Choctawhatchee River Wildlife Management Area
Managed in cooperation with the Northwest Florida Water Management District.
Choctawhatchee River WMA consists of over 57,000 acres along more than 30 miles of the river in Bay, Holmes, Walton and Washington counties. The river originates in Alabama and flows 170 miles to Choctawhatchee Bay, which empties into the Gulf of Mexico at Destin. The boundary of the area is highly variable so pay particular attention to maps and brochures for the WMA when you plan activities. Most of the area consists of floodplain forests with access primarily by boat. There are numerous boat landings along the river and along Holmes Creek.
Vehicle access is available at these locations:
- Gritney and Warehouse Landings and at Westville (Holmes County)
- The Bunker area (Walton County)
- Tilley Landing/Lost Lake, Bruce Creek and Dead River Landing (Walton County)
- Gum Creek and Cotton Landing on Holmes Creek (Washington County)
Hunting
For hunting seasons and area regulations, view FWC's regulations summary brochure for Choctawhatchee River WMA.
Fishing
Fishing is outstanding on Holmes Creek, a major spring-fed tributary of the Choctawhatchee. A Florida fishing license is required and can be purchased at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.
Camping
To make a camping reservation, please visit the NFWMD's Recreation page.
Recreation
Recreational opportunities include seasonal hunting, primitive camping, bank and river fishing, paddling, hiking and wildlife viewing.
Both Choctawhatchee River and Holmes Creek are state-designated paddling trails. These trails flow through miles of scenic wilderness.
Wildlife
The diverse habitats found here support a range of common and imperiled wildlife, including little blue herons, white-tailed deer and various woodpeckers and warblers.
Add your bird observations to these eBird hotspots:
More Information
Visit the Northwest Florida Water Management District's District Lands page.
For an area map, hunting seasons, permits, fees, rules regarding dogs and area regulations, view FWC's regulations summary brochure for Choctawhatchee River WMA.