic with your family.

d. Attend an outdoor event with your family.

e. Plan your outdoor family day.

Bear Cub Electives:

1 Space

a. Identify two constellations and the North Star in the night sky.

2 Weather

e. Learn to identify three different kinds of clouds. Estimate their height.

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“We are not a club or a Sunday school class, but a school of the woods.” – Robert Baden-Powell

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Leave No Trace Awareness Award

Cub Scout Leave No Trace Pledge

I promise to practice the Leave No Trace frontcountry guidelines wherever I go:

Plan ahead.

Stick to trails.

Manage your pet.

Leave what you find.

Respect other visitors.

Trash your trash.

Tiger Cub:

Discuss with your leader or parent/guardian the importance of the Leave No Trace frontcountry guidelines.

On three separate outings, practice the frontcountry guidelines of Leave No Trace.

Complete the activities for Achievement 5, Let’s Go Outdoors.

Participate in a Leave No Trace-related service project.

Promise to practice the Leave No trace frontcountry guidelines by signing the Cub Scout Leave No Trace Pledge.

Draw a poster to illustrate the Leave No Trace frontcountry guidelines and display it at a pack meeting.

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Wolf Cub:

Discuss with your leader or parent/guardian the importance of the Leave No Trace frontcountry guidelines.

On three separate outings, practice the frontcountry guidelines of Leave No Trace.

Complete Achievement 7, "Your Living World."

Participate in a Leave No Trace - related service project.

Promise to practice Leave No Trace frontcountry guidelines by signing the Cub Scout Leave No Trace Pledge.

Draw a poster to illustrate the Leave No Trace frontcountry guidelines and display it at a pack meeting.

Bear Cub:

Discuss with your leader or parent/guardian the importance of the Leave No Trace frontcountry guidelines.

On three separate outings, practice the frontcountry guidelines of Leave No Trace.

Complete Achievement 12, "Family Outdoor Adventures."

Participate in a Leave No Trace - related service project.

Promise to practice Leave No Trace frontcountry guidelines by signing the Cub Scout Leave No Trace Pledge.

Draw a poster to illustrate the Leave No Trace frontcountry guidelines and display it at a pack meeting.

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Webelos:

Discuss with your leader or parent/guardian the importance of the Leave No Trace frontcountry guidelines.

On three separate outings, practice the frontcountry guidelines of Leave No Trace.

Earn the Outdoorsman activity badge.

Participate in a Leave No Trace - related service project.

Promise to practice Leave No Trace frontcountry guidelines by signing the Cub Scout Leave No Trace Pledge.

Draw a poster to illustrate the Leave No Trace frontcountry guidelines and display it at a pack meeting.

Cub Scout Leader:

Discuss with your den's Cub Scouts or your pack's leaders the importance of the Leave No Trace frontcountry guidelines.

On three separate outings demonstrate and practice the frontcountry guidelines of Leave No Trace.

Participate in presenting a den, pack, district, or council awareness session on Leave No Trace frontcountry guidelines.

Participate in a Leave No Trace-related service project.

Commit yourself to the Leave No Trace frontcountry guidelines by signing the Cub Scout Leave No Trace Pledge.

Assist at least three boys in earning Cub Scouting's Leave No Trace Awareness Award.

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Cub/Boy Scout World Conservation Award

http://boyscouttrail.com/content/award/cub_scout_world_conservation-206.asp

http://boyscouttrail.com/content/award/boy_scout_world_conservation-239.asp

Florida’s State Forest Trailwalker Program

http://www.floridaforestservice.com/forest_recreation/twalker_trails.html

Florida’s State Forest Trailtrotter Program

http://www.floridaforestservice.com/forest_recreation/trailtrotter_index.html

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“Where is there a boy to whom the call of the wild and the open road does not appeal?” – Robert Baden-Powell

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St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD)

The SJRWMD manages over 50 properties with nearly 700,000 acres of land in its 18-county service area. Virtually all of these lands are open for public activities that are compatible with the conservation intent of the property. Many of the conservation lands have primitive camping. Individual camping sites are for up to six people and are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Group camping for seven or more people requires a reservation and permit from the District. Group campers must make reservations at least seven days in advance. Reservations for all District lands can be made online at https://secure.sjrwmd.com/camp/ctrlpnl.php. For camping, trail and other recreation information, call (386)329-4404.

Properties managed by the SJRWMD within the area served by the North Florida Council include:

Alachua County Nassau CountyNewnans Lake Conservation Area Ralph E. Simmons Memorial State ForestLongleaf Flatwoods ReserveLochloosa Wildlife Conservation Area Putnam CountyOrange Creek Restoration Area Rice Creek Conservation Area

Murphy Creek Conservation AreaBaker County Dunns Creek Conservation AreaJohn M. Bethea State Forest Caravelle Ranch Wildlife Management Area

Lake George Conservation AreaClay CountyJennings State Forest St. Johns CountyBlack Creek Ravines Conservation Area Twelve Mile Swamp Recreation AreaBayard Conservation Area Stokes Landing Conservation Area

Moses Creek Conservation AreaDuval CountyJulington-Durbin Preserve

Faver-Dykes State ParkMatanzas State Forest

Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park Deep Creek Conservation Area

Marion CountyOcklawaha Prairie Restoration AreaSunnyhill Restoration Area

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Park Lands in Alachua County

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Grove Park Wildlife Management Area

Contact Information:FWC: (386) 758-0525

Grove Park WMS is comprised of 16,437 acres of pine plantation with live oak ridges and hardwood swamps along Orange Lake in southeast Alachua County. The area is jointly managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Comission, St. Johns River Water management District, and Plum Creek Timber Company. Access to this area is only permitted to individuals possessing a valid recreational use permit except for two multiuse trails that may be accessed year round for hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, and horseback riding. Camping is prohibited on the WMA. Wildlife that may be seen onsite include bald eagle, wading birds, Florida black bear, fox squirrels, and sandhill cranes.

http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Grove-Park

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Lochloosa Wildlife Conservation Area

Contact Information:St. Johns River Water Management District: (386)329-4404FWC: (386) 758-0525

Lochloosa Wildlife Conservation Area is co-managed by the St. Johns River Water Management District and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The conservation area includes approximately 10,300 acres surrounding Lochloosa Lake in southeastern Alachua County. The property includes pine plantation, and water oak and live oak ridges. This property is located adjacent to Grove Park Wildlife Management Area and Longleaf Flatwoods Reserve. Wood stork, sandhill crane, eagles, osprey, Florida black bear, fox squirrel, and eastern indigo snake can be seen on the property. The area is a site on the great Florida Birding Trail.

Hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, canoeing, boating, and primitive camping are available onsite. Camping outside of the hunting season requires a permit from the St. Johns River Water Management District.

http://www.sjrwmd.com/recreationguide/lochloosa/index.htmlhttp://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Lochloosa

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Newnans Lake Conservation Area

Contact Information:St. John River Water Management District: (386)329-4404

Newnans Lake Conservation Area is comprised of three tracts totaling 6,504 acres. The three tracts are Hatchet Creek, North, and South. The St. Johns River Water Management District co-manages the Hatchet Creek Tract along with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Alachua County.

These tracts encompass nearly two miles of Newnans Lake shoreline and are part of the larger Orange Creek Basin conservation lands. The habitats include extensive floodplains of hardwood and cypress swamps. Portions of the Hatchet Creek Tract are managed for commercial timber production. The Hatchet Creek may experience temporary closures during timber harvest or hunting season. All tracts have a network of loop trails which are open to hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding. Wildlife viewing, fishing, and camping are also available. Group camping permits are required from the St. Johns River Water Management District. There is also a boat ramp are available on the South Tract.

http://floridaswater.com/recreationguide/newnanslake/http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Hatchet-Creek

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Watermelon Pond Wildlife and Environmental Area

Contact Information:FWC: (386) 758-0525

The Watermelon Pond Wildlife and Environmental Area consists of two tracts, Watermelon Pond (1,287 acres) and Goethe State Forest (2,944 acres), covering a total of 4,231 acres in southwestern Alachua County and northern Levy County. This property is located about 18 miles southwest of Gainesville.

This property was historically managed for cattle, timber and agricultural production. The land is currently managed for the benefit of gopher tortoise, Sherman’s fox squirrel, and other upland wildlife.

This property provides access for hunting, hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. There is an eight-mile loop trail on the Watermelon Pond tract which is connected to a seven-mile loop trail on the Goethe State Forest tract providing a total of 15 miles of mixed use trails. The trails are often located along firebreaks. Seasonal hunting is also permitted.

Public access is year-round from 1 ½ hours before sunrise until 1 ½ hours after sunset.

http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/mitigation/watermelon-pond/

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Park Lands in Baker County

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Osceola National Forest and Wildlife Management Area

Contact Information: Osceola Ranger District24974 US Highway 90Olustee, FL 32072(386)752-2577

Olustee Depot Visitor Center5892 N CR231Olustee, Florida 32072(386)752-0147

Osceola National Forest includes nearly 200,000 acres in Baker and Columbia counties. The Wildlife Management Area includes more than 266,000 acres and includes John M Bethea State Forest in addition to Osceola National Forest. Osceola National Forest was established in 1931 and was cutover and burned prior to that. The forest now has a variety of forested woodlands and swamps throughout. Olustee Battlefield, a Civil War battlefield, is reenacted each year on the third weekend in February.

Osceola offers a variety of recreational activities including hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, camping, fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing. There are a variety of camping sites within the National Forest. The majority of camping is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Campground camping with hookups and bathhouses is available at Hog Pen Landing and Ocean Pond Campground. Group camping is by reservation only and is available at The Landing. Facilities there include a sand beach, boat launch, picnic shelter, and restrooms with showers. Dispersed camping is primitive tent camping and is available throughout the forest except during hunting season (November thru January) when it is restricted to designated areas. There are no fees associated with dispersed camping. A 23-mile portion of the statewide Florida National Scenic Trail goes through the National Forest.

http://www.fs.usda.gov/osceola

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Park Lands in Bradford County

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Santa Fe Swamp Wildlife and Environmental Area

Contact Information: FWC: (386)758-0525

Sante Fe Swamp is located in southeastern Bradford County north of Little Lake Santa Fe. The area is 5,708 acres, covered mostly in floodplain swamp with mixed forest on the northeast side. The property is co-managed by the Suwannee River Water Management District, Florida Forest Service, and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Primitive hunting of deer, feral hogs, turkey, gray squirrel, and eastern cottontail rabbit is allowed during specified seasons. The site is designated as a primitive recreation site with hiking, bicycling, wildlife viewing, horseback riding, and hunting. Trails are located along the east access on SE 11th Avenue.

http://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?nid=245http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Santa-Fe-Swamp

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Park Lands in Clay County

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Bayard Conservation Area/Wildlife Management Area

Contact Information: SJRWMD: (386)329-4404

Bayard Conservation Area is located along the western bank of the St. Johns River, east of US 17, south of SR 16 in Clay County just southeast of Green Cove Springs and 12 miles south of Jacksonville. The property is 10,320 acres in size with 9,702 acres of it designated as a Wildlife Management Area. This property is co-managed by the St. Johns River Water Management District and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

The area consists of riverine bottomland hardwoods, pine flatwoods and sandhill communities. There are approximately seven miles of river frontage. A wide variety of species can be found on the property, including gopher tortoise, bald eagle, heron, eastern indigo snake, deer, and turkey, as well as woodland birds and manatee.

Recreational activities include bank fishing, hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, primitive camping, and canoeing. However, there are no boat launches located on the property. Seasonal hunting is permitted on areas 2, 3, and 4. Individual camping sites are for up to six people and are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Group camping for seven or more people requires a reservation and permit from the District. Group campers must make reservations at least seven days in advance. Reservations for all District lands can be made online at https://secure.sjrwmd.com/camp/ctrlpnl.php.

http://floridaswater.com/recreationguide/bayard/http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Bayard

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Belmore State Forest/Wildlife Management Area

Contact Information:Florida Forest Service Belmore State Forest4980 State Road 16 WStark, Florida 32091(904) 529-2357Jonathan.Daugherty@freshfromflorida.com

The Belmore Tract was acquired from Gilman Timberlands in 2005 and consists of 8,737 acres of primarily flatwood pine plantation. Other habitats include bay swamps, slope and bottomland forests, sandhill, dome swamp, depression marsh, and wetlands associated with Ates Creek, a tributary of Black Creek. The property is located in south-central Clay County, approximately 16 miles from Green Cove Springs. The Forest Service manages the area using a combination of timber harvesting and controlled burns. A variety of species can be found on this property, including songbirds, Florida black bear, gopher tortoise, Sherman’s fox squirrel, alligator, and eastern indigo snake.

Recreational activities include hunting, fishing, horseback riding, bicycling, and wildlife viewing. The property is crossed by a network of unpaved roads which are ideal for hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding. Hunting is permitted from September to March. The forest is open to the public year-round, from 1.5 hours before sunrise to 1.5 hours after sunset.

http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/belmore/

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Black Creek Ravines Conservation Area

Contact Information: SJRWMD: (386)329-4404

Black Creek Ravines is 965 acres located about one mile east of Middleburg, along the south bank of Black Creek. The area can be accessed on Green Road, north of CR 218. This tract has some of the most impressive topography in the area. The elevation ranges from 5 feet above sea level along to creek to 90 feet above sea level in the sandhills. The tract also includes seepage slopes and steep ravines. About 2.7 miles of Black Creek are located on the property.

The property has a diversity of natural communities, some classified as being imperiled in Florida because of the rarity and vulnerability. A variety of species can be found here, including gopher tortoise, pitcher plants, wading birds, pine snake, deer, bald eagle, otter, owl, bobcat, fox, raccoon, and alligator.

Recreational activities include hiking, horseback riding, fishing, primitive camping, wildlife viewing, and nature study. Boating and canoeing opportunities are available on Black Creek. However, there are no launches located on the property.

http://floridaswater.com/recreationguide/blackcreekravines/index.html

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Branan Field Wildlife and Environmental Area

The Branan Field Wildlife and Environmental Area is a 386-acre pine flatwood restoration area managed through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Mitigation Park Program. Management of the area is primarily focused on restoring and maintaining critical habitat for the gopher tortoise, Florida mouse and southeastern kestrel. The park is regularly burned to improve habitat.

This park is located on Branan Field Road, 13 miles southwest of Jacksonville and one-half mile northeast of Jennings Sate Forest. Recreational activities permitted on this area are limited to hiking on the three miles of trails and wildlife viewing. Vehicles and bicycles are not permitted on the trails. Wildlife that can be observed includes gopher tortoise, eastern bluebirds, wild turkey, deer, southeastern kestrels. The site consists mainly of pine flatwoods with a variety of colorful wildflowers and carnivorous plants.

http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/mitigation/Branan-Field

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Camp Blanding Wildlife Management Area

Contact Information:FWC: (386) 758-0525FWC: (904) 214-7533

The Camp Blanding Wildlife Management Area contains 56,197 acres located in western Clay County, east of Starke. This property is managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Florida Department of Military Affairs. The northern half of the area is planted pine plantation with remnant mature pine stands that support red-cockaded woodpeckers. Bottomland hardwood forests occur along the headwaters of Black Creek. The southern half of the area includes several thousand acres of sandhill with plentiful deer and turkey. A center section of the area is always closed due to military operations. Other parts of the area may also be closed periodically due to security concerns. Hunting, wildlife viewing and hiking are permitted when the area is open. For current status of the area contact the FWC Lake City Regional Office at (386) 758-0525 or (904) 214-7533.

http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Camp-Blanding

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Jennings State Forest & Wildlife Management Area

Contact Information: Florida Forest ServiceJennings State Forest1337 Longhorn Road Middleburg, FL 32068Telephone: (904) 291-5530

Jennings State Forest is 23,995 acres located about 16 miles southwest of Jacksonville and 10 miles west of Orange Park. It was purchased through the State of Florida’s Conservation and Recreation Lands Program, and the Save Our Rivers Program in cooperation with the St. Johns River Water Management District. The Florida Forest Service has management responsibility for the lands.

There are more than 15 different natural biological communities on Jennings State Forest. These include sandhill, slope forest, flatwoods, seepage slope, dome swamp, blackwater stream, and seepage stream, as well as others. Wildlife is plentiful and includes raccoon, otter, alligator, and wading birds along Black Creek and its tributaries, and deer, turkey, hawks, and a variety of song birds throughout the forest.

The forest is open during daylight hours for hiking, bicycling, canoeing, horseback riding, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Two of the trails, the North Fork Black Creek Trail (5 miles) and Fire and Water Trail (1.7 miles), are included in the Florida Trailwalker Hiking Program. Canoeing is available on North Fork and Black Creeks with several landings along the waterways. However, canoes must be carried over rough terrain and four-wheel drive is required to reach launch areas 1 and 2. Seasonal hunting is also permitted within the forest. Primitive camping is available by permit only.

http://www.floridaforestservice.com/state_forests/jennings.html http://floridaswater.com/recreationguide/jennings/index.htmlhttp://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Jennings-Forest

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Park Lands in Columbia County

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Alligator Lake Fish Management Area

Contact Information:FWC: (386)758-0525

Columbia County Parks & Recreation(386)719-7545Clint_pittman@columbiacountyfla.com

Alligator Lake is co-managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Columbia County, and Ducks Unlimited. The 1,000-acre property includes an 800-acre shallow impoundment which is managed for fishing and waterfowl hunting. The site provides excellent bird watching opportunities and is included on the Great Florida Birding Trail. Ring-necked ducks, blue-winged teal, wood ducks, and coots are regular visitors to the impoundment. Rare species such as the masked duck, rusty blackbird, ruff, and vermillion flycatcher have also been seen on the property.

Hunting, fishing, hiking, biking, canoeing, and wildlife viewing are supported on this property. The levees and trails provide twelve miles of hiking and biking trails. Common catches for fishing include bluegill, redear sunfish, black crappie, largemouth bass, gar, and bowfin. There are three separate boat launches for boats and canoes. There are also picnic areas, restrooms and other facilities available onsite which can be reserved from Columbia County Parks and Recreation Department.

The area is open year-round during daylight hours except during hunting season.

http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Alligator-Lakehttp://www.columbiacountyfla.com/ParksandRecreation.asp

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Park Lands in Dixie County

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Log Landing Wildlife Management Area

Contact Information: Suwannee River Water Management District: (800)868-9914FWC: (386)758-0525

Log Landing Wildlife Management Area is co-managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Suwannee River Water Management District. This property is 1,147 acres and is located along the banks of the Suwannee River in northeastern Dixie County. The river forms the 4.5 mile eastern boundary.

Habitats include floodplain swamp along the river, upland mixed forest, sandhill, and bottomland forest. Wildlife species include limpkin, heron, ibis, swallow-tailed kite, Mississippi kite, deer, squirrel, gopher tortoise, otter and various turtles.

Recreational activities include hunting, fishing, horseback riding, hiking, bicycling, and wildlife viewing. The property is classified as a primitive recreation site. Seasonal hunting takes place from September to March. The forest is open for public use year-round from 1.5 hours before sunrise until 1.5 hours after sunset.

http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Log-Landinghttp://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?nid=240

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Steinhatchee Springs Wildlife Management Area

Contact Information:FWC: (386)758-0525Suwannee River Water Management District: (386)362-1001

The Steinhatchee Springs WMA includes almost 21,000 acres in southwestern Lafayette County, northwest Dixie County, and southeastern Taylor County. The natural communities include floodplain swamps of the Steinhatchee River, mesic flatwood, wet flatwood, and pine plantation. Wildlife includes gopher tortoise, American alligator, heron, ibis, swallow-tailed kite, turkey, feral hogs, deer, bobcat, Florida black bear, and squirrel.

The property is considered a primitive recreation site. Visitors can take part in wildlife viewing, fishing, hunting, bicycling, hiking, and horseback riding. Interior lands have limited access due to their swampy nature and lack of roads. There are multiple access areas which lead to the river. Camping is permitted only during non-hunting periods and requires a permit from the Suwannee River Water Management District.

http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Steinhatchee-Springshttp://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?nid=185

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Park Lands in Duval County

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Big Talbot Island State Park

Contact Information:State Road A1A NorthJacksonville, FL 3226(904)251-2320

Big Talbot Island is well known for its bluffs and drift wood beaches. This park is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail. Due to the fragile nature of the park visitors should be careful to remain on trails while exploring the area. There are two trails, the Black Rock Trail and Big Pine Trail. Bicycling is permitted on Black Rock Trail but it is not advisable to bike on the beach due the number of fallen trees. There is also a new 3 mile paved bike trail along A1A. Additionally, hikers can use the Shoreline Trail along the beach, and Old Kings Highway Trail and Jones Cut Trail on the west side of A1A.

Fishing is permitted from the beach and along Nassau Sound. Kayaks and canoes can be rented from Kayak Amelia at (904)251-3316 or you can bring your own.

http://www.floridastateparks.org/bigtalbotisland/default.cfm

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Cary State Forest & Wildlife Management Area

Contact Information:Devon McFall, ForesterCary State ForestFlorida Forest Serice7465 Pavilion DriveBryceville, Florida 32009(904)266-5021 (weekdays)(904)266-5020 (weekends)Devon.mcfall@freshfromflorida.com

Cary State Forest covers 13,045 acres and was established in the mid-1930s as one of the original Florida State Forests. The Forest is located along the Duval-Nassau County line and is so-managed by the Florida Forest Service and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

The ecosystems on Cary State Forest include longleaf pine/wiregrass, mesic flatwoods, wet flatwoods, baygall, and cypress ponds. Wildlife is plentiful and includes turkey, bobcat, wild hog, deer, great horned owl, pileated woodpecker, Sherman’s fox squirrel, gopher tortoise, and Florida black bear.

Recreational activities include hiking, primitive camping, wildlife viewing, horseback riding, and hunting. Restroom facilities and showers are available for campers. A State Forest Use Permit is required for all camping and reservations are recommended since campsites are on a first-come, first-serve basis. The1.2 mile Nature Trail is included in the Forest Service’s Trailwalker Program.

http://floridaforestservice.com/state_forests/cary.htmlhttp://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Cary

42

Fort Caroline National Memorial

Contact Information:12713 Fort Caroline RoadJacksonville, FL 32225(904)641-7155

Fort Caroline National Memorial is part of the 46,000 acre Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve. The park consists of the Fort exhibit (over 133 acres) and the Theodore Roosevelt Area (600 acres). This property has been inhabited by humans for over 6,000 years and is the site of a French settlement in 1564 which was taken by the Spanish in 1565. Visitors can visit the replica fort and visitor center to learn more about the early history of the property. There are over three miles of trails on the property allowing you to see a variety of habitats from coastal forest to salt marsh. The site is home to many wading birds which can be viewed from the observation platform located at the end of the Spanish Pond Trail. Some of the trails are accessible for bikes but many are narrow and winding and are only open to hikers.

http://www.nps.gov/timu/index.htm

43

Fort George Island Cultural State Park

Contact Information:State Road A1A SouthJacksonville, FL 32226(904)251-2320

Fort George Island Cultural State Park is part of the Little Talbot Island Parks complex. The site has been occupied by humans for over 5,000 years. It was the site of a fort built in 1736 and a plantation with slave quarters. In addition to the plantation you can visit the Ribault Club, an exclusive resort during the early 1900s and take a tour through its museum and visitor center.

In addition to the historical significance of the sites, visitors can launch canoes and kayaks, rent segways from EcoMotion Tours, hike, bicycle, fish, and watch wildlife. Reservations for the Segway tours can be made in advance by calling (904)251-9477. Bicycling can be done on the 4.4 mile paved/hard pack loop or the 3 mile off-road trail. The 3 mile off-road trail is also used by hikers and traverses the old golf course.

This park is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail and the Trail of Florida’s Indian Heritage.

http://www.floridastateparks.org/fortgeorgeisland/default.cfm

44

Huguenot Memorial Park

Contact Information:JaxParks Admin Office 214 N. Hogan St., 3rd FloorJacksonville, FL 32202 (904) 251-3335jaxparks@coj.net

Huguenot Park is located at 10980 Heckscher Drive. This park is approximately 450 acres and is surrounded on three sides by water – the Atlantic Ocean to the east, St. Johns River to the south and Ft. George Inlet to the west. Huguenot Park is home to a variety of shore birds, some of which are protected species. In addition to the shorebirds, visitors can find sea turtles nesting along the beach, manatees and dolphins along the shore, and a variety of mammals including raccoons, opossums, and foxes in the dune areas. This beach is famous for the jetties and for the fact that it is one of the few remaining beaches where cars can be driven on the beach.

Activities include a nature center which is open 2:00-5:00 daily during the summer and 2:00-5:00 Friday, Saturday and Sunday during the winter. Visitors can also camp, fish, bird watch, canoe, and take part in beach activities. Camping is $11.30 for interior sites and $16.95 for water front sites. The park is open 8:00 am – 8:00 pm April-October and 8:00 am – 6:00 pm November-March. Park admission is $1 per person.

http://www.coj.net/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation-and-community-programming/huguenot-memorial-park--main.aspx

45

Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens

Contact Information:1445 Millcoe Rd.Jacksonville, FL 32225

The Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens is open 7 days a week, year round, from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (winter) and 8:00 am – 7:00 pm (summer). This park is managed by volunteers and consists of 120 acres of wooded land. Even though the park is smaller than some, it has a great variety of habitats represented. Visitors can easily see bottom land hardwood, pine forest, xeric scrub, rosemary scrub, intermittent ponds, cypress wetlands, creek floodplains, fresh water pond, and tidal salt marsh in a short walk around the property. There is even a national champion loblolly bay tree.

The park has a variety of volunteer opportunities and ample Eagle Scout projects for the Scouts to use as service projects. New areas are constantly being opened up so trail maps are usually out of date within a short time.

Visitors can take part in hiking along the more than 3 miles of trails and wildlife viewing. There is a good chance that you can see gopher tortoises, a protected species, while walking around the pond. Additionally there are a great variety of birds, reptiles and mammals that can be found onsite. The pond is home to bream, shinners and largemouth bass as well as several species of turtles and anhinga. Take a snack and feed the fish from the deck at the back of the pond.

http://www.jacksonvillearboretum.org

46

Jacksonville-Baldwin Trail

Contact Information: City of Jacksonville851 N Market StreetJacksonville, FL 32202(904) 630-4100 jaxparks.com

The Jacksonville-Baldwin Trail is built along a former railroad corridor and is part of the Florida Greenways and Trails program. There are three separate trails, including a multi-use asphalt trail, an off-road bike trail, and an equestrian trail. The main trail runs a total of 14.5 miles between Imeson Road and Brandy Ranch Road with parking lots and restroom facilities at the trailhead and near the middle of the trail. There is ample parking at the trailheads. The trail is located on Jacksonville’s Westside north of I-10 and Beaver Street. The main trail is 12’ wide, paved, and marked with mile markers which makes it ideal for activities such as hiking, bicycling, and roller/inline skating. The trail traverses a diversity of natural habitats including pine flatwoods, wetlands, and hardwood uplands which provide shade cover along much of the trail. Camp Milton, a site rich in Civil War history is located near the middle of the trail. Camp Milton was constructed as the first line of defense for Jacksonville in early 1864 and housed 8,000 troops. The Union occupied the camp in the summer of 1864. There is now an educational center and a Florida cracker farmstead located on the site. The trail is free to the public and is open from sunrise until sunset, year-round.

http://www.dep.state.fl.us/gwt/guide/regions/north/trails/jacksonville_baldwin.htm

47

Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park

Contact Information:JaxParks Admin Office 214 N. Hogan St., 3rd FloorJacksonville, FL 32202(904) 249-4700hannapark@coj.net

Hanna Park is located off Wonderwood Drive in Mayport. This park includes 450 acres of coastal forest with 1.5 miles of beach. Activities include over 20 miles of bike trails, a 60-acre fresh water lake, kayaking, pedal boats, canoes, fishing, camping, picnic areas, disc golf, and a splash park.

Hours of operation are 8:00 am – 8:00 pm April-October and 8:00 am – 6:00 pm November-March. There is an entrance fee of $1 per person from 8:00 am – 10:00 am or $3 per car (up to 6 people) after 10:00 am. Tent camping fees are $20.34 per night. In addition to tent camping there are RV parking and cabin areas.

http://www.coj.net/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation-and-community-programming/kathryn-abbey-hanna-park.aspx

48

Little Talbot Island State Park

Contact Information: 12157 Heckscher DriveJacksonville, FL 32226(904)251-2320

Little Talbot Island has more than 5 miles of white sandy beaches and is one of the few remaining undeveloped barrier islands along the east coast. The island has several trails including the 1 mile Nature Trail and 4 mile Dune Ridge Trail. Bicycling is permitted on the 2.5 mile park road or along the beach. The park does have bicycle rentals. There is a 40 campsite full facility camp area. Long Island Outfitters provides canoe and kayak rentals for visitors. There is a $1 per person launch fee if you provide your own canoe/kayak. Additionally, if you want to try something new, EcoMotion Tours provides Segway tours of the park. If you are interested in the Segway tours, reservations can be made by calling (904)251-9477. Between the beach, trails, and creeks, there is ample opportunity to see a variety of wildlife within the park.

http://www.floridastateparks.org/littletalbotisland/default.cfm

49

Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park

Contact Information:Pumpkin Hill Preserve (904) 696-5980Talbot Island State Park (904) 251-2320

Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve is a 3,895 acre preserve located in northeastern Duval County, about 12 miles north of downtown Jacksonville. It is adjacent to the National Park Service’s Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, the Nassau River-St. Johns River Marshes Aquatic Preserve, and the city of Jacksonville’s Betz-Tiger Point and Cedar Point properties.

The preserve includes a variety of habitats, including mesic flatwoods, xeric hammock, scrubby flatwoods, dome swamp, tidal marshes, cypress domes, and four different creek and marsh systems. The land is managed by the Florida State Parks and the St. Johns River Water Management District.

Hiking, horseback riding, bicycling, wildlife viewing, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and interpretive programs are available on this land. There is a boat launch located at the end of Cedar Point Road. Owls, hawks, eagles, wood storks, and a variety of wading birds are commonly seen on this property.

http://floridaswater.com/recreationguide/pumpkinhillcreek/index.html

50

Thomas Creek Wildlife Management Area – King’s Road Unit

The Thomas Creek Wildlife Management Area – King’s Road Unit occupies 2,429 acres in northern Duval County, just 3 miles from the Jacksonville International Airport. This is one of five units for the Thomas Creek Conservation Area which totals 5,540 acres in Nassau and Duval counties. Approximately 10 miles of Thomas Creek flows through the property. The St. Johns River Water Management District manages this land while the City of Jacksonville manages the recreation.

The area was formerly managed for commercial timber and much of the upland area consists of slash pine. The floodplain swamps along Thomas Creek are dominated by cypress, tupelo, and titi. Wildlife in the area includes deer, turkey, wild hog, bobwhite, and a variety of songbirds. Turtles and otters can be found along the creek.

Recreational opportunities on the area include wildlife viewing, hiking, horseback riding, canoeing, fishing, and bicycling. There are two trail loops with parking areas located on both sides of US Hwy 1. Hunting is permitted on limited days between September and April. Fishing is permitted year-round. The area is open to the public year-round from sunrise to sunset.

http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/thomas-creek-kings-road-unit/

51

Yellow Bluff Fort Historic State Park

Contact Information:New Berlin RoadJacksonville, FL 32226(904)251-2320

Yellow Bluff Fort is an earthen Civil War era encampment located near the north end of the Dames Point Bridge. The site was occupied by both Confederate as well as Union troops and housed as many as 250 soldiers at one time. The site covers about 1.3 acres on Yellow Bluff.

Period reenactments occur annually. Due to the small size of this park there are limited recreational activities.

http://www.floridastateparks.org/yellowbluff/default.cfm

52

Park Lands in Gilchrist County

53

Fort White Wildlife and Environmental Area

Contact Information:FWC: (386)758-0525

Fort White is a 1,610 acre area established in 1998 through the FWC Mitigation Park Program. The property is managed to protect species such as the gopher tortoise and Sherman’s fox squirrel. In addition to these species you may see a variety of birds, deer, turkey, indigo snake, diamondback rattlesnake, river otters, beaver, and manatee. Over half of the property consists of sandhills with wiregrass and longleaf pine. Fort White, a military outpost during Florida’s territorial period once stood on the property. The area has one mile of Santa Fe River front which is permits bank fishing and is accessible to canoe and kayak. There are also three miles of trails for biking and hiking.

The area is open to the public year round from 1 ½ hours before sunrise until 1 ½ hours after sunset except during hunting season.

http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/mitigation/Fort-White

54

Suwannee Street Tract

Contact Information:Suwannee River Water Management District: (800)226-1066

Suwannee Street Tract includes 624 acres along the Suwannee River adjacent to the Log Landing Wildlife Management Area. The tract includes floodplain swamp, upland mixed forest, sandhill, and bottom land forest. There are several state champion trees and a national champion water locust located on this tract.

Wildlife species such as limpkin, heron, swallow-tailed kite, ibis, gopher tortoise, deer, turkey, and squirrel can be found on the property. Recreational uses include wildlife viewing, fishing, bicycling, hiking, horseback riding, and canoe/kayak. Boat ramps are located to the north and south of the property. This property is considered a primitive recreation site.

http://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?nid=240

55

Park Lands in Hamilton County

56

Big Shoals State Forest

Contact Information:Florida Forest ServiceBig Shoals State Forest7620 133rd RoadLive Oak, FL 32060Telephone: 386/ 208-1460steven.carpenter@freshfromflorida.com

Big Shoals State Forest consists of 1,673 acres of the 3,919 acre Big Shoals Public Lands. The dominant community type on this tract is mesic flatwoods, however upland mixed forests, basin swamps, and cypress domes are also present. Four Mile Branch flows through Big Shoals on it way to the Suwannee River. Big Shoals is bounded to the south by the Suwannee River.

The Forest provides habitat for deer, turkey, bobcat, Florida black bear, and fox squirrel.

Hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, fishing, canoeing, and hunting are permitted on the property. Portions of the hiking and horseback riding trails are included in the Florida Forest Service’s Trailwalker and Trailtrotter Programs. A canoe launch is located on the northern section of the river. There is also a four-mile paved bicycle trail.

http://floridaforestservice.com/state_forests/big_shoals.html

57

Big Shoals Wildlife Management Area

Contact Information:FWC:

Big Shoals WMA covers 2,140 acres located adjoining Big Shoals State Park in southeastern Hamilton County. The area stretches along three miles of bluffs above the Suwannee River and includes the largest whitewater rapids in the state.

Hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, hiking, bicycling, canoeing, and horseback riding are permitted in this area.

http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Big-Shoals

58

Big Shoals, Falling Creek & Bell Springs

Contact Information:Suwannee River Water Management District: (800)868-9914

These tracts are part of the Big Shoals Public Lands. Big Shoals is 3,772 acres consisting of floodplain forest with upland mixed forest and seep slope forest along. Falling Creek is 504 acres consisting mostly of floodplain swamp with a mixture of basin swamp, mixed forest, upland mixed forest, upland pine forest, and bottomland forest. Bell Springs is 54 acres. The limestone bluffs along the Suwannee River reach up to 80 feet in some areas.

There are a total of 28 miles of trails, including the paved multi-use Woodpecker Trail in Big Shoals. Falling Creek and Bell Springs are primitive recreation area. The Florida Trail traverses the tract along the river. Horseback riding is permitted along the network of roads. Additionally, there are opportunities for hiking, bicycling, canoeing, fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing.

http://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?NID=161

59

Cypress Creek Wildlife Management Area

Contact Information:FWC: (386)758-0525Suwanee River Water Management District: (800)868-9914

The Cypress Creek WMA consists of floodplain forests and planted pine along 10 miles of the upper Suwannee River. The WMA is managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and consists of two tracts: Turner Bridge (207 acres) and Roline (921 acres). Additional lands which are managed by the Suwannee River Water Management District include Cypress Creek South (21 acres), Levings (193 acres), and Hopewell (550 acres). The Turner Bridge, Roline, and Cypress Creek South tracts are located in northeastern Hamilton County. The Levings and Hopewell tracts are in northwest Columbia County.

All the tracts are primitive recreation sites. Picnic pavilions are provided at Turner Bridge. Recreational activities include fishing, wildlife viewing, hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, canoeing/kayaking, and boating. Boat ramps are located on the Turner Bridge and Roline tracts. However, caution should be taken when boating during low water periods. Hunting is permitted on the Turner Bridge and Roline tracts

A variety of wildlife including deer, beaver, turkey, wild hogs, raccoon, swallow-tailed kites, and owls can be found on the tracts.

http://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?nid=225http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Cypress-Creek

60

Deese and Withlacoochee Hills Tracts

Contact Information:Florida Forest Service: (386)208-1460

The Deese Tract, totaling 100 acres, is managed by the Florida Division of Forestry as part of Twin Rivers State Forest. The Withlacoochee Hills Tract is 146 acres and is managed by the Suwannee River Water Management District.

The Withlacoochee Hills Tract includes sandhill, bottomland forest, and xeric hammock communities. The Dreese tract consists of sandhill, mixed hardwood, and upland hardwood communities.

The Withlacoochee Hills Tract is a primitive recreation area, with trails accessible only by river. Wildlife viewing, hiking, horseback riding, and bicycling are available on the Dreese Tract.

http://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?nid=237

61

Holton Creek

Contact Information:Suwanee River Water Management District: (800)868-9914

The 2,536 acre Holton Creek tract is located in southwestern Hamilton County. This tract is jointly managed by the Suwanee River Water Management District, Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, and Florida Forest Service. The property contains sandhill, upland mixed forest, bottom land forest, floodplain swamp, and bluff. Wildlife that can be expected on the property includes gopher tortoise, heron, egret, deer, turkey, peregrine falcon, and squirrel.

Holton Creek provides opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, and hunting. The Holton Creek Camp is the second river camp along the Suwanee River Wilderness Trail between White Springs and Brandford and provides 5 screened shelters, a picnic pavilion, restrooms with hot showers, and a tent-camping area.

The Florida Trail traverses this property. The property is also a site on the Great Florida Birding Trail. The Suwannee Ridge Wildlife and Environmental Area is located to the north while Trillium Slopes is located to the south of this area.

http://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?nid=169http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Holton-Creek

62

Potash Corp – White Springs Wildlife Management Area

Contact Information:FWC: (386)758-0525Reservations: (386)397-8313

Potash Corp – White Springs WNA is an active phosphate mining area in southeast Hamilton County. There are four phosphate settling ponds covering nearly 4,000 acres. The ponds are home to a great variety of waterfowl including white pelicans, shovelers, blue- and green-winged teal, black-bellied whistling ducks, and occasional rarities like red-necked phalaropes and black terns. This area is on the Great Florida Birding Trail. Access to the property for bird watching, is by advance reservation on the first and third Saturdays of October, February, March, April, and May. Groups can hike or drive along the dikes around the settling ponds. Waterfowl hunting is also permitted on this property. Reservations can be made by calling (386)397-8313.

http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Potash-Corp-White-Springs

63

Suwannee Ridge Wildlife and Environmental Area

Contact Information:FWC: (386)758-0525

Suwanee Ridge is 1,428 acres which is managed to restore longleaf pine/wiregrass habitat as part of the FWC’s Mitigation Park Program. The area is located between Jasper and Live Oak. To the south is the Holton Creek Wildlife Management Area which is managed by the Suwanee River Water Management District.

The site is actively managed with prescribed burns to promote the growth of pine-wiregrass communities. Low lying areas are dominated by live oak, water oak, sweetgum, and hickory. There are also scattered cypress, maple, and sweetbay wetlands. You can expect to see turkey, wood duck, various songbirds, gopher tortoise, pine snake, deer, and Mississippi kite at various times of the year.

The property has 12 miles of unpaved roads and a one-mile nature trail. The site is open to hunting, wildlife viewing, and hiking. However, vehicles, bikes, and horses are not permitted on the trails.

http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/mitigation/Suwannee-Ridge

64

Twin Rivers State Forest and Wildlife Management Area

Contact Information:Florida Forest ServiceTwin Rivers State Forest7620 133rd RoadLive Oak, Florida 32060(386)208-1460Steven.carpenter@freshfromflorida.com

FWC: (386)758-0525

Twin Rivers State Forest comprises 14 noncontiguous tracts totaling 14,882 acres in western Hamilton, eastern Madison and northwestern Suwannee counties. The properties are managed by the Florida Forest Service, Suwannee River Water Management District, and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission manages approximately 11,000 acres in the Withlacoochee, Blue Springs, Ellaville, Anderson Springs, Black, North Mill Creek, and South Mill Creek Tracts as the Twin Rivers Wildlife Management Area. Hunting is permitted on the WMA tracts during specified seasons.

The tracts are located along the Withlacoochee and Suwannee Rivers and most of the land is within the 100-year floodplain. Natural communities include river bottom hardwoods, upland hardwoods, natural pine, pine plantation, and sinkhole communities. Wildlife such as deer, bobwhite quail, bobcat, otter, beaver, alligator, and turkey are found on the tracts.

These areas are included on the Great Florida Birding Trail, the Florida Scenic Trail, Suwannee River Wilderness Trail, and the Trailtrotter and Trailwalker Programs. Hunting is permitted in specified areas within the WMA. Additionally, fishing, wildlife viewing, canoeing, horseback riding, hiking, bicycling, and primitive camping are permitted. Picnicking facilities are also available.

http://floridaforestservice.com/state_forests/twin_rivers.htmlhttp://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Twin-Rivershttp://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?nid=237http://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?NID=238http://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?nid=172

65

Park Lands in Lafayette County

66

Mallory Swamp Wildlife Management Area

Contact Information:Suwannee River Water Management District: (800)226-1066recreation@srwmd.state.fl.us FWC: (386)758-0525

Mallory Swamp WMA includes more than 31,300 acres in southeastern Lafayette County. It is co-managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Suwannee River Water Management District. The site consists of cypress swamps, titi swamp, peat bogs, and upland forests. A severe wildfire swept through the area in 2001 and much of the area is still recovering from the effects.

Recreational activities include hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, horseback riding, hiking, and bicycling. There is a designated ATV trail that is open from late April to late September. Wildlife includes deer, feral hogs, Florida black bear, alligator, turkey, limpkin, wood stork, and various wading birds. There are nearly 100 miles of trail roads throughout the area. Camping is prohibited. The area is open year round.

http://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?NID=184http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Mallory-Swamp

67

Owens Springs, Walker, Adams Tracts

Contact Information:Suwannee River Water Management District: (800)868-9914FWC: (386)758-0525

The Owens Springs (474 acres), Walker (191 acres), and Adams (983 acres) Tracts are located along the south bank of the Suwannee River in northeastern Lafayette County. These properties are generally characterized as sandhill, floodplain swamp, pine plantation, and bottom land forest. They are habitat for gopher tortoise, deer, turkey, Florida mouse, and squirrel. These tracts are located adjacent to Little River Wildlife Management Area and Troy Springs State Park.

The Adams Tract is part of the Troy Springs Wildlife Management Area and offers small game hunting. All of the tracts are part of the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail. Visitors can take part in wildlife viewing, fishing, hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding. A river camp for canoe/kayak users is being constructed on the Adams Tract which will provide five sleeping platforms, a picnic area, restrooms with hot showers, and a group camping area.

http://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?nid=177http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Troy-Springs

68

Steinhatchee Springs Wildlife Management Area

Contact Information:FWC: (386)758-0525Suwannee River Water Management District: (386)362-1001

The Steinhatchee Springs WMA includes almost 21,000 acres in southwestern Lafayette County, northwest Dixie County, and southeastern Taylor County. The natural communities include floodplain swamps of the Steinhatchee River, mesic flatwood, wet flatwood, and pine plantation. Wildlife includes gopher tortoise, American alligator, heron, ibis, swallow-tailed kite, turkey, feral hogs, deer, bobcat, Florida black bear, and squirrel.

The property is considered a primitive recreation site. Visitors can take part in wildlife viewing, fishing, hunting, bicycling, hiking, and horseback riding. Interior lands have limited access due to their swampy nature and lack of roads. There are multiple access areas which lead to the river. Camping is permitted only during non-hunting periods and requires a permit from the Suwannee River Water Management District.

http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Steinhatchee-Springshttp://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?nid=185

69

Troy Springs Wildlife Management Area

Contact Information: FWC: (386)758-0525Suwannee River Water Management District: (800)868-9914

Troy Springs Wildlife Management Area includes approximately 1,800 acres on three parcels of land. These parcels include Adams (983 acres), Walker (191 acres), and Ruth Springs (649 acres) Tracts. Troy Springs State Park is located between the Walker and Ruth Springs Tracts. These properties are located along the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail and provide habitat for deer, turkey, cottontail rabbit, squirrel, wild hog, gopher tortoise, and a variety of bird species. The land is mostly floodplain forest.

Recreational activities include hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, hunting, fishing, and canoe/kayaking. A river camp is under construction on the Adams Tract. This will provide a group camping area, sleeping platforms, picnic area, restrooms, and hot showers. A canoe launce is located on the Ruth Springs Tract.

http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Troy-Springshttp://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?nid=177http://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?nid=234

70

Park Lands in Levy County

71

Andrews Wildlife Management Area

Contact Information:FWC: (386)758-0525

Andrews Wildlife Management Area consists of 3,582 acres of upland hardwood forest, xeric hammock, floodplain swamp, floodplain forest, and pine plantation located along the Lower Suwannee River. This is the largest contiguous intact upland hardwood forest in that region. There are three miles of shoreline along the Suwannee River. The property is managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Suwannee River Water Management District.

Recreational activities on this property include fishing, wildlife viewing, hiking, biking, canoe/kayak, and primitive camping. There are three miles of trails and thirteen miles of unpaved roads which can be used for hiking and biking. The paved Nature State Coast Rail Trail is located one mile to the east of the main entrance on NW 160th Street. The property is also located on the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail. There are boat launch facilities at the picnic area. Additionally the property can be accessed from the Suwannee River by the boat dock. Primitive camping is allowed by special permit and boaters are permitted to camp overnight at designated spots. Wildlife in the area includes turkey, deer, gopher tortoise, raccoons, wild hogs, and songbirds.

The area is open year round from ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset except for during the limited hunting season when the park is closed to non-hunting uses.

http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/lead/Andrewshttp://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?nid=241

72

Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve & Wildlife Management Area

Contact Information: Cedar Key Scrub State Park8312 SW 125th CourtCedar Key, Florida 32625(352)543-5567

Cedar Key WMA is a 4,988 acre tract of tidal marsh, cypress swamp, scrub oak, and flatwoods co-managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. It is located north of Cedar Key. The park is bisected by CR 347.

A variety of wildlife including roseate spoonbills, wood storks, indigo snake, Florida scrub-jay, bald eagle, and deer can be found in the park. Hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, saltwater fishing, canoeing/kayaking, and hunting are all permitted onsite. The trails consist of multi-use jeep trails and firebreaks totaling four miles on the east portion and 8 miles on the western portion.

The park provides scrub jay walks by appointment. This program combines a walk in the scrub and a discussion of the local scrub jay population. If you are interested call them in advance of your visit.

The park is open year round from 8:00 am until sundown.

http://www.floridastateparks.org/cedarkeyscrub/default.cfmhttp://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Cedar-Key-Scrub

73

Devil’s Hammock

Contact Information:Levy County: (352)486-5218Suwanee River Water Management District: (800)868-9914FWC: (386)758-0525

Devil’s Hammock comprises more than 7,600 acres in north central Levy County along the Waccasassa River and Otter Creek. The property is co-managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Suwannee River Water management District (4,274 acres), and Levy County (3,500 acres).

The natural communities include mixed hardwood forest, bottom land forest, basin swamp, depression marsh, dome swamp, floodplain swamp, and pine plantation. Wildlife includes Florida black bear, American alligator, wood stork, wild hog, deer, otter, and turkey.

Wildlife viewing, fishing, hunting, canoe/kayak, hiking, horseback riding, and bicycling are permitted on the property. There are two canoe launches on the property. Group camping permits are available from the Levy County Commission outside the hunting season. Picnic facilities are available at the river camp entrance. Devil’s Hammock adjoins Blue Springs Park.

http://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?NID=179http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Devils-Hammock

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Goethe State Forest

Contact Information:Florida Forest ServiceGoethe State Forest9110 SE CR 337Dunnellon, FL 34431Telephone: (352) 465-8585Sherry.Bennett@freshfromflorida.com

Goethe State Forest covers a total of 53,587 acres in Levy and Alachua counties. The land was purchased in 1992 under Florida’s Conservation and Recreation Lands Program. The property has more than 15 different natural communities including scrubby flatwoods, dome swamp, sandhill, and basin swamp. The Forest may contain the largest tract of contiguous, old-growth longleaf pine flatwoods in the state. This habitat is important for the continued survival of the red-cockaded woodpecker, and endangered species. The property is also home to the Florida black bear, gopher tortoise, Sherman’s fox squirrel, and bald eagle.

The trail system consists of three trailheads, two of which are included in the Florida State Forest’s Trailwalker Hiking Program. Bicycling, horseback riding, fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing, and overnight primitive camping are permitted. Overnight camping in the State Forest requires a permit. Additionally, there are private campgrounds located nearby. The Forest is open to the public during daylight hours.

http://floridaforestservice.com/state_forests/goethe.html

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Park Lands in Marion County

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Gore’s Landing Unit Wildlife Management Area

Contact Information:

Gore’s Landing is part of the Ocklawaha River Wildlife Management Area. This parcel is co-managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Office of Greenways and Trails. The parcel consists of almost 3,000 acres along the Ocklawaha River between Gore’s Landing and CR 316. The property is part of the Cross FloridaGreenway.

This property is characterized by hydric hammock and flatwoods, with scrub ridges. Wild turkey, deer, and wading birds are abundant throughout the property. Recreational activities include hunting, wildlife viewing, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and canoe/kayak. Camping is not permitted on this property. However, camping is permitted on the County managed land at Gore’s Landing to the south of the WMS.

http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Gores-Landing

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Park Lands in Nassau County

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Amelia Island State Park

Contact Information: State Road A1A NorthJacksonville, Florida 32226(904)251-2320

Amelia Island State Park is part of the Talbot Islands State Parks complex. This park is over 200 acres of beaches, salt marsh and coastal maritime forest located at the southern tip of Amelia Island on the Nassau Sound. The beaches are renourished regularly so this site is a good place to hunt for sharks teeth and other fossils.

The park is one of the few locations on the east coast which allows for horseback riding on the beach and vendors provide riding tours. Visitors can also take part in fishing along Nassau Sound and the Atlantic Ocean or fish from the mile-long George Crady Bridge Fishing Pier.

For horseback tour reservations call Kelly Seahorse Ranch at (904)491-5166.

http://www.floridastateparks.org/ameliaisland/default.cfm

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Fort Clinch State Park

Contact Information: 2601 Atlantic AvenueFernandina Beach, FL 32034Phone: (904)277-7274

Fort Clinch is a well preserved 19th century fort. The forts was used during the Civil War and the Spanish-American War but no battles were fought there. There are re-enactors at the fort who can explain the history of the fort. Fort Clinch State Park is approximately 1,400 acres located within the 7,600 acre Fort Clinch State Park Aquatic Preserve.

Fort Clinch offers over 6 miles of hiking and biking trails, 3.3 miles of paved roads, as well as geocaching, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, wildlife viewing, beach activities, and 61 camp sites and 4 sites for youth camping which can hold up to 75 campers. Reservations for youth camping can be made by calling (904)277-7274. Other campers should call (800)326-3521. Canoeing and kayaking in Cumberland Sound are considered dangerous due to the strong currents and ships travelling in the area and is recommended only for experienced boaters. It is recommended that unexperienced boaters use Egans Creek since there is less traffic and the currents are not as strong.

If you are lucky you may even see a Navy submarine in the Cumberland Sound.

http://www.floridastateparks.org/fortclinch/

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Four Creeks State Forest & Wildlife Management Area

Contact Information: Florida Forest ServiceFour Creeks State Forest3742 Clint DriveHilliard, FL 32046(904)845-4933

Four Creeks State Forest is located between Callahan and Yulee in Nassau County. It is approximately 13,147 acres and was acquired jointly by the St. Johns River Water Management District and the Florida Forever Program. The area is named for the four creeks associated with the property: Alligator, Thomas, Boggy, and Plummer creeks, which join to form the headwaters of the Nassau River. This area opened to the public in July 2008 and is jointly managed by the Florida Forest Service and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Much of the uplands consist of pine flatwoods. Wetland habitats include swamps, cypress domes, and tidal marshes. Floodplain swamps border the creeks and are dominated by cypress, tupelo, and titi. Wildlife is abundant on the area and includes deer, turkey, wild hog, gopher tortoise, wading birds, and many other species. Otter and turtles can be seen along the creeks.

Currently, there are no designated trail systems, but 24 miles of unpaved roads are open for hunting, wildlife viewing, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, canoe/kayak, and bicycling. Camping is not currently permitted however camping and additional trails are planned to be added in the future. Several natural boat landings on the creeks make it easy to launch canoes and kayaks. A public boat ramp is located on the Nassau River, at the end of Edwards Road, off of A1A. Fishing is permitted year-round and hunting take place on limited days between September and April. The area is open from 1.5 hours before sunrise to 1.5 hours after sunset, year-round.

http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/four-creeks/http://floridaforestservice.com/state_forests/four_creeks.html

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Ralph E. Simmons Memorial State Forest and Wildlife Management Area

Contact Information: Florida Forest Service Ralph E. Simmons State Forest3472 Clint DriveHilliard, Florida 32046(904)845-4933Jennifer.hart@freshfromflorida.com

Ralph E. Simmons Memorial State Forest was previously known as St. Mary’s State Forest. The property was purchased by the St. Johns River Water Management District and is managed by the Florida Forest Service and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The State Forest includes 3,638 acres with 6.7 miles of St. Mary’s shoreline.

The forest features a variety of habitats such as oxbow lakes, cypress stands, longleaf pine/wiregrass, low pinelands, seepage slopes, bogs, ravines1 and sandhills. There are also several listed plants including orchids and pitcher plants on the property. Wildlife includes deer, turkey, bobcat, fox, gopher tortoise, and otter.

Recreational uses include seasonal hunting, fishing, hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, primitive camping, wildlife viewing, and canoe/kayak. A boat ramp is located on Scotts Landing Road. Primitive campsites are located along the St. Marys River on a first-come, first-serve basis. Group camping requires a permit from the Florida Forest Service. This site is included on the Great Florida Birding Trail.

http://www.sjrwmd.com/recreationguide/ralphsimmons/ http://floridaforestservice.com/state_forests/ralph_e_simmons.html http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Ralph-E-Simmons

Park Lands in Putnam County

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Dunns Creek Wildlife Management Area

Contact Information: St. Johns River Water Management District: (386)329-4404

Dunns Creek Conservation Area is co-managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the St. Johns River Water Management District. This property is nearly 3,200 acres located on the east side of Dunns Creek, west of SR 100, and east of US 17, at the north end of Crescent Lake. This property was purchased in 1992 with Preservation 2000 funds to protect the water resources and floodplain of Dunns Creek.

This area contains floodplain swamp and hydric hammock, with areas of pine flatwood and mixed forest uplands. There are a variety of wildlife onsite, including bobcats, alligators, raccoons, deer, gray fox, wood ducks, swallow-tailed kites, barred owls, and various wading birds.

Seasonal hunting is permitted on this property. Hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, fishing, and wildlife viewing are available but may be restricted during hunt dates. Primitive camping is allowed at designated sites. Group camping, seven or more people, requires reservations at least seven days in advance. Canoeing/kayaking is available on Dunns Creek, however there are no launch facilities on the property.

http://www.sjrwmd.com/recreationguide/dunnscreek/http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Dunns-Creek

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Etoniah Creek State Forest and Wildlife Management Area

Contact Information: Florida Forest ServiceEtonia Creek State Forest390 Holloway RoadFlorahome, FL 32140(386)329-2552Scott.Crosby@freshfromflorida.com

Etonia Creek State Forest contains nearly 8,700 acres with 7,185 acres of this managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission as a Wildlife Management Area. This property was acquired as part of the Cross Florida Greenway Conservation and Recreation Lands project.

Several streams, including Etonia Creek, Rice Creek, and Falling Branch, pass through the steep banked bottomland hardwoods. The park also has frontage on Lake George. Scrub, flatwoods, and sandhills are the main community types found in the state forest. This land is also the home of one of only two known populations of the endangered Etonia rosemary found on public lands.

Visitors may see deer, bobcat, fox squirrel, turkey, diamondback rattlesnake, and great –horned owls onsite. The property is also home to rare species such as eastern indigo snakes and gopher tortoise. Recreational activities include hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, hiking, bicycling, canoe/kayak, and primitive camping. There are two designated hiking trails and one multi-use trail. The Florida National Scenic Trail passes through the property. This property also is part of the Trailtrotter and Trailwalker Programs.

http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Etoniah-Creekhttp://floridaforestservice.com/state_forests/etoniah_creek.html

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Park Lands in St. Johns County

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Anastasia State Park

Contact Information: 1340-A State Road A1A SouthSt. Augustine, FL 32080(904)461-2033

Anastasia Island State Park is located on the coast in St. Augustine. It includes more than 1,600 acres with four miles of beach, tidal marsh, and upland hammock forest. There is an old quarry where the coquina rock that was used to build the Castillo de San Marco located in the park.

Visitors to the park can take part in a wide range of activities including hiking, bicycling, watching wildlife, camping, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. The park has 139 campsites and Anastasia Watersports rents canoes, sailboards, paddleboats and kayaks. Equipment can be rented by calling (904)460-9111.

The park is open from 8:00 am until sundown 365 days a year. There is an admission fee of $8 per vehicle. Camping is $28 per night.

http://www.floridastateparks.org/anastasia/

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Faver-Dykes State Park

Contact Information:1000 Faver-Dykes RoadSt. Augustine, FL 32086(904)794-0997

Faver-Dykes State Park is located along Pellicer Creek, which is designated as a state canoe trail. The park covers about 6,000 acres with three miles of trails for exploring. There are a variety of activities available for those that are visiting. There are two camping areas, a 30 site full facility and a youth camping area for up to 50 people. Reservations for the youth campsite can be made by calling (904)794-0997. For full facility campsite reservations call (800)326-3521. In addition to camping, visitors can hike, bicycle, fish, canoe, and kayak. There are two ½ mile loop trails which are open to all. In addition, there are park boundary roads and back woods trails which can be open with prior notification of park staff. Canoes are available for rent by advance reservation.

http://www.floridastateparks.org/faverdykes/

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Fort Matanzas National Monument

Contact Information: 8635 A1A SouthSt. Augustine, FL 32080(904)471-0116

Fort Matanzas is a Spanish fort which was constructed in 1740. The fort and approximately 100 acre park are located on an island accessible by the park ferry. The ferry is free but you need to have boarding passes from the visitor center. Visitors can hike the ½ mile boardwalk trail, walk along the beach, watch wildlife or fish from the beach. There are regularly scheduled tours of the fort and guides will demonstrate cannon and musket firing on certain days.

http://www.nps.gov/foma/index.htm

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Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve

Contact Information: GTM Research Reserve505 Guana River RoadPonte Vedra Beach, FL 32082(904)823-4500

The Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve (GTM NERR) is dedicated to the conservation of natural biodiversity and cultural resources through research and education. The Reserve consists of 73,352 acres in St. Johns and Flagler Counties. GTM NERR is separated into a northern and southern part by the city of St. Augustine. The northern part consists of Guana River Marsh Preserve, Guana River Wildlife Management Area, and Deep Creek State Forest. The southern part consists of Pellicer Creek Aquatic Preserve, Faver-Dykes State Park, Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, Moses Creek Conservation Area, Pellicer Creek Conservation Area, Fort Matanzas National Monument, Matanzas State Forest, Princes Place Preserve, River to Sea Preserve, and various sovereign submerged lands.

Activities vary depending on which properties you are visiting. Some areas, such as the Guana River Wildlife Management Area, allow hunting during designated seasons. All areas have trails, many of which are open to bicycles and horses. Since this is an aquatic preserve there are many opportunities for canoeing and kayaking as well as fishing. Some areas, such as Princess Place Preserve and Faver-Dykes State Park, allow camping.

http://www.dep.state.fl.us/coastal/sites/gtm/

http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/lead/Guana-River

http://www.dep.state.fl.us/coastal/sites/gtm/guana.htm

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Matanzas State Forest

Contact Information: Matanzas State Forest6840 US 1 SouthSt. Augustine, FL 32086(904)797-5073Camp reservations: chris.kincaid@freshfromflorida.com

Matanzas State Forest consists of 4,699 acres is managed as a multiple use forest by the Florida Forest Service. The property is used for timber management, wildlife management, natural resource based recreation, and ecological restoration. It is located north of Faver-Dykes State Park and south of Moses Creek Conservation area. The property is home to a wide variety of wildlife including nesting eagles, gopher tortoise, deer, otter, wild turkey, hogs, song birds, and wading birds.

Visitors can use the timber roads for hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding. Water access for canoeing and fishing is available along the Intracoastal Waterway (Matanzas River) on the east side of the forest. Primitive camping is available by permit by calling the park or e-mailing. The marsh along the west side of the park is designated as an Important Birding Area by the Audubon Society. During non-hunting season the Wildlife Management Area entrance gate is locked and visitors must call ahead for an entrance permit.

http://www.floridaforestservice.com/state_forests/matanzas.html

http://www.sjrwmd.com/recreationguide/matanzas/

http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/matanzas/

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Moses Creek Conservation Area

Contact Information: South Florida Water Management District Land Management Bureau(386)329-4404

Moses Creek Conservation Area is 2,173 acres located on the Matanzas River north of State Road 206 in southeast St. Johns County. It is one of the few remaining undeveloped tidal creeks in the region. The land is managed by the St. Johns River Water Management District and encompasses seven natural communities – scrub, upland mixed forest, freshwater tidal swamp, mesic flatwood, depression marsh, dome swamp and estuarine tidal marsh. Many of the trails are covered by old live oak canopy while others are more exposed as you travel through scrub habitat.

Visitors can take part in wildlife viewing, primitive camping, bicycling, horseback riding and fishing. Canoeing on Moses Creek and the Matanzas River are permitted but there are no boat launches on the property. Environmental education programs are also conducted on the property.

http://www.sjrwmd.com/recreationguide/mosescreek/

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Stokes Landing Conservation Area

Contact Information: South Florida Water Management District Land Management Bureau(386)329-4404

Stokes Landing is located north of the St. Augustine Regional Airport. The area is 277 acres along the Tolomato River. There are several trails, one 1.4 miles and the other 0.7 miles in length. There is also a wildlife observation tower which allows you to look over the marsh to see a variety of wading birds including wood storks. Canoeing is allowed on the Tolomato River and the property is accessible by water but there are no launches located on the property. Hiking, bicycling, fishing and wildlife observation are the most popular activitiesat Stokes Landing.

http://www.sjrwmd.com/recreationguide/stokeslanding/

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Park Lands in Suwannee County

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Branford Bend Tract

Contact Information:Suwannee River Water Management District: (800)868-9914

The Branford Tract 6onsists of over 1,000 acres located in southern Suwanee County. The southern portion of it is within the town limits of Branford. The Suwannee River Greenway forms the eastern boundary and the Suwannee River forms the western boundary. The property includes upland mixed hardwood forest, xeric hammock, and floodplain swamp/forest. Wildlife include gopher tortoise, Florida mouse, egrets, ibis, deer, turkey, and squirrel.

Recreational activities include wildlife viewing, fishing, bicycling, hiking, and horseback riding. The Branford Tract is located along the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail and near Ruth Springs, Troy Spring State Park, and Little River Springs.

http://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?nid=234

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Little River Wildlife Management Area

Contact Information:Suwannee River Water Management District: (800)868-9914FWC: (386)758-0525

The Little River WMA is co-managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Suwannee River Water Management District. The area is approximately 2,200 acres located along the north shore of the Suwannee River, north of Branford. It is part of the larger Suwannee River Wilderness Trail system.

A variety of recreational activities are available on this property including hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, hiking, canoe/kayak, horseback riding, and limited bicycling. Most tyrailos Wading birds, otter, turtles, deer, squirrel, and wild hogs can be found on the property.

This property is adjacent to several other natural areas including Owens Spring, Adams Tract, Walker tract, and Trou Springs State Park.

http://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?nid=177 http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Little-River

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Trillium Slopes

Contact Information:Suwanee River Water Management District: (800)868-9914

Trillium Slopes is a 60 acre tract located in northern Suwannee County along the Suwannee River. The property contains slash pine, sandhill, and bottom land forest. Wildlife that can be expected on the property includes gopher tortoise, heron, egret, deer, turkey, peregrine falcon, and squirrel.

Trillium Slopes is designated as a primitive recreation area. Access to this parcel is from the Suwannee River.

http://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?nid=169

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Twin Rivers State Forest and Wildlife Management Area

Contact Information:Florida Forest ServiceTwin Rivers State Forest7620 133rd RoadLive Oak, Florida 32060(386)208-1460Steven.carpenter@freshfromflorida.com

FWC: (386)758-0525

Twin Rivers State Forest comprises 14 noncontiguous tracts totaling 14,882 acres in western Hamilton, eastern Madison and northwestern Suwannee counties. The properties are managed by the Florida Forest Service, Suwannee River Water Management District, and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission manages approximately 11,000 acres in the Withlacoochee, Blue Springs, Ellaville, Anderson Springs, Black, North Mill Creek, and South Mill Creek Tracts as the Twin Rivers Wildlife Management Area. Hunting is permitted on the WMA tracts during specified seasons.

The tracts are located along the Withlacoochee and Suwannee Rivers and most of the land is within the 100-year floodplain. Natural communities include river bottom hardwoods, upland hardwoods, natural pine, pine plantation, and sinkhole communities. Wildlife such as deer, bobwhite quail, bobcat, otter, beaver, alligator, and turkey are found on the tracts.

These areas are included on the Great Florida Birding Trail, the Florida Scenic Trail, Suwannee River Wilderness Trail, and the Trailtrotter and Trailwalker Programs. Hunting is permitted in specified areas within the WMA. Additionally, fishing, wildlife viewing, canoeing, horseback riding, hiking, bicycling, and primitive camping are permitted. Picnicking facilities are also available.

http://floridaforestservice.com/state_forests/twin_rivers.htmlhttp://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/cooperative/Twin-Rivershttp://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?nid=237http://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?NID=238http://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.aspx?nid=172

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Orienteering Courses

There are several orienteering (compass) courses set up around North Florida Council. These courses are designed to help teach, practice, and learn compass skills.

Orienteering merit badge requirements which can be accomplished on these courses include:

Set up a 100-meter pace course. Determine your walking and running pace for 100 meters. Tell why it is important to pace-count. (Courses discussed below are in feet or yards so Scout may

need to make this conversion from metric measurements or establish a 100-yard pace course.)

Take part in three orienteering events.

After each event, write a report with (1) a copy of the master map and control description sheet, (2) a copy of the route you took on the course, (3) a discussion of how you could improve your time between control points, and (4) a list of your major weaknesses on this course.

Teach orienteering techniques to your patrol, troop or crew.

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Ed Austin Regional Park11751 McCormick RoadJacksonville, FL 32225http://www.freewebs.com/compasscourse/

Simple Compass Test Exercises – Playground Course – Begin and end in the middle of the Four Sisters Pines near the Playground. These courses should be used as practice to make sure the participants are able to use the compass correctly.

Course #1 Course#2360º - 24’/8 yards (N) 45º - 15’/5 yards270º - 18’/6 yards (W) 270º - 21’/7 yards180º - 24’/8 yards (S) 45º - 15’/5 yards 90º - 18’/6 yards (E) 180º - 21’/7 yards

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Increased Challenge Exercises – These courses also begin and end in the middle of the Four Sisters Pines near the Playground. The courses below are for participant use. Instructor information is contained on the following page.

Course #1 Course #2 Course #3240º - 93’/31 yards 345º - 90’/30 yards 345º - 90’/30 yards 28º - 87’/29 yards 225º - 156’/52 yards 225º - 93’/31 yards116º - 48’/16 yards 55º - 147’/40 yards 90º - 147’/49 yards

116º - 48’/16 yards 342º - 48’/16 yards

Course #4 Course #5 Course #6358º - 381’/127 yards 358º - 381’/127 yards 358º - 381’/127 yards296º - 216’/72 yards 296º - 216’/72 yards 296º - 216’/72 yards162º - 228’/76 yards 75º - 234’/78 yards 75º - 234’/78 yards150º - 294’/98 yards 300º - 195’/65 yards 90º - 180’/60 yards

198º - 168’/56 yards 220º - 204’/68 yards162º - 228’/76 yards 6º - 48’/16 yards150º - 294’/98 yards 142º - 294’/98 yards

Course #7 Course #8250º - 186’/62 yards 250º - 186’/62 yards355º - 123’/41 yards 355º - 123’/41 yards335º - 123’/41 yards 335º - 123’/41 yards180º - 114’/38 yards 90º - 114’/38 yards330º - 27’/9 yards 345º - 297’/99 yards150º - 294’/98 yards 75º - 234’/78 yards

90º - 180’/60 yards220º - 204’/68 yards 6º - 48’/16 yards150º - 284’/98 yards

100

Increased Challenge Exercises (Instructor’s Version) – These courses also begin and end in the middle of the Four Sisters Pines near the Playground. The instructor’s version includes landmarks which should not be given to the participants.

Course #1 Course #2 Course #3240º - 93’/31 yards To Fence Pole 345º - 90’/30 yards To Pine Tree 345º - 90’/30 yards To Pine Tree 28º - 87’/29 yards To Stump 225º - 156’/52 yards To Fence Corner 225º - 93’/31 yards To Fence Corner116º - 48’/16 yards To 4 Pines 55º - 147’/40 yards To Stump 90º - 147’/49 yards To Stump

116º - 48’/16 yards To 4 Pines 342º - 48’/16 yards To 4 Pines

Course #4 Course #5 Course #6358º - 381’/127 yards To Oak Tree 358º - 381’/127 yards To Oak Tree 358º - 381’/127 yards To Oak Tree296º - 216’/72 yards To Concrete Pad 296º - 216’/72 yards To Concrete Pad 296º - 216’/72 yards To Concrete Pad162º - 228’/76 yards To Fence Corner 75º - 234’/78 yards To “V” Oak 75º - 234’/78 yards To “V” Oak150º - 294’/98 yards To 4 Pines 300º - 195’/65 yards To Concrete Pad 90º - 180’/60 yards To Oak Tree

198º - 168’/56 yards To Concrete Pad 220º - 204’/68 yards To Fence Corner162º - 228’/76 yards To Fence Corner 6º - 48’/16 yards To Fence Corner150º - 294’/98 yards To 4 Pines 142º - 294’/98 yards To 4 Pines

Course #7 Course #8250º - 186’/62 yards To Oak Tree 250º - 186’/62 yards To Oak Tree355º - 123’/41 yards To Pine Tree 355º - 123’/41 yards To Pine Tree335º - 123’/41 yards To Fence Corner 335º - 123’/41 yards To Fence Corner180º - 114’/38 yards To Oak Tree 90º - 114’/38 yards To Oak Tree330º - 27’/9 yards To Fence Corner 345º - 297’/99 yards To Concrete Pad 6º - 48’/16 yards To Fence Corner 75º - 234’/78 yards To “V” Oak150º - 294’/98 yards To 4 Pines 90º - 180’/60 yards To Oak Tree

220º - 204’/68 yards To Fence Corner 6º - 48’/16 yards To Fence Corner150º - 284’/98 yards To 4 Pines

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Simple Compass Test Exercises – NE Section (Near Skate Park) Course – Begin and end at the NW corner of the concrete pad under the big green utility service box (Hoover).

Course #1 Course#2360º - 24’/8 yards (N) 45º - 15’/5 yards270º - 18’/6 yards (W) 270º - 21’/7 yards180º - 24’/8 yards (S) 45º - 15’/5 yards 90º - 18’/6 yards (E) 180º - 21’/7 yards

Increased Challenge Exercises – These courses also begin and end at the NW corner of the concrete pad under the big green utility service box (Hoover).

Course #1 Course#2305º - 102’/34 yards 10º - 186’/64 yards225º - 69’/23 yards 5º - 213’/71 yards 94º - 138’/46 yards 268º - 474’/158 yards

132º - 204’/68 yards235º - 150’/50 yards112º - 147’/49 yards120º - 550’/50 yards 94º - 138’/46 yards

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Increased Challenge Exercises (Instructor’s Version) – These courses also begin and end at the NW corner of the concrete pad under the big green utility service box (Hoover). The instructor’s version includes landmarks which should not be given to the participants.

Course #1 Course#2305º - 102’/34 yards Manhole Cover 10º - 186’/64 yards To Path Clearing225º - 69’/23 yards Concrete Light Pole 5º - 213’/71 yards To Little Trees in Depression 94º - 138’/46 yards Hoover 268º - 474’/158 yards To Bushy Tree

132º - 204’/68 yards To Full Pine on top of Hill235º - 150’/50 yards To Concrete Light Pole112º - 147’/49 yards To Concrete Light Pole120º - 550’/50 yards To Concrete Light Pole 94º - 138’/46 yards Hoover

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