Apalachee - Things to Do
Miles of unpaved roads meander through expanses of well-managed uplands and wetlands that are home to abundant resident and migratory wildlife. In addition to excellent hunting and fishing, visitors can explore numerous paddling, hiking and horseback riding opportunities. Pack your camera!
Hunting
From October to April, Apalachee’s high quality habitats provide excellent hunting opportunities for deer, northern bobwhite, wild turkey, feral hog and waterfowl. Some of the biggest deer in the state have come from Apalachee, which also boasts some of the best public land prospects for northern bobwhite hunters in northwest Florida. Check the regulations summary brochure before you visit.
If you see a sick or abnormally thin deer or deer dead of unknown causes, please report its location to the CWD hotline, (866) CWD-WATCH (293-9282).
Fishing
Fishing is popular on some ponds in Zones A and B, on Lake Seminole and many sloughs and backwaters of the Chattahoochee River. Lake Seminole is nationally known for its Florida, hybrid, striped and white bass. Four boat landings are located off of River Road (CR 271). Numerous unimproved launch sites provide small boat access to ponds. Carry appropriate licenses and permits.
Wildlife Viewing
Scenic River Road (CR 271) bisects much of the area, providing easy access for wildlife viewing year-round. Wetland habitats host alligators, wading birds, waterfowl and beavers. Species such as deer, northern bobwhite, fox squirrel and gopher tortoise thrive in the uplands. Apalachee is a site on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail.
Hiking and Biking
The unpaved road system found on Apalachee WMA weaves through a cross-section of habitats and is open year-round for horseback riding, bicycling and hiking. Zone A has 17 miles of roads and is a popular destination for these activities. The eastern side of Zone A borders Lake Seminole. Zones B and C are primarily floodplain forest, accessible by boat and on foot.
Paddling
Paddlers can launch boats on Lake Seminole and the Chattahoochee River from four boat landings located along River Road (CR 271). Explore some of the larger ponds in Zones A and B by launching small boats at one of the launch sites on the area. Interconnecting ponds provide longer paddling routes.
White-tailed deer
White-tailed deer avoid predators by relying on an acute sense of smell, excellent hearing and a wide field of vision.