Ross Prairie Wildlife Management Area

Managed in cooperation with the Florida Forest Service.

Ross Prairie Wildlife Management Area (WMA) consists of well over 3,000 acres and contains longleaf pine forests, as well as oak hammocks and wet prairie. The area is located in southwestern Marion County 12 miles from Ocala. This is a Supervised Small Game Hunt Area, and only persons under 16 years of age and their adult supervisor may hunt here. Bird dogs may be trained here, as well. This walk-in area is lightly used, and is a great place to introduce young people to the sport of hunting.

Horseback riding, biking, hiking, and wildlife viewing are also permitted. Children under the age of 16 are required to wear a helmet when horseback riding on public lands. For more detailed information see Nicole's Law. All horseback riders must have proof of current negative Coggins Test results for their horses when on state lands.

Add your bird observations to the Ross Prairie State Forest eBird Hotspot.

Rules Regarding Dogs

• For regulations regarding dogs, including hunting dogs, see FWC's regulations summary brochure.

More Information

• View FWC's regulations summary brochure for Ross Prairie WMA for an area map, hunting seasons, permits, fees and area regulations.