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 hogs, wild turkey, gopher tortoises, and swallow-tailed kites (during the summer). Two designated primitive campsites are located on the Florida Trail. All other campers must possess a special-use license issued by the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD), (800) 250-4200. Horseback riding on the area requires a permit from SFWMD. 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 (pdf file) for an area map, hunting seasons, permits, fees, and area regulations.

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