Crew Wildlife Management Area

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Crew Wildlife Management Area is a 60,000-acre natural paradise located in the state of Florida.


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Summary

It is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to a variety of species, including alligators, panthers, deer, and many bird species. There are several reasons to visit Crew Wildlife Management Area, such as to explore the hiking trails, go birdwatching, or enjoy hunting and fishing.

One of the main attractions of the area is the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, which is home to the largest remaining bald cypress forest in North America. Visitors can take a boardwalk tour through the sanctuary and observe a variety of wildlife, including alligators, otters, and over 200 bird species. Another point of interest is the CREW Marsh Trails, which offer a unique opportunity to explore the wetland habitats and see a variety of plant and animal life.

Interesting facts about Crew Wildlife Management Area include that it is named after the Crew family, who were early settlers in the area and were instrumental in preserving the natural beauty of the land. The area is also the site of ongoing ecological research and restoration efforts, aimed at protecting and preserving the fragile wetland habitats.

The best time of year to visit Crew Wildlife Management Area is during the winter months, from November to March, when the weather is mild and the wildlife is most active. However, it is important to note that hunting and fishing seasons vary throughout the year, so visitors should check the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website before planning their trip.

       

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Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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