Steinhatchee Springs Wildlife Management Area
Managed in cooperation with the Suwannee River Water Management District.
Steinhatchee Springs Wildlife Management Area spans over 20,000 acres of floodplain forest, cypress swamps, xeric hammocks and pine plantations surrounding the Steinhatchee River in Lafayette, Dixie and Taylor counties. The 28-mile-long river originates in the upper reaches of Mallory Swamp in Lafayette County and discharges to the Gulf. The river goes underground north of Tennille and rises again about a half mile south.
District lands have limited access due to their swampy nature and lack of roads into their interiors. Entrances and river access points are open for fishing and nature study every day and are located off US 51 and the graded roads adjacent to the river. Look for the brown public river access signs to direct you.
Motorized vehicles may be operated only on named or numbered roads. The use of tracked vehicles, airboats, motorcycles or all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) is prohibited.
Hunting
For hunting seasons and area regulations, view FWC's regulations summary brochure for Steinhatchee Springs WMA.
Fishing
Fishing is permitted year-round. A Florida fishing license is required and can be purchased at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.
Camping
There are no camping opportunities on the area.
Recreation
Recreational opportunities include wildlife viewing, horseback riding, hiking and biking.
Horses are not allowed during periods open to hunting. During periods closed to hunting, horses are allowed only on designated roads and trails.
Wildlife
Wildlife species on the area include white-tailed deer, wild hogs, turkeys, bobcats and a variety of resident and migratory birds.
Add your bird observations to the Steinhatchee Springs eBird Hotspots:
More Information
Visit the Suwannee River Water Management District's Web page for Steinhatchee Springs WMA.
For an area map, hunting seasons, permits, fees, rules regarding dogs and area regulations, view FWC's regulations summary brochure for Steinhatchee Springs WMA.