Upper Hillsborough Wildlife Management Area
Managed in cooperation with Southwest Florida Water Management District.
The Upper Hillsborough Wildlife Management Area spans more than 5,000 acres along the picturesque Hillsborough River, just east of Zephyrhills on County Road 54 in Polk and Pasco counties. The uplands are blanketed by slash and longleaf pine flatwoods, where saw palmetto and gallberry create groundcover that supports wildlife.
Hunting
For hunting seasons and area regulations, view FWC's regulations summary brochure for Upper Hillsborough WMA.
Fishing
Fishing is permitted year-round. A Florida fishing license is required and can be purchased at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.
Camping
The designated campsite is intended for use by hunters and availability is limited. For more information, see the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s webpage for the Upper Hillsborough Tract.
Recreation
The most popular route for bicycling and horseback riding is the unpaved loop road south of CR 54, which winds through pine flatwoods. Side trails branching off this main road offer additional access for hikers and hunters. Horseback riding is not allowed during hunting seasons but is allowed at other times with a free day-use reservation from the Southwest Florida Water Management District. For more information, see the SWFWMD’s webpage for the Upper Hillsborough Tract.
Note that there are no bridges at the Hillsborough River crossings, and these areas may be wet or flooded. There are no boat ramps within this area.
Wildlife
Wildlife that make their home on the area include white-tailed deer, northern bobwhites, gray squirrels, wild hogs and a variety of birds.
The Upper Hillsborough River is a site on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail.
Add your bird observations to the eBird Hotspot at Upper Hillsborough WMA:
Upper Hillsborough Tract - Chancey Road Trailhead
More Information
For an area map, hunting seasons, permits, fees, rules regarding dogs and area regulations, view FWC's regulations summary brochure for Upper Hillsborough WMA.