Things to Do

Hunting

Dinner Island Ranch offers good opportunities for hunting deer, turkey, hog, dove and migratory birds. Since its opening in 2003, it has been one of the most sought after quota hunt areas in the state. Quota hunts ensure high quality hunting experiences. Check the regulations summary brochure and hunt calendar 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).

Wildlife Viewing

A group of men and women stopping along unpaved road to view birds.

Dinner Island Ranch is an excellent place to view wildlife year-round. Wading birds of all types, as well as Florida sandhill cranes, crested caracaras, kestrels and white-tailed deer are common. This area is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. Visit the Wildlife page for more information about the area's wildlife.

Fishing

Fishing is permitted throughout the area but opportunities are limited to bank fishing along canals and in scattered ponds. Water levels fluctuate with seasonal rainfall. Carry appropriate licenses and permits.

Hiking

Hikers in distance walking along unimproved dirt roads

All roads offer great scenery and abundant wildlife. Hikes are pleasant along any of the unimproved numbered roads; late fall through spring is the best time. Road 5 is the driest unimproved road and offers one the best opportunities for foot travel.

Camping

Open well-maintained campground with interpretive kiosk and cabbage palms in background

Camp year-round at one of the two designated camping areas. Kowechobe Camp is an open field with easy access for trailers. Hammock Camp is located under an oak hammock with plenty of shade and a vault toilet. You will need to bring your own water. All campers must obtain a free permit/site reservation using the online reservation system or by calling the South Regional Office at (561) 625-5122, during regular business hours only (Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. ET).

Bicycling and Horseback Riding

Family of three bicycling along dirt road

Off-road bicyclists and equestrians may explore the network of named and numbered roads. Named roads offer the best travel conditions. Roads 3, 5, 7, 9 and 10 are the most accessible numbered roads. Note that equestrians must stay on named and numbered roads. Check the regulations summary brochure for access restrictions for horses.

Scenic Driving

While there is no formal driving tour, motorists may travel along the unpaved roads, which pass through a variety of natural communities and offer opportunities to observe wildlife, wildflowers, butterflies and much more.

Dinner Island - Things to Do