|
Dwight Myers |
KICCO consists of more than 7,000 acres along the channelized
Kissimmee River in Polk County south of SR 60. About 13 miles of
the
Florida Trail traverse the area through oak hammock, scrub,
cypress strand, and pine-palmetto flatwoods. There is an excellent
biking opportunity on the 9-mile shell KICCO Grade road. Wildlife is abundant and includes
white-tailed deer,
alligators,
feral hogs,
bald eagles,
wild turkeys, hawks, wading birds, and
sandhill cranes. The
threatened
crested caracara has been observed on the area. All
hunters are required to have quota hunt permits, except during
the Small Game Season. A portion of the
area is set aside for only feral hog hunting only, and
another portion of the area is closed to all hunting; however,
until further notice, the northern portion of the area (east and
north of River Ranch Boulevard) is closed to all recreation
activities except camping in the designated campground due to
construction activities related to wetland restoration. Tent camping is allowed at
a designated campsite during periods when hunting is allowed or
by persons possessing a special use license issued by the South
Florida Water Management District (call 1-800-250-4200 for a
free permit). A public boat ramp
is located at structure 65, adjacent to SR 60, and a private boat
ramp is located at River Ranch Resort, which can be used for a
small fee. The use of airboats is
prohibited except in old river runs and the C38 Canal. Hunters in possession of
a valid quota hunt permit are able to drive on named or
numbered roads during the Archery, Muzzleloading Gun, Small Game
Hog Management Hunts, Spring Turkey, and General
Gun Hog Seasons. The use of tracked vehicles, airboats,
motorcycles or all-terrain vehicles is prohibited. Horses are
allowed by permit from the
South Florida Water Management District. |
