Viewing

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Recreation

In support of the resource management goals and objectives for the area and to provide a quality experience for all area users, the following recreation activities are allowed. The Babcock-Webb Recreation Guide is a useful resource when visiting this area.

Hunting

The deer population has increased from 1 deer per 470 acres in 1986 to 1 deer per 161 acres in 1995. Deer condition indexes have remained in the good to excellent range. Feral hogs are present and may be some of the direct descendants of the original stock that escaped in the 1500s from de Soto’s expedition. Although turkeys are occasionally seen, only one has been harvested on Babcock-Webb in the past 53 years.  Quota hunt permits are required for dove hunts (October and November) and hog management hunts (March) held on the 885-acre Punta Gorda Water Treatment Facility, located in the northwest corner of the WMA. Visit the Dove Hunters Hotline web site to find out the latest information on FWC dove fields across the state of Florida.

Bobwhite quail is the featured species on the area and the subject of considerable research and management. Read More

Fishing

The 395-acre Webb Lake has record-sized bluegill, huge freshwater snook, and largemouth bass. Marl ponds 1, 2, and 3 are located in either side of Tucker Grade Road. They are each about 2 acres in size and provide excellent opportunities for bank fishing. Fish have been stocked and feeders installed on Webb Lake and the ponds to help fish reach maximum size in the shortest time possible. Surveys by biologists indicate that bluegill 8 inches or longer are common and that some in the ponds exceed 11 inches in length. Reference the map of Babcock-Webb WMA for boat ramp locations. Fishing license information.

Wildlife Viewing

A birding hot spot in southwest Florida, Webb is home to numerous resident as well as migrating birds. Northern bobwhite, eastern cottontail rabbits, gray squirrels, raccoons, white-tailed deer, and feral hogs are common inhabitants of the flatwoods. Visit the Wildlife page for more information about the area's wildlife. This area is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail.  You may also request a copy or download or print the Babcock-Webb Bird List .

Hiking

Lightly traveled trams provide many hiking opportunities. The slightly elevated trams offer the hiker views of this expansive landscape. The Babcock-Webb Recreation Guide indicates especially scenic routes.

Biking

Trams offer miles of off-road cycling opportunities. The Babcock-Webb Recreation Guide indicates especially scenic routes.

Horseback Riding

Horses may be used during hunting seasons throughout the area unless otherwise specified. During other times of the year, horseback riding is allowed in the recreation area lying south of the northern boundaries of Sections 19, 20, and 21.  During hunting days, horses are prohibited on the Yucca Pens Unit.  Children under the age of 16 are required to wear a helmet when 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.

Paddling

Paddlers can explore the nooks and crannies of Webb Lake for a good spot to cast a line or enjoy the many wading birds along it shores. Reference the map of Babcock-Webb WMA for boat ramp locations.

Scenic Driving

A short interpretive drive along Webb Lake introduces visitors to the natural resources of Babcock-Webb.

See vehicle use regulations.

Camping

Camping is only permitted in designated primitive campgrounds . During hunting season camping is available 7 days a week and during non-hunting season, camping is permitted from 5 pm Friday to 9 PM on Sunday and on Memorial Day, Independence Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and Labor Day. Camping is prohibited on the Yucca Pens Unit.

Shooting Range

This popular 10-pad shooting range has 200-yard rifle, 100-yard rifle, and 50-yard pistol ranges. More information regarding Public Shooting Ranges.