Ocala Wildlife Management Area

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Parks

Florida

Nearby: Ocala National Forest Marsh Memorial Park

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ocala Wildlife Management Area is a vast protected area of over 380,000 acres in Florida.

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Summary

There are several reasons to visit this area, including its abundant wildlife, diverse habitats, and recreational opportunities such as hunting, fishing, hiking, camping, and birdwatching. Visitors can see many species of animals, including deer, turkeys, alligators, black bears, and various birds of prey.

One of the main points of interest in the Ocala Wildlife Management Area is the Florida National Scenic Trail, which passes through the area. Other notable features include several rivers, springs, and lakes, such as Alexander Springs and Juniper Springs, which offer opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and fishing.

Another interesting fact about the Ocala Wildlife Management Area is that it is home to the southernmost population of red-cockaded woodpeckers, a federally endangered species. The area also has historical significance, as it was once used by Native American tribes and was later a site of Spanish colonization.

The best time of year to visit Ocala Wildlife Management Area depends on personal interests and activities. Spring and fall are generally less hot and humid, making it more comfortable for hiking and camping. However, the summer months offer excellent opportunities for water-based activities and wildlife sightings. Hunting season also varies depending on the species, so visitors should check the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website for specific dates.

Overall, the Ocala Wildlife Management Area provides an excellent opportunity to explore Florida's natural beauty and diverse wildlife. It is a great destination for anyone interested in outdoor activities and conservation.

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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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