Green Swamp WMA

Managed in cooperation with Southwest Florida Water Management District.

Green Swamp Wildlife Management Area spans over 50,000 acres across Lake, Polk, and Sumter counties. Sometimes called Green Swamp East, this area is part of a larger conservation effort that has protected approximately 110,000 acres in the Green Swamp Basin.

Green Swamp plays a vital role in Florida's water resources. It serves as a critical recharge area for the Floridan Aquifer and is the headwaters for four major rivers: the Hillsborough, Withlacoochee, Ocklawaha and Peace rivers.

Green Swamp WMA is open to the public year-round. Vehicle access is limited to certain periods. For information about public access and vehicle use, see the regulations summary brochure for Green Swamp WMA.

Hunting

Deer, hog and turkey hunting are good, although high water can make hunting and other recreational activities difficult at times.

For hunting seasons and area regulations, view FWC's regulations summary brochure for Green Swamp WMA.

Fishing

Fishing is permitted year-round. A Florida fishing license is required and can be purchased at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.

The Withlacoochee River offers good freshwater fishing opportunities in this area. Stanley Fish Hole and Maynard Mines are popular fishing spots, both accessible from State Road 471.

Camping

For information about camping, see the regulations summary brochure for Green Swamp WMA.

Recreation

More than 20 miles of the Florida Trail traverse the area, including 13.1 miles of which are part of the Florida National Scenic Trail. Portions of the trail are wet in all but the driest years. Over 20 miles of unpaved service roads are available for bicycling.

For more information about hiking, bicycling and other recreation, visit the SWFWMD’s webpage for Green Swamp Wilderness Preserve.

Wildlife

Wildlife that may be seen on the area include alligator, white-tailed deer, bobwhite quail, armadillo and a variety of birds.

Add your bird observations to the following eBird Hotspots:

• Green Swamp WMA - Little Withlacoochee Tract
• Green Swamp WMA

More Information

Visit the SWFWMD’s webpage for Green Swamp Wilderness Preserve.

For an area map, hunting seasons, permits, fees, rules regarding dogs and area regulations, view FWC's regulations summary brochure for Green Swamp WMA.