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Potts Wildlife Management Area

WMA Potts

Managed in cooperation with the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

Potts Wildlife Management Area covers over 4,000 acres of protected water resources along the Withlacoochee River and the Tsala Apopka Chain of lakes in northeast Citrus County. Natural areas include floodplain forests along the Withlacoochee River, freshwater marshes, and scrub oak communities, which support a small population of the threatened Florida scrub-jay. Through a process called succession, old pastures are returning to natural communities such as pine flatwoods, which are vital to Florida's native wildlife.

Hunting

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

Fishing

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

Camping

For information about camping, see the Southwest Florida Water Management District's webpage for Potts Preserve. During the hunting seasons, the designated campsites are intended for use by hunters.

Recreation

Potts WMA offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, biking, paddling, horseback riding and wildlife viewing. Explore nearly 30 miles of hiking trails, featuring scenic loops and riverfront paths with diverse natural landscapes.

Bicycles may be ridden only on designated trails.

Horseback riders can enjoy over 12 miles of marked woods trails, often with opportunities to spot native wildlife along the way. 

Paddling is allowed in the area’s creeks and marshes. The nearest public boat ramp is at the end of CR 581.

Wildlife

This area is home to white-tailed deer, gopher tortoise and wild turkey, commonly seen in open woods along trails. It also supports a small population of the threatened Florida scrub-jay.

This area is a site on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail.

More Information

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

Visit Southwest Florida Water Management District's for Potts Preserve.