Santa Fe Swamp Wildlife and Environmental Area

Managed in cooperation with the Suwannee River Water Management District.

Santa Fe Swamp Wildlife and Environmental Area (WEA) is a floodplain swamp that feeds the upper eight miles of the Santa Fe River. Its critical importance in protecting and maintaining both the quantity and quality of water in the Santa Fe Lake and Santa Fe River led to the acquisition of this area. Most of the 7,272 acres in the Wildlife and Environmental Area are dense swamps.

Add your bird observations to the Santa Fe Swamp Conservation Area eBird Hotspot.

Only primitive weapons (bow and arrow and muzzleloader) hunting of white-tailed deer, feral hog, turkey, gray squirrel and eastern cottontail rabbit is allowed on this area during specified seasons. Fishing, wildlife viewing, horseback riding, hiking, and bicycling are permitted throughout the year. Children under the age of 16 are required to wear a helmet when horseback riding on public lands. For more detailed information go to Nicole's Law. All horseback riders must have proof of current negative Coggins Test results for their horses when on state lands. Camping is prohibited on the area.

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 with dogs is prohibited. Dogs on leashes may be used for trailing wounded game.

More Information

• View FWC's regulations summary brochure for Santa Fe Swamp WEA for an area map, hunting seasons, permits, fees and area regulations.