Managed in cooperation with
Northwest Florida Water Management District |
|
Northwest Florida Water Management
District |
This nearly 41,000-acre area in Washington and
Bay counties runs 14 miles along the course of Econfina Creek
and also encompasses mile after mile of xeric sandhill uplands
with dozens of shallow, clear sand-bottomed lakes. These uplands
recharge the springs that feed the creek. Most of the area was
planted with commercial stands of non-native sand and slash
pine, which are being harvested and restored to longleaf pine
and wiregrass habitat. Along the creek hardwood forests and
hammocks grow above fern-covered limestone bluffs and outcrops.
In the spring, visitors will see blooming dogwoods, red buds,
mountain laurel, wild azaleas, Carolina silverbells, Ashe and
pyramid magnolias, and Florida anise. Recreational activities
available on this area include seasonal hunting (brochure), fishing, hiking
(a 14 mile segment of the
Florida
National Scenic Trail traverses the WMA), horseback riding
on designated trails
(Pine Ridge Equestrian Trail, Wolf Pond Equestrian Trail, and
other trails being developed), swimming, primitive and group
camping, birding and paddling. Information on primitive camping and group camping is
available at
Northwest Florida Water Management District
or by telephoning (850) 539-5999.
The Econfina is a state designated canoe trail (brochure) with launches
located at Scotts Road (upper creek), Walsingham Bridge (middle
creek) and Highway 20 (lower creek). The canoe trail contains
numerous “chutes” on the upper creek with springs and limestone
rock outcrops occurring on the lower creek between Highway 20
and Highway 388. The upper portion of the creek is especially
strenuous and should only be attempted by experienced canoeists.
Summer tanagers, warblers,
wild
turkeys and numerous raptor
species, including
bald eagles,
kestrels, hawks and
osprey are
common along the Econfina. The short nature trail at Pitt Spring
is an excellent spot for bird watching. This area is a site on
the
Great Florida Birding Trail. |
|
|
 Return
to Northwest Region
|
