Managed in cooperation with South Florida Water Management District Hickory Hammock WMA consists of nearly 4,000 acres in Highlands County and is bordered on the east by the Kissimmee River Public Use Area and on the south by the Istokpoga Canal. The entrance is on Highway 98, 8 miles past the Kissimmee River Bridge and Fort Basinger. The Hickory Hammock portion of the Florida Trail runs the length of the area for 7.5 miles through oak and palm hammocks and upland pastures. It has been designated as part of the Florida National Scenic Trail. Wildlife seen on the area include white-tailed deer, feral hog, wild turkey, gopher tortoises, and swallow-tailed kites (during the summer). One primitive campsite is located on the Florida Trail and one drive in campsite is located at the Equestrian Center. All campers must possess a special-use license issued by the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD), (866) 433-6312 or visit SFWMD.gov. Horseback riding on the area requires a permit from SFWMD. Children under the age of 16 are required to wear a helmet when horseback riding on public lands. For more detailed information go to Nicole's Law . All horseback riders must have proof of current negative Coggins Test results for their horses when on state lands. You'll find an equestrian center at Hickory Hammock and there are miles of dirt roads and firebreaks for off-road bicycling. Deer hunting and turkey hunting are excellent on Hickory Hammock, and hog hunting is good. A no-cost special quota hunt permit is required during muzzleloading gun, general gun, hog and spring turkey hunts, and archery season. Both horseback riders and campers need permits from the South Florida Water Management District to use the area. Hickory Hammock WMA is a site on the Great Florida Birding Trail.
View South Florida Water Management District's Public Use Guide. View FWC's Regulations Summary for Hickory Hammock for an area map, hunting seasons, permits, fees, and area regulations.
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