Recreation (updated yearly)

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.

Hunting

Wild Turkey

The area opened for public hunting for the first time during the 2004-2005 season. All hunts on Salt Lake are quota hunts (archery, muzzleloader, general gun, general gun hog-dog, spring turkey). This area offers a general gun hog hunt. Each quota permit holder is allowed to hunt with up to three dogs during this hunt. The feral hog and turkey populations are excellent, and the deer population is fair. Turkeys are especially abundant along the mowed power lines.

Hunting Regulations and Maps - pdf file Hunting Calendar

Fishing

Fishing and frogging are permitted throughout the year. There are portions of three lakes (Salt Lake, South Lake, and Loughman Lake) within Salt Lake’s boundaries. South Lake and Salt Lake can be accessed through nearby boat ramps. South Lake may be accessed through Fox Lake. Nearby Fox Lake Park has a boat ramp and parking area. Salt Lake may be accessed from a boat ramp on SR 46 or at the terminus of Paces Landing Road.

Wildlife Viewing

Look for turkeys along the mowed powerlines. Wading birds, American coots, purple gallinules, common moorhen, osprey, and alligators are abundant on the floodplain marshes adjacent to the three lakes which border the area. You can sometimes see feral hogs rooting along the roadways and in the moist woodlands. You may request a copy or download or print the Salt Lake Bird List - pdf file. Visit the Wildlife page for more information about the area's wildlife.

Hiking

There are currently no established hiking trails on the area, however, there are numerous roads, firebreaks and game trails which could be utilized for hiking. Without a marked and maintained trail on the area hikers should be prepared for a wild, rugged and scenic hike if they detour off roads and firebreaks. The area may be seasonally flooded, so be prepared to get wet. A trail system is being proposed and will hopefully be implemented sometime in the near future.

Biking

On named or numbered trails and roads only. The area may be seasonally flooded.  During dry conditions soft sand can make biking difficult.

Horseback Riding

On named or numbered trails and roads only. Horses are prohibited during hunting seasons. Horse trailers can be parked at the main entrance off Arch Road. No water other than natural ponds is available for horses.

Paddling

Paddling opportunities are available on South Lake, Salt Lake, and Loughman Lake. Access to South Lake is through Fox Lake. Nearby Fox Lake Park (off Carpenter Road) has a boat ramp and parking area. Salt Lake may be accessed from a boat ramp on SR 46 or at the terminus of Paces Landing Road and Salt Lake. Paddlers may travel from Salt Lake through Shad Creek to Loughman Lake. From Loughman Lake you can paddle through Snake Creek to tiny Clark and Ruth lakes and then to the St. Johns River. Connections between lakes may be dry during winter and spring.