Salt Lake Wildlife Management Area

Miles of roads to hike will keep you exploring the rugged Salt Lake WMA all day. Pine flatwoods, scrub, freshwater marshes, lakes and salt flats shelter over 200 bird species. Florida Scrub-Jays are present, thanks to ongoing habitat restoration efforts. Look for them in the scrub at the Bear Bluff Rd entrance off Dairy Rd; hike to the South Lake overlook platform from this entrance to see Purple Gallinule. You may also see Wood Stork, Roseate Spoonbill, Black-crowned Night Heron, Least Bittern and American White Pelicans on and around South and Salt Lake. Watch for breeding birds like Black-necked Stilt, Glossy Ibis, Osprey, Cooper’s Hawk, Hairy Woodpecker, Eastern Bluebird and Indigo Bunting. Shorebird activity can be high in spring, fall and winter, particularly along the brackish Salt Lake and its adjacent salt flats on the northwest side of the WMA. On the main portion of the WMA, vehicles are permitted during hunting dates only. Otherwise access is by foot, bicycle or horseback. Portions of roads may be wet at times. Bring appropriate footwear, plus food, water and sun protection. Restrooms are available at the check station near the main parking area on Arch Road.

Site Information

This Site is Free to Enter

View Seasonal Hunting Information

Managing Agency
FL Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Operational Hours: one-half hour before sunrise until one-half hour after sunset

Size: 5,337 acres

Entrances