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Seminole Forest WMA-- Explore by: Location : Activity : Name -- What are WMAs? -- Publications -- Additional Resources -- | |
Managed in cooperation with
Seminole Forest WMA is located in northeastern Lake County. Its more than 12,000 acres are part of a vast network of public lands that protect thousands of acres of streams, springs, sand pine scrub, swamps and pine flatwoods associated with the Wekiva and St. Johns rivers. Blackwater Creek flows through the forest into the Wekiva River, which forms the area’s eastern boundary. The rare hooded pitcher plant, Florida hasteola, and Florida willow grow here. Scrub-jays, black bears, white-tailed deer, sandhill cranes, wild turkey, alligators, turtles, eastern indigo snake, and otters are found on the area. Seminole State Forest is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail. Swallow-tailed kites are abundant in the spring and summer. Bear Pond, a 13-acre former borrow pit, has been stocked with numerous game fish and is a good place to observe wading birds. Fishing is permitted throughout the year. The use of boats is prohibited on Bear and Oaks ponds. A quota hunt permit is required to hunt on this area. Hikers can choose from 21 miles of trails, including a 7.5-mile segment of the Florida National Scenic Trail. The Sulphur Island Loop Trail is a good place to see indigo buntings, vireos, and warblers. The forest may also be explored by bicycle, horseback, or canoe. 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
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. All horseback riders must have proof of current negative Coggins Test results for their horses when on state lands. A picnic table is located at the canoe launch. Camping is prohibited during hunting seasons. At other times three primitive campsites are available by reservation and five primitive campsites are available along the hiking trails. Drive-in access during non-hunting periods requires a State Forest Use Permit. For permit and camping reservation information call the Division of Forestry (352) 360-6675.Our mission: Managing fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people.
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