Fisheating Creek - Things To Do
Few places in Florida can match Fisheating Creek WMA for its range of activities and wilderness setting. Download the Fisheating Creek Recreation Guide for information on recreation opportunities, wildlife viewing tips, and detailed maps.
Hunting
March is the busiest month for hunting, with excellent spring turkey hunts, including a supervised youth turkey hunt. Except for special-opportunity spring turkey hunts, hunting is only permitted west of U.S. 27. Hunting conditions and boat access depend on water levels, which vary considerably. All hunts except small game require quota permits. 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).
Fishing
Enjoy fishing anywhere along the creek either from a boat or along the bank. These tea-colored waters are home to bass, crappie, catfish and bream, as well as the nonnative armored catfish and tilapia. Reference the regulations summary brochure map for the boat ramp location and carry appropriate licenses and permits.
Wildlife Viewing
Fisheating Creek WMA is an excellent place to view wildlife year-round. Wading birds, hawks, osprey and owls are common. White-tailed deer and Osceola turkey are frequently spotted and alligators are prevalent. Large numbers of migratory swallow-tailed kites gather here in late summer. This area is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. Visit the Wildlife page for more information about the area's wildlife.
Hiking and Bicycling
Enjoy year-round hiking and bicycling the WMA. Trails are prone to seasonal flooding; the January through May period offers the driest conditions.
Download trail maps for:
Camping
Primitive camping is permitted year-round throughout the area. For full hook-up RV sites and primitive campsites within the concession-operated Palmdale campground, visit Fisheating Creek Outpost. The campground offers restrooms, showers and a camp store. During established hunting seasons, individuals are encouraged to camp at the Palmdale campground or at designated sites along Fisheating Creek. Weekends and cooler months are the busiest, so plan accordingly.
Paddling
Fisheating Creek meanders through banks lined with cypress and oaks. Expect to see numerous alligators and a variety of birds. Rent a canoe, kayak or SUP in the campground or launch your own from the campground or the Main Street access. Fisheating Creek Outpost offers a livery service with two drop-off points upstream of the campground, creating options for an eight-mile trip (from Burnt Bridge) or a 16-mile trip (From Ingram’s Crossing). Water levels vary widely; check current conditions before planning your paddling trip. Download the Fisheating Creek Paddling Guide for more information.