Managed in cooperation with
Florida Forest Service

 

photo of hunter in pine forest
Russell Johnson

The Hutton Unit encompasses more than 7,500 acres north of Highway 90, five miles east of Milton. Indian Ford Road forms the northern boundary of the unit, which consists of open pinelands interspersed with mature forests. The FWC manages this unit of the Blackwater State Forest to improve the habitat for bobwhite quail, as well as deer, turkey and other non-game species.  For each of the quail hunts on the Hutton Unit, eight daily quota permits will be given out on a first-come, first-served basis at the check station on the day of the hunts.  Quota permits are also required for muzzleloading gun, archery, and general gun hunts. Fishing and paddling opportunities are available along the Blackwater River and hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing are permitted on the area. The Florida National Scenic Trail winds through the Hutton Unit and is open to hikers year round.  Mourning dove, myrtle warbler, red-tailed hawk, red-headed woodpecker, and Carolina wren are a few of the bird species possible to see in the Hutton Unit, which is a part of the Great Florida Birding Trail. Gates are open to general vehicular traffic from May 1 to October 1 and to permitted vehicles only the rest of the year. Camping is permitted at designated campsites. Call the Florida Forest Service at (850) 957-6140 for campsite locations.

Rules Regarding Dogs

  • For purposes other than hunting, dogs are allowed, but must be kept under physical restraint at all times. Dogs are prohibited in areas posted as "Closed to Public Access" by FWC administrative action. No person shall allow any dog to pursue or molest any wildlife during any period in which the taking of wildlife by the use of dogs is prohibited.
  • Hunting dogs may be taken onto the WMA after 8 a.m. the day before the opening of a season and shall be removed by 6 p.m. one day after the end of the season. Hunting with dogs, other than bird dogs or retrievers, is prohibited except during the wild hog-dog hunts. During wild hog-dog hunts. Bird dogs may be trained Monday through Friday in October (except during archery season). Dogs are prohibited in areas posted as "Closed to Public Access" by FWC administrative action. No person shall allow any dog to pursue or molest any wildlife during any period in which the taking of wildlife by the use of dogs is prohibited. Dogs on leashes may be used for trailing wounded game.


FWC Facts:
The Great Florida Birding Trail is a network of nearly 500 Florida sites selected for their excellent bird-watching or education opportunities.

Learn More at AskFWC