Discover the diverse St. Johns River Water Management District lands, learn about their important role and explore all they have to offer.
Hours of operation
Most district lands are open for non-vehicular recreational activities 24-hours per day, 365 days per year. Visitors are encouraged to look for signs posted at individual property entrances to determine if maintenance or construction activities may be occurring or when storms may have made conditions unsafe. Notices are also posted on this website.
Safety on District lands
We want you to enjoy your visit to District conservation lands and also be safe. Because these lands are often remote, wild open spaces, we have a few suggestions.
- Visit this website’s recreation Properties List and Activities. This website features profiles of each individual property where you can download maps, view background information about ecology and land management activities, view photos and a short video highlighting the property. We even offer geo-spatial trail maps that can be downloaded to your device, allowing you to track your location in real time while you enjoy the great outdoors. We also have links for driving directions and announcements regarding land management activities that may result in temporary closures for restoration, prescribed fire or similar activities.
- Plan for your comfort. Before venturing out, be sure to pack plenty of drinking water, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, bug spray and wear comfortable but sturdy shoes. During the summer months, plan your trip during the morning or evening to avoid the heat of the day. Doing so might also increase your chances of seeing wildlife such as deer and turkey.
- Take a restroom break before heading out. Our properties are managed for conservation purposes and provide opportunities for primitive, nature-based recreation. Not all properties have restrooms. Those that do are limited to portable toilets.
- Take your cell phone and check your signal. Make sure you cell phone is fully charged before heading out on the trails. Consider enabling your phone’s location capabilities.
- Know where you are. Make note of the property’s name and 911 address at our parking lot or snap a photo of the sign with your cell phone. If an emergency situation arises, having the property name and address readily available may speed up the response time.
- Take a friend. Share your experience with a partner. You’ll get to spend quality time with a friend and have someone to help if the need arises.
- Tell someone where you are going. Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
- Respect wildlife. Never approach, feed or harass any of the animals you may see on District lands. These are wild animals.
Activities available on district lands
Ramble your way through miles of trails and you’re bound to spot some of the abundant wildlife that thrive on these protected lands.
District land is home to some great fishing with some properties that include handicapped-accessible fishing platforms.
Some district properties offer opportunities for canoeing, air boating and boating, and a few even have boat ramps or launches.
The majority of district lands provide trails that are suitable for cycling or horseback riding. Trail riding is a great way to see a diverse range of natural areas and wildlife.
Some district lands provide opportunities for primitive tent camping. Forego bathrooms and running water for a day or two and live the outdoor experience.
Approximately two-thirds of district land is open for hunting, in designated areas and at specified times of the year.